Although true, when an issue pops up, it sucks since most parts you have to order on either rock auto (which is fine) or Amazon. Also the common issues are timing or valve related which is terrifying. I miss mine so much. It was such a badass truck. But the 8k in just parts at the cheapest. Having to take the engine to a machine shop, it just made sense to get rid of it.
When I was growing up I was around a lot of muscle car guys. They kind of laughed at me when I told them that this truck would be a revered classic along with the toyota Hi-lux/pickup/pre tundra. Look who's laughing now. hah. Really love these little trucks. :)
If they made the hardbody again I would buy one in a heartbeat. I put almost 400,000 miles on my 97 two wheel drive and put that thing just about anywhere 4x4's went and even pulled a few stuck trucks out and only got pulled out once. I miss that truck.
@@zacariasblanco9738 I agree, it would have to be the same from wheels up. The frontier that replaced it was never as good. The hardbody was the last of the datsan engendered trucks. The 97 I had was only available in four cylinders that year because they couldn't get the six cylinder to meet California standards. But the six cylinder was junk anyway as it's timing belt had to be replaced every sixty thousand miles. The timing chain in mine outlasted the truck and I abused the hell out of the truck. It was off road in Florida swamps, spent four years in snow and ice then brutal hot summers. Hauled enough tools and materials to run the commercial electrician job I did. If not for ethenol I would still have that truck, it eventually ate all the seals up that weren't designed for it. It's now in Mexico according to the guy who bought it, they were going to completely rebuild the engine. Hell it was still on the factory clutch when it quit running.
@@JamesSmullins yeah mi oem alternator lasted 20 years lol they great vehicles and the v6 engine i guess is a love hate thing i dont own one but knew someone that did and the distributor gave problems as soon as he baught it was a 2000 frontier and not a big of fan myself il stay 2.4 lol
The most underrated truck out there. Everyone flocks to the old Toyota pickups and shells out big bucks, but these are just as good, if not better, at half the price. Give me one of these any day.
@@twoeightythreez If you decide to get one, any year model is good 1986-1997. I'm driving my dad's right now, that he bought brand new in 1996 off the lot with close to 500k on the dial. He keeps it as a spare and to do work with it pulling a lawn equipment trailer. These have no quit in them. as long as you keep the maintenance up.
I've owned a couple Nissan D21 Hardbody's, a 93 & a 97. Both were regular cab, 2wd 4 cyl 5 spd manual. AWESOME trucks. If they still sold these in the US I'd buy one in a heartbeat. I prefer a truly affordable, simple mid-size truck, not what is sold here in the US today.
But new nissan titan not many sell and deals available also nissan frontier new redesign finally or buy Mitsubishi in mexico transport to usa or get toyota helix
I have a 1986 1/2 D21 that I owned since new. It has 378K miles now and is still my daily driver - original Z24i engine and 5spd manual transmission. The only thing I don't do myself when it comes to maintaining/fixing my truck is changing the clutch (on third clutch now). I also own an ES300, a G35, a Sequoia, an S2000 and a WD21 but the Hardbody is my most reliable car.
You forgot tan. I miss GREEN interiors... they were SO striking... Remember the green, 70's Mustang grande, that Gas Monkey Garage did? The interior was green, but multiple shades? Rich Rawlings hated that interior, I loved it!
@@ClinicalDox My Hardbody is light metallic blue with light, medium, and dark blue interior... I think it looks pretty cool... Nowhere near as obnoxious as the maroon/red
I have one. I bought it 15 years ago for $750. Painted it about 12 years ago and am getting it painted tomorrow. The speedometer stopped working at 343,663 4 years ago. I drive it at least 4 days a week. I will send pics/video after it is painted and new bumpers are installed.
Sweet! My grandad had a 91’ Nissan Hardbody 4cyl 4x4! He bought it used for $3,000 in 2004. It had a lift and we towed everything with it. Boats, trailers with lawnmowers and all sorts of other stuff. It had a stick shift, which is what I learned how to drive on. Amazing truck. It had everything we wanted, and nothing we didnt!
My very first vehicle was a 1997 Nissan Hardbody. I miss that truck every day. It was a TOUGH truck. I had it lowered down and it was a blast to drive!
I worked at a Nissan dealership back when those trucks were new! I did the PDI before the were delivered to the customer. I’d love to own that handsome specimen!
I had 2 with the 4cylinder. Most reliable little things ever! Hauled so many things that it said it wasn't meant to and it carried it with ease. I own a tacoma now but I will always have love for these hard bodies.
I miss my hard body so much. For me, it was unreliable, likely due to the previous owner, likely letting it sit, or running it hard only. I bought it with 93k miles on it in 2016, and it was a 93. I miss it because it was so easy to work on, but having to essentially rebuild the engine while being in high school, and needing a vehicle, it made sense to get rid of it. I wish I kept it. When I can afford it. I will get a new hard body as a project vehicle and never let it die. If it means converting it fully electric (if that becomes a mandatory thing) i absolutely will. The frame alone is worth the trouble. And to me, the body style is timeless. Why? It shows the time when Nissan was to be taken seriously for their trucks. Now the frontier and titan, just aren't the same anymore. Fortunately Toyota kept to their roots of high quality. Although the modern ones do have some issues.
Pops had a 93 with the OPTIONAL passenger side rearview mirror. No A/C, no Heater, No radio, No power windows, no power locks, no power mirrors. Just a 4-cyl engine, a 5-speed manual transmission (dad even said he'd have gotten the 4-speed if they had it. because he never uses over drive anyway), a rear axle, some springs, a bench, and a bed. I learned how to drive on it initially as a teenager before he gave it to my cousin who used it for work until he moved away from Hawaii. I had hoped that my dad would let me have it when I turned 15 and got my provisional license, but alas that day never came.
My first vehicle was 89 hard body king cab sev6 5spd manual 4x4. Had 31x10.5 at and Nissan factory Baja off road tires. Brush guard with warn 8k winch. Awesome truck, offroad beast. 4L was granny low, no clutch needed. I learned to drive that truck in 4 low on my grandfather's farm. I felt like a king 🤴 at 11yr old. Drove it til 11th grade and wanted something different. Sure wish I had kept it around. Drive train was bullet proof. Bodies tended to rust near Salt. Electonic switches were not awesome, but the trucks were so tough. Built like tractors.
Had a 91 hardbody through high school and drove the snot out of it till I was around 23, brakes and one clutch, fan belts, purchased for 1k, sold for 1k 5 years later. I would load the bed with 2 tons of stone, paver, and so on, no problems. Had a 92 or 93 king cab manual, no problems, sold it to a good buddy
I saw the video on the new pickup. I have to say, I am just old school. I would take the old hardbody all-day over the new one! Very cool review! Keep up the great work Kase and Andre!
i feel that way about all trucks, especially at the current price tag. Who wants to spend 35K+ on trucks not designed to last 20 years with all those electronics
I had a 1987 Pathfinder (also built on the Hardbody platform). I would give anything to have it back. That two-door with those triangle windows was so cool.
My first car was 1988 Pathfinder SE 4x4. I got it with 150k miles and sold it with 200k for $800. it's last 50k miles with me were probably equivalent to 200k typical miles. I put that thing through so much and it never broke. I loved that truck. Unfortunately, the Midwest winters/salt is what prompted sale as the floor boards were gone. I would purchase another one in good condition in a heart beat.
the pathfinder is wider not noticeable until you swap bumpers and the pathy had rear coil springs suspension and the d21 came with Leaf type springs there are some differences within the pickups early d21 had a dual spark plug engine the napz Z24 TBI INJECTION till 1990 when they went with fuel injection single sparkplug pretty much in basic terms the first ones had an electronic carburetor just like the chevy Silverado of the same era and suspension parts are not same size engine changes meant suspension specs changed as well lol 20 years driving a d21 I learned something lol be safe
I love the 93 short bed single short cabs. I had one stolen, then replaced it with a van before recovered and just let it go. I have looking hard to find another like it. It had some smooth body curves, especially with wider tires and old fashion chrome rims, I miss that truck so much.
Buying a 1990 Nissan 4x4 4cyl hardbody was my first venture into buying an import after being fed up with my previous 2 Chevy S-10's. (and wife's Cavalier, Buick etc...) I torture tested my Nissan truck so hard that my die-hard Ford cousin ditched his F150 and went out and purchased a Nissan himself. Once the 2022 Frontier becomes available I will be taking it for a test drive!
man this brings back memories. I had a 94 as my high school vehicle (my first vehicle) and it was exactly like this, red, extended cab, super tough. 4 cyl, auto, just a tough little truck with good AC.
I had a 91 Hardbody. It said Hustler on the tailgate. Regular cab with a 5 speed manual. I had it for 10 years, loved it!!! Never gave me any trouble....ever!
I used to own a 91' Hardbody 4x4 lifted with 31" mudder tires. It was reliable, fun and never got stuck. I drove it up the mountains in WA state, the beaches and the snow. It was the 4 cylinder with 193k miles and it did not have any power seat, mirrors, AC or power steering. It was stolen from me years ago. I would like to buy another one, one of these days... Great video. 😎👍
I saw this hiding behind the 2022 in your walk around video. Thanks for giving this truck the same treatment. I had two 4x4 Hardbodies, one '86.5 and one '90. Great trucks!
When I turned 16 in 2005, my very first vehicle was a 1985 Nissan 720 pickup with the 3-speed automatic that I inherited from my grandpa. It wasn't exactly the most comfortable or powerful vehicle in my high school parking lot, but it was probably the most reliable vehicle I've ever owned, it never once left me stranded in almost 4 years of ownership. I even used it for delivering Chinese food at my first job. It was very unique looking too, with a camper shell on the bed and a giant 7 foot CB antenna on the right rear bumper, there was no mistaking my truck for anyone else's 😂
The first truck I ever owned was a 1986-1/2 XE King cab, 4x4 with a 5 speed and 4 cylinder. Bought if off the dealer lot and I think I paid around $9500 out the door and that included air conditioning which I think was a dealer installed option when they first came out. I kept it for 16 years and put about 125k miles on it and the only thing it ever needed was a water pump at 120k miles. I wish I still had it.
Too bad they don't make a truck like this anymore. I bought a new one in 1988 working part time while I was in highschool because they were affordable and reliable. There is no way a high school kid working part time could afford the new 2022 Nissan Frontier. Those old Hardbody trucks were awesome. Mine was regular cab 2wd with manual transmission. No frills but was perfect for me
I had a 95 XE V6. My wife sat in the back seat with our newborn in the front with a car seat. Once kid number 2 was on the way the truck had to go. I sold it at dealer auction, got a stupid amount for it. I was distressed I even went out in the lot to find it and drove it one more time.
This truck is from the (pre-renault) partnership. This was when Nissan made bulletproof Engines and Transmissions. This is when Nissan introduced and raced the 4x4 Desert Runner.
They must STILL be making some bulletproof stuff. These guys featured a 2007 Frontier that went a million miles on the original drive train. Nissan gave the guy a new truck.
@@TIJoe-te9qu Okay, I found the TFL video on the 1 million mile frontier. Yeah, that's a 2007 4 cylinder 2.5L with a 5-speed manual transmission. That configuration is still the same powertrain Nissan has used since the 1990s. Other than the body style, that 2007 truck has nothing to do with Renault. Their decision-making came with the six cylinders.
@@theylied1776 That's a cool video. And many claim that only a Toyota can go the distance. I don't think Brian Murphy got a freak truck or anything like that. It seems the bad CVT rap got spread to every Nissan somehow. Nissan partnered with Renault in 1999, so I don't know how they weren't involved in the 2007 D23 Frontier. That model debuted in 2005, after the D22, which replaced the D21 in 1998. On powertrains, there were three 4 cylinders. The Z24 like I have was used in the 80s, then the KA24 was the one used in the 90s, not the Altima 2.5 that is in the truck in the video. The 2.5 was only used in the D23 starting in 2005. So it was not their 90s engine. The 5 speed, however, used the same design since the 70s. Mine is still stock. It also was used in the Z cars. Awesome gearbox. Nissan always had a V6 in the trucks, except for smog issues in the late 90s. The early VG30 Z car engine was very reliable. The later 4.0 V6 in the D23, which ran all the way until 2020, is also well-known to be very durable and powerful, though MPG is not too great. The later 5 and 6 speeds also are not known for trouble. Even the 5 speed automatic is actually solid too. Unfortunately, the early D23 automatics had bad Calsonic radiators, which could go bad and mix coolant into the trans. The trans itself was not the problem. The new 3.8 is too fresh to say, but its receiving positive feedback. Nissan has built nothing but strong V6 engines, so chances are it will be solid. The Mercedes clone 9-speed has had a recall for a parking issue. I don't know the results yet. Interestingly, Datsun had some Mercedes DNA since the sixties. When Nissan bought Prince, a Mercedes-licensed engine came with it. This became the famous L-series found in the 510, Z, and the trucks. That basic block is the same one in my 1987 D21. Like the SBC of Japan. My point is that Nissan has ALWAYS had a reputation for bulletproof truck running gear. There has not really been one anchor in 50 years. The only glitches I've ever heard of are the Calsonic radiator issue, and the parking pawl in the new one. The issue with the CVT in cars is unfortunate, but it never affected the engines or any of the pickups. Sorry for the long history lesson. I've had Nissan since before I got a license, so I get carried away.
@@TIJoe-te9qu let me explain this, I have been rebuilding Datsun since I was 16. I raced amateur rally in a modified 1986 Nissan Pathfinder with a 2.4L 5 speed manual. That's how I know Renault didn't have anything to do with the 2.5L frontier. It's basically the same engine that Nissan used for 18 years! Anyone that's ever rebuilt a Datsun Nissan engine knows this to be true. You can find a variation of that frontier V6 in Renault, Citron, Peugeot. Renault is about shared automotive platforms. What they also call (parts bin manufacturing). Also, the CVT is defect is not a bad rap. Nissan has had to pay out almost 900 million due to that. Nissan North America almost went bankrupt in 2019 due to the 3 class action lawsuits. You can look this fact after yourself, the Japanese government became so concerned with Nissan going bankrupt they had the CEO of Renault, Carlos Ghosn, arrested in 2019 and try to force a merger between Honda and Nissan. The Japanese government was going to extend an interest-free loan to Honda to buy the shares back from Renault. After the third meeting with Nissan executives, the CEO of Honda informed the Japanese government... we cannot fix the internal problems at Nissan caused by Carlos Ghosn. We will not be merging with Nissan.
@@TIJoe-te9qu yeah, I had a 2007 Frontier V6. The only reliable thing on that truck was the six-speed Jatco transmission. When it comes to manual transmissions, Jatco makes some of the best in the world. They're gearing is second to none. The timing chains on those engines go out or right around 150,000 miles. I changed my oil right around 3,500 miles, and I had to put at least two timing chains on that Frontier. Their water pumps are good though.
Had a ‘93 4 cyl standard. Bought new for under $7k. No radio, AC and the rear bumper was an option. I had to buy an aftermarket rear bumper just to have a bumper! Greatest vehicle I have ever owned and I miss it all the time.
Yep I bought mine brand new in February of 86 for $7,000 only option I wanted back bumper $250 No radio or AC the factory radio was $300 I put a nice Kenwood stereo a week later for half, waited a few years then had AC installed $600 that was half of what dealership cost, amazingly I’m still driving today runs great
Here in México we get the heck out of this trucks and they still get the job done,i am Talking about trucks with over 300,000 kms and carry 1.5 ton,s or more
My cousin had one, just like that. Though he turned into into a street cruiser, slammed it down to the frame, with the little 4 cylinder under the hood. Manual transmission, with a wicked candy apple coating on a subtle grey paintjob. With the jump seats in the back, he removed them and fit a giant subwoofer in it. Even though it felt like we were on the ground, the leather interior was so nice to sit in. The stereo put out so much power, he had to put in an Optima 6 pack battery and a capacitor to keep from blowing up batteries, lol. He drove it everywhere, and it showed, with over 300 000 KMs.
Be sure to look under the plastic bed liner. The bed rails har factory pop-up tie point to secure stuff in the bed. This feature was only present in the SE model like the one you have. It also has a flip down some light that folds down to illuminate the cargo area.
I've got a 1992 D21 base model regular cab that I was given to by my grandfather as my first vehicle when I was a teenager, it had 129,000 miles on it. I never understood the appeal of a truck until owning one as my first vehicle, fishing trips, moving, late-night in the bed under the stars, pulling out stuck friends and family, bringing home my first born son. It's been 10 years and another 100,000 miles, and now I can't imagine my life without a my truck
I had a very rare 1986 Nissan Dually with a flatbed. You used to be able to order the Hardbody truck as a "cab + chassis" (the 720 models also). I wish I had never gotten rid of that truck.
97 model. 228k and still going strong but having a harder and harder time getting it smogged. Not because of emissions but the blasted obd on this thing which has been a pain since day 1 getting past the drive cycle phase. As much as I like it, I'd like to replace it but with what? There's only a couple trucks on the market that even offer manual tran, and most truck beds are shorter than mine. Also, I just watched the 'grand tour', season 2, ep 11. Clarkson on the show said he got a 'hardbody', and he makes jokes about it throughout the episode, but one look, and I don't think so. I think it's a 2002 frontier. For a show that prides itself on motor knowledge that's a pretty big gaffe.
My 95 Hardbody 4x4 is cherry and bomb proof. The 67” width makes it a perfect truck for exploration - can get into places without damage that wider trucks can’t. It also came stock with 4.37 gears, giving it a great crawl ratio. These have some design issues that killed it as a cult vehicle, such as the single pivot lower suspension that uses a tension rod for the second pivot. Toyota’s of the same year were double wishbone, making them superior for off-road and durability. But this truck has never left me stranded - it has started every single time I turn the key since the day I bought it.
Oh, and the crash ratings are not just abysmal, they’re horrifying. Would never want to roll or be in any kind of head on or side impact collision. The videos of the tests are a riot.
I had a '90 that a took all through the woods. Like you said the width was perfect for narrow trails. I spun a bearing in that truck trying to rock it out of the mud. I was young and stupid then and I abused that truck badly. Full rpm in first, then slam it into reverse and dump the clutch to redline, repeat until free. I loved that truck and wish I still had it, though it's been like 15 years now.
I have a 96 hardbody with a pathfinder front conversion ! It is an xe extra cab with power windows and mirrors. It has been lowered 2,4 and has the 15 inch pathfinder rims. I love my truck , I’ve had it for about 7 years and it has 200k miles plus.
I've got an '87 that looks identical. Maroon SE-V6 with a 5 speed manual and a maroon interior. Mine has 460k miles though. Engine's all original, never been rebuilt. Valve covers and oil pan have never been off. Had it since new. Done the timing belt twice, clutch 3 times. The thing I like the most... Gauges. It has actual gauges for oil pressure, volts, coolant temp, and fuel. The fuel gauge is actually two gauges. It has one for 1/4 to full and has another gauge just for the last 1/4 tank.
I used to owned one. 88 it was amazing. Best truck I have ever owned. I have a Nissan Titan now. I'm actually looking for a hard body. But they are almost impossible to find. Love this video. I felt their passion for the truck.. I
My grandpa had a red hardbody that he bought new in ‘88. Regular cab, manual, 4 cylinder, a vinyl bench seat and a matching topper over the bed. They were great for what they were, but VERY basic and the rust got to it pretty bad within 5 years or so. Very cool to see one so clean, non-existent here in the Midwest anymore.
My dad had this truck in white in the late 90s to early 2000s. I loved that truck and called it the white monster because it was a bit rusty. I drove it in high school and took it deer hunting off road. Road tripped to New York from Ohio. Got a kiss from a girl i had a crush on. Lots of memories. Died ar 330k miles. It liked to blow tie rods. The radio wasn't great but worked but you didn't need much when you were listening to Dire Straits on cassette. The jump seats were nice in a pinch, we even had four of us in there which was me and two teenage brothers and our dad, drive two and half hours on a small road trip. The engine sound really takes me back. The tires also sucked but it did okay in the snow when you went out, locked the hubs manually, and switched to 4 low.
If you can find one with the TD27 turbo diesel, that's the bee's knees. That and the TD42 from the Safari/Patrol were designed and built for Nissan by UD Trucks. Classic 8 valve, pushrod, gear driven cam, all mechanical design.
We use to own the 2 door pathfinder version of this truck, same color, automatic, same dash, and everything. It had almost 300k on the odometer. It did 3 trips to Mexico at about 5000 miles round trip for each.
And my daily driver is the last of the compact pick up trucks, a Ford Ranger. There are a lot of old compact pickup trucks on the road still. I've seen everything from old Rangers, to Toyotas, to the occasional Datsun where I live.
I bought a new 1986 1/2 Hardbody, 4cyl, standard cab, black. Converted to a manual tilt-bed (VW hood latches in rear wheel well to hold it down, chrome steel rod to hold it in raised position, short 2x4s for cruising position), rear adjustable air shocks, lowered 2" front/rear, American Racing Outlaw II wheels, 25560r15 rear/19570r14 front tires, matching rear tire/wheel spare, 1975 Corvette bucket seats, sunroof, sound system, bed carpet system held in with magnets, chrome traction bars. Took home a few trophies from truck shows. Traded it in for a new 1989 IROC-Z, which spent two years on jacketstands while I polished all of the engine aluminum pieces, Edlebrock Tri-Y headers, stainless cat-back and more (it also took home trophies). Wish I still had those vehicles. Fair winds and following seas to all.
I still love the hardbodies! Such cool looking trucks and body lines. I fell in love with em in 86 when 1st released and right at the starting to getting my license. I bought a brand new 89 standard cab, bare bones, power nothing, no AC, but a great price for a brand new 4x4 truck for a 18 yr old kid. Recently graduated HS and needed a reliable truck for work (no more air cooled V Dubs). Lifted it, big 35" tires, commuted and off roaded it. Worked great in the snow. Liked the 88 and 89 HBs best, they had flush headlights. Had the 8 plug NAPS Z 4 cyl, manual trans and 4wd. Prefered that motor over the later 90+ KA motor. The early V6 was a let down in these trucks. I got my moneys worth outta my 89! I eventually sold it in 2004 as it was a single cab and I was no longer interested in anything other than a extra cab truck to drive. It had somewhere over 150 k when I sold it with no issues. The coolest thing? I got a pic in a recent text from a longtime friend of my old truck. Still 2nd owner and driving it! My friend happened to run into him at a gas station and recognized it. 2nd owner still had nothing but good things to say about it! Funny thing is, I was certain the guy I sold it to was going to wreck it in a few months. It still looks good and he has taken off the shell and carpet kit.
1990 was the last year for those long armrests on the door. However, the D21 was not the original pickup if you remember the Datsun 620 and 720. In 1986 1/2 there were two trucks, the 720 and the Nissan 1986 1/2 was made in Tennessee. I have one of these, V6, King Cab, 6' bed, 5-speed manual, Air/Co, power windows and locks, two fuel tank gauges, 122K miles. No rust.
That was my first truck when I was 16 but it was green, you wouldn't think but these little trucks, they really do rip! That ass-end is so lite it just slides everywhere if you get on it! Thinking about getting another one, fun little play toys forsure!
I own a 92 se6 extended cab long bed with 111000 on it. It was roughly treated and wrecked at some point so it has a few issues but..no rust..runs good.
Had a 1990 long bed 4 wheel drive Manual version of this truck.. I still have found memories of that little Tank of a truck.. Drove it well past 200,000 before giving it up.. Still miss it 😍
I currently have a 90 pathfinder 4x4 v6 5 speed with over 250,000 mi. hauls my tools to the job site every day, I take it camping and to the desert all the time, really is a great truck. and it's got AC and cruise control, seats are comfortable. it's actually a pretty nice place to be on long trips.
A friend of mine had a 1989 Nissan pickup with the extended cab. I'm about 6'4'' and remember riding in the rear jump seat area...didn't want to be there for very long. He got his truck after graduating from college and drove it all over the country. His was four cylinder with a manual and sold it after owning it for almost 10 years. The cab and frame were solid but the box pretty much rusted to nothing. I remember he had no problems selling it and got a pretty good price for it.
Just found one ,1997, for 3500 from original owner. Well preserved. Love and hate it! Tried to change the rotors. It was a nightmare! Water pump started leaking. That was a pretty easy fix. Love that I can take it anywhere and will pretty much fit anywhere.
My grandfather has a facelifted single cab, short box 4wd manual that he uses for hunting and he loves it. Over 200k miles, and might be rusty as I’ll get out, but he still loves it
I had an 89 Hardbody King Cab I bought new. Dark blue, 4 cyl, 5 speed manual. That little truck was a beast. I drove it hard, worked it hard and it just kept running along. I put about 70k miles on it in the 3 years I had it. Sold it to a friends dad who drove it for years.
I’ve had an 86, I’ve got a 96 now and I got compliments all the time and offers to sell it, no thank you! Best 5 speed perfect little truck. I will never get rid of it. Btw mine has 271,000 on it & when I sold my 86 it had 350,000 on it and the guy still drives it today, that’s been over 5 years ago.
I’m still driving mine it’s a 1986.5 so first model of Hardbody D21 bought in brand new February 86 $7000 dollars didn’t have radio or Air-condition at time but I installed later, only option was back bumper $250 that I wanted, now has over 400,000 miles on it nothing done to motor runs great best thing I have ever purchased. It’s considered family
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I love seeing classics like this. Keep them coming!
Agree
Hardbody is one of the best little trucks EVER made
I swear I still these little trucks hauling stuff to this day.
The hardbody is criminally underrated.
Although true, when an issue pops up, it sucks since most parts you have to order on either rock auto (which is fine) or Amazon. Also the common issues are timing or valve related which is terrifying.
I miss mine so much. It was such a badass truck. But the 8k in just parts at the cheapest. Having to take the engine to a machine shop, it just made sense to get rid of it.
When I was growing up I was around a lot of muscle car guys. They kind of laughed at me when I told them that this truck would be a revered classic along with the toyota Hi-lux/pickup/pre tundra. Look who's laughing now. hah. Really love these little trucks. :)
@@DeathProductions200 what happened to it? just curious
If they made the hardbody again I would buy one in a heartbeat.
I put almost 400,000 miles on my 97 two wheel drive and put that thing just about anywhere 4x4's went and even pulled a few stuck trucks out and only got pulled out once.
I miss that truck.
I doubt they will not the same nissan since 2000 is all about $$$ now quality manufacturing is long gone nissans now are rebadged
@@zacariasblanco9738 I agree, it would have to be the same from wheels up. The frontier that replaced it was never as good.
The hardbody was the last of the datsan engendered trucks. The 97 I had was only available in four cylinders that year because they couldn't get the six cylinder to meet California standards.
But the six cylinder was junk anyway as it's timing belt had to be replaced every sixty thousand miles. The timing chain in mine outlasted the truck and I abused the hell out of the truck. It was off road in Florida swamps, spent four years in snow and ice then brutal hot summers. Hauled enough tools and materials to run the commercial electrician job I did.
If not for ethenol I would still have that truck, it eventually ate all the seals up that weren't designed for it. It's now in Mexico according to the guy who bought it, they were going to completely rebuild the engine. Hell it was still on the factory clutch when it quit running.
@@JamesSmullins yeah mi oem alternator lasted 20 years lol they great vehicles and the v6 engine i guess is a love hate thing i dont own one but knew someone that did and the distributor gave problems as soon as he baught it was a 2000 frontier and not a big of fan myself il stay 2.4 lol
they still sell them new in some countries. at least they did a few years ago
@@cornholio114 Can you go into some more detail on this? It sounds pretty interesting.
Back home in Iraq my father had one, 1989 with 4 doors, 4 cyl and automatic transmissions.
It was very reliable vehicle.
Regards 👍
Lucky! We didn't get the 4 doors in the US.
wow thats cool i thought the 4 doors were a diesel only model.
4 door would be cool
Mine has half a million miles, just drove it to Yosemite last month 💯
The most underrated truck out there. Everyone flocks to the old Toyota pickups and shells out big bucks, but these are just as good, if not better, at half the price. Give me one of these any day.
These were 95% as good as a Toyota at HALF the price
@@twoeightythreez yes👍
@@twoeightythreez If you decide to get one, any year model is good 1986-1997. I'm driving my dad's right now, that he bought brand new in 1996 off the lot with close to 500k on the dial. He keeps it as a spare and to do work with it pulling a lawn equipment trailer. These have no quit in them. as long as you keep the maintenance up.
I've owned a couple Nissan D21 Hardbody's, a 93 & a 97. Both were regular cab, 2wd 4 cyl 5 spd manual. AWESOME trucks. If they still sold these in the US I'd buy one in a heartbeat. I prefer a truly affordable, simple mid-size truck, not what is sold here in the US today.
But new nissan titan not many sell and deals available also nissan frontier new redesign finally or buy Mitsubishi in mexico transport to usa or get toyota helix
Well then get a Nissan Frontier 4 cyl 5 speed.
Are older trucks more difficult to drive?
I’ve been waiting so long for this my grandpa has a 1997 Nissan Hardbody 4x4 It’s a maroon Red with a manual transmission and. Manual locking hubs
and you probably have rear lsd differential if is v6 equipped
@@zacariasblanco9738 it’s a 4 cylinder it’s a XE
@@dirkwalker7504 o ok either way i bet gramps loves his d21 glad you do too they great trucks
I have a 1986 1/2 D21 that I owned since new. It has 378K miles now and is still my daily driver - original Z24i engine and 5spd manual transmission. The only thing I don't do myself when it comes to maintaining/fixing my truck is changing the clutch (on third clutch now). I also own an ES300, a G35, a Sequoia, an S2000 and a WD21 but the Hardbody is my most reliable car.
Back when you could get interiors in colors other than black or gray.
And before we realized that just because you can doesn’t mean you should
You forgot tan. I miss GREEN interiors... they were SO striking... Remember the green, 70's Mustang grande, that Gas Monkey Garage did? The interior was green, but multiple shades? Rich Rawlings hated that interior, I loved it!
I have a 1993 Nissan
D 21 5 speed. 4cyl. with over 257,000 miles and it still runs Great! 👍
@@alancovent6776 330,000 on mine
@@ClinicalDox My Hardbody is light metallic blue with light, medium, and dark blue interior... I think it looks pretty cool... Nowhere near as obnoxious as the maroon/red
I drove one of these in high school. Such good times. Last night I had a dream I still had it, and now I miss it so bad.
I have one. I bought it 15 years ago for $750. Painted it about 12 years ago and am getting it painted tomorrow. The speedometer stopped working at 343,663 4 years ago. I drive it at least 4 days a week. I will send pics/video after it is painted and new bumpers are installed.
Sweet! My grandad had a 91’ Nissan Hardbody 4cyl 4x4! He bought it used for $3,000 in 2004. It had a lift and we towed everything with it. Boats, trailers with lawnmowers and all sorts of other stuff.
It had a stick shift, which is what I learned how to drive on. Amazing truck. It had everything we wanted, and nothing we didnt!
that truck is 3k today lol
@Luke lmao now they're 4 at least
These were some of the toughest trucks ever built, I still have my 1990 4x4 that ive owned since 1997, its a beast and I love it
My very first vehicle was a 1997 Nissan Hardbody. I miss that truck every day. It was a TOUGH truck. I had it lowered down and it was a blast to drive!
I purchased my father's 1996 King Cab back in 1999. 170k miles later it still runs and drives great. Give it a good wash and it looks like new.
I worked at a Nissan dealership back when those trucks were new! I did the PDI before the were delivered to the customer. I’d love to own that handsome specimen!
I had 2 with the 4cylinder. Most reliable little things ever! Hauled so many things that it said it wasn't meant to and it carried it with ease. I own a tacoma now but I will always have love for these hard bodies.
I miss my hard body so much. For me, it was unreliable, likely due to the previous owner, likely letting it sit, or running it hard only. I bought it with 93k miles on it in 2016, and it was a 93. I miss it because it was so easy to work on, but having to essentially rebuild the engine while being in high school, and needing a vehicle, it made sense to get rid of it.
I wish I kept it. When I can afford it. I will get a new hard body as a project vehicle and never let it die. If it means converting it fully electric (if that becomes a mandatory thing) i absolutely will. The frame alone is worth the trouble.
And to me, the body style is timeless. Why? It shows the time when Nissan was to be taken seriously for their trucks. Now the frontier and titan, just aren't the same anymore. Fortunately Toyota kept to their roots of high quality. Although the modern ones do have some issues.
You do know that the Hardbodys could tow up to 3500# with the 4cyl single cab.
The little 2.4l in the later versions had 134hp/154lb of torque
My dad had one of these...never did any maintenance...never changed the oil...ran like a dream regardless. They don't make em like they used to
Pops had a 93 with the OPTIONAL passenger side rearview mirror. No A/C, no Heater, No radio, No power windows, no power locks, no power mirrors. Just a 4-cyl engine, a 5-speed manual transmission (dad even said he'd have gotten the 4-speed if they had it. because he never uses over drive anyway), a rear axle, some springs, a bench, and a bed. I learned how to drive on it initially as a teenager before he gave it to my cousin who used it for work until he moved away from Hawaii. I had hoped that my dad would let me have it when I turned 15 and got my provisional license, but alas that day never came.
My first vehicle was 89 hard body king cab sev6 5spd manual 4x4. Had 31x10.5 at and Nissan factory Baja off road tires. Brush guard with warn 8k winch. Awesome truck, offroad beast. 4L was granny low, no clutch needed. I learned to drive that truck in 4 low on my grandfather's farm. I felt like a king 🤴 at 11yr old. Drove it til 11th grade and wanted something different. Sure wish I had kept it around. Drive train was bullet proof. Bodies tended to rust near Salt. Electonic switches were not awesome, but the trucks were so tough. Built like tractors.
I had a 1987 like this and I drove it for 28 years. Sold it still running and in pretty good shape.
So nice. A proper little truck. Simple. Reliable. Would love to own one.
Had a 91 hardbody through high school and drove the snot out of it till I was around 23, brakes and one clutch, fan belts, purchased for 1k, sold for 1k 5 years later. I would load the bed with 2 tons of stone, paver, and so on, no problems. Had a 92 or 93 king cab manual, no problems, sold it to a good buddy
I saw the video on the new pickup. I have to say, I am just old school. I would take the old hardbody
all-day over the new one! Very cool review! Keep up the great work Kase and Andre!
i feel that way about all trucks, especially at the current price tag. Who wants to spend 35K+ on trucks not designed to last 20 years with all those electronics
I had a 1987 Pathfinder (also built on the Hardbody platform). I would give anything to have it back. That two-door with those triangle windows was so cool.
My first car was 1988 Pathfinder SE 4x4. I got it with 150k miles and sold it with 200k for $800. it's last 50k miles with me were probably equivalent to 200k typical miles. I put that thing through so much and it never broke. I loved that truck. Unfortunately, the Midwest winters/salt is what prompted sale as the floor boards were gone. I would purchase another one in good condition in a heart beat.
the pathfinder is wider not noticeable until you swap bumpers and the pathy had rear coil springs suspension and the d21 came with Leaf type springs there are some differences within the pickups early d21 had a dual spark plug engine the napz Z24 TBI INJECTION till 1990 when they went with fuel injection single sparkplug pretty much in basic terms the first ones had an electronic carburetor just like the chevy Silverado of the same era and suspension parts are not same size engine changes meant suspension specs changed as well lol 20 years driving a d21 I learned something lol be safe
Yessir hardbodys are some of the best truxks ever
I had the pathfinder version of this and loved it.
I love the 93 short bed single short cabs. I had one stolen, then replaced it with a van before recovered and just let it go. I have looking hard to find another like it. It had some smooth body curves, especially with wider tires and old fashion chrome rims, I miss that truck so much.
I HAVE AN ORIGINAL 1993 V6 4X4 WITH 94,000 ORIGINAL MILES.
Buying a 1990 Nissan 4x4 4cyl hardbody was my first venture into buying an import after being fed up with my previous 2 Chevy S-10's. (and wife's Cavalier, Buick etc...) I torture tested my Nissan truck so hard that my die-hard Ford cousin ditched his F150 and went out and purchased a Nissan himself. Once the 2022 Frontier becomes available I will be taking it for a test drive!
Remember when i rode around in my dads red 5 speed 4x4 king kab. Man he loved that truck!
man this brings back memories. I had a 94 as my high school vehicle (my first vehicle) and it was exactly like this, red, extended cab, super tough. 4 cyl, auto, just a tough little truck with good AC.
I had a 91 Hardbody. It said Hustler on the tailgate. Regular cab with a 5 speed manual. I had it for 10 years, loved it!!!
Never gave me any trouble....ever!
I used to own a 91' Hardbody 4x4 lifted with 31" mudder tires. It was reliable, fun and never got stuck. I drove it up the mountains in WA state, the beaches and the snow. It was the 4 cylinder with 193k miles and it did not have any power seat, mirrors, AC or power steering. It was stolen from me years ago. I would like to buy another one, one of these days... Great video. 😎👍
I saw this hiding behind the 2022 in your walk around video. Thanks for giving this truck the same treatment. I had two 4x4 Hardbodies, one '86.5 and one '90. Great trucks!
When I turned 16 in 2005, my very first vehicle was a 1985 Nissan 720 pickup with the 3-speed automatic that I inherited from my grandpa. It wasn't exactly the most comfortable or powerful vehicle in my high school parking lot, but it was probably the most reliable vehicle I've ever owned, it never once left me stranded in almost 4 years of ownership. I even used it for delivering Chinese food at my first job. It was very unique looking too, with a camper shell on the bed and a giant 7 foot CB antenna on the right rear bumper, there was no mistaking my truck for anyone else's 😂
I’ve got a 93 5 speed 4x4 love it and would like to see you guys do more videos on the Nissan Hardbody
WOW!!!! your doing one of my favorite trucks i love the classic hardbody nissans
The first truck I ever owned was a 1986-1/2 XE King cab, 4x4 with a 5 speed and 4 cylinder. Bought if off the dealer lot and I think I paid around $9500 out the door and that included air conditioning which I think was a dealer installed option when they first came out. I kept it for 16 years and put about 125k miles on it and the only thing it ever needed was a water pump at 120k miles. I wish I still had it.
One of the best trucks ever made if you ask me
The KA24 is a tough motor.
I love these trucks, seeing it brings back memories from my childhood.
Dandy older truck, I can remember, fondly, my early 80's era model 710 DATSUN King Cab, pick up. What a great one that was.
My Dad had a 93 kingcab, with 4 banger and 5 speed. Great little truck. Thanks for the walk down memory lane.
Too bad they don't make a truck like this anymore. I bought a new one in 1988 working part time while I was in highschool because they were affordable and reliable. There is no way a high school kid working part time could afford the new 2022 Nissan Frontier. Those old Hardbody trucks were awesome. Mine was regular cab 2wd with manual transmission. No frills but was perfect for me
I love my Hardbody, it's an XE V6 4x4 with the 5 speed manual.
Nice I had a Single cab with the KA
I had a 95 XE V6. My wife sat in the back seat with our newborn in the front with a car seat. Once kid number 2 was on the way the truck had to go. I sold it at dealer auction, got a stupid amount for it. I was distressed I even went out in the lot to find it and drove it one more time.
This truck is from the (pre-renault) partnership. This was when Nissan made bulletproof Engines and Transmissions. This is when Nissan introduced and raced the 4x4 Desert Runner.
They must STILL be making some bulletproof stuff. These guys featured a 2007 Frontier that went a million miles on the original drive train. Nissan gave the guy a new truck.
@@TIJoe-te9qu Okay, I found the TFL video on the 1 million mile frontier. Yeah, that's a 2007 4 cylinder 2.5L with a 5-speed manual transmission. That configuration is still the same powertrain Nissan has used since the 1990s. Other than the body style, that 2007 truck has nothing to do with Renault. Their decision-making came with the six cylinders.
@@theylied1776 That's a cool video. And many claim that only a Toyota can go the distance. I don't think Brian Murphy got a freak truck or anything like that. It seems the bad CVT rap got spread to every Nissan somehow.
Nissan partnered with Renault in 1999, so I don't know how they weren't involved in the 2007 D23 Frontier. That model debuted in 2005, after the D22, which replaced the D21 in 1998.
On powertrains, there were three 4 cylinders. The Z24 like I have was used in the 80s, then the KA24 was the one used in the 90s, not the Altima 2.5 that is in the truck in the video. The 2.5 was only used in the D23 starting in 2005. So it was not their 90s engine. The 5 speed, however, used the same design since the 70s. Mine is still stock. It also was used in the Z cars. Awesome gearbox.
Nissan always had a V6 in the trucks, except for smog issues in the late 90s. The early VG30 Z car engine was very reliable. The later 4.0 V6 in the D23, which ran all the way until 2020, is also well-known to be very durable and powerful, though MPG is not too great. The later 5 and 6 speeds also are not known for trouble. Even the 5 speed automatic is actually solid too. Unfortunately, the early D23 automatics had bad Calsonic radiators, which could go bad and mix coolant into the trans. The trans itself was not the problem.
The new 3.8 is too fresh to say, but its receiving positive feedback. Nissan has built nothing but strong V6 engines, so chances are it will be solid. The Mercedes clone 9-speed has had a recall for a parking issue. I don't know the results yet.
Interestingly, Datsun had some Mercedes DNA since the sixties. When Nissan bought Prince, a Mercedes-licensed engine came with it. This became the famous L-series found in the 510, Z, and the trucks. That basic block is the same one in my 1987 D21. Like the SBC of Japan.
My point is that Nissan has ALWAYS had a reputation for bulletproof truck running gear. There has not really been one anchor in 50 years. The only glitches I've ever heard of are the Calsonic radiator issue, and the parking pawl in the new one. The issue with the CVT in cars is unfortunate, but it never affected the engines or any of the pickups.
Sorry for the long history lesson. I've had Nissan since before I got a license, so I get carried away.
@@TIJoe-te9qu let me explain this, I have been rebuilding Datsun since I was 16. I raced amateur rally in a modified 1986 Nissan Pathfinder with a 2.4L 5 speed manual. That's how I know Renault didn't have anything to do with the 2.5L frontier. It's basically the same engine that Nissan used for 18 years! Anyone that's ever rebuilt a Datsun Nissan engine knows this to be true.
You can find a variation of that frontier V6 in Renault, Citron, Peugeot. Renault is about shared automotive platforms. What they also call (parts bin manufacturing).
Also, the CVT is defect is not a bad rap. Nissan has had to pay out almost 900 million due to that. Nissan North America almost went bankrupt in 2019 due to the 3 class action lawsuits.
You can look this fact after yourself, the Japanese government became so concerned with Nissan going bankrupt they had the CEO of Renault, Carlos Ghosn, arrested in 2019 and try to force a merger between Honda and Nissan. The Japanese government was going to extend an interest-free loan to Honda to buy the shares back from Renault. After the third meeting with Nissan executives, the CEO of Honda informed the Japanese government... we cannot fix the internal problems at Nissan caused by Carlos Ghosn. We will not be merging with Nissan.
@@TIJoe-te9qu yeah, I had a 2007 Frontier V6. The only reliable thing on that truck was the six-speed Jatco transmission. When it comes to manual transmissions, Jatco makes some of the best in the world. They're gearing is second to none.
The timing chains on those engines go out or right around 150,000 miles. I changed my oil right around 3,500 miles, and I had to put at least two timing chains on that Frontier. Their water pumps are good though.
I am currently still driving a '94 D21 XEV6 a little over 170,000 miles on it. Grandpa sold it to me for $1.00 11 years ago. Should do a video on it?
I had a 94 single cab. Loved it. Had to pass it on with over 321,000 miles. Would like to get another one
Had a ‘93 4 cyl standard. Bought new for under $7k. No radio, AC and the rear bumper was an option. I had to buy an aftermarket rear bumper just to have a bumper! Greatest vehicle I have ever owned and I miss it all the time.
Yep I bought mine brand new in February of 86 for $7,000 only option I wanted back bumper $250 No radio or AC the factory radio was $300 I put a nice Kenwood stereo a week later for half, waited a few years then had AC installed $600 that was half of what dealership cost, amazingly I’m still driving today runs great
Here in México we get the heck out of this trucks and they still get the job done,i am Talking about trucks with over 300,000 kms and carry 1.5 ton,s or more
My cousin had one, just like that. Though he turned into into a street cruiser, slammed it down to the frame, with the little 4 cylinder under the hood. Manual transmission, with a wicked candy apple coating on a subtle grey paintjob. With the jump seats in the back, he removed them and fit a giant subwoofer in it. Even though it felt like we were on the ground, the leather interior was so nice to sit in. The stereo put out so much power, he had to put in an Optima 6 pack battery and a capacitor to keep from blowing up batteries, lol. He drove it everywhere, and it showed, with over 300 000 KMs.
Memories. Had a 4 cyl. 4WD standard cab. Manual locking hubs and very basic but reliable. I also recall the 0-60 times were recorded with a calendar.
OMG YES!!!...please bring these back..love them to death.A proper small truck.😊😊😊
Be sure to look under the plastic bed liner. The bed rails har factory pop-up tie point to secure stuff in the bed. This feature was only present in the SE model like the one you have. It also has a flip down some light that folds down to illuminate the cargo area.
Can’t believe how excited he gets over this... I’ve got a 1992 2.7 litre diesel 4x4... It’s my every day driver.
I've got a 1992 D21 base model regular cab that I was given to by my grandfather as my first vehicle when I was a teenager, it had 129,000 miles on it.
I never understood the appeal of a truck until owning one as my first vehicle, fishing trips, moving, late-night in the bed under the stars, pulling out stuck friends and family, bringing home my first born son.
It's been 10 years and another 100,000 miles, and now I can't imagine my life without a my truck
I bought my Hardbody in Jan 1992 with 4 miles on it. Now the odometer is broken with over 300,000 and still chugging along.
Dude those jump seats were for your Kids ! 🤣😂
Just bought a 1989 D21 Hardbody Kingcab. Looks brand new, low miles, and everything works on it!
I had a very rare 1986 Nissan Dually with a flatbed. You used to be able to order the Hardbody truck as a "cab + chassis" (the 720 models also). I wish I had never gotten rid of that truck.
97 model. 228k and still going strong but having a harder and harder time getting it smogged. Not because of emissions but the blasted obd on this thing which has been a pain since day 1 getting past the drive cycle phase. As much as I like it, I'd like to replace it but with what? There's only a couple trucks on the market that even offer manual tran, and most truck beds are shorter than mine.
Also, I just watched the 'grand tour', season 2, ep 11. Clarkson on the show said he got a 'hardbody', and he makes jokes about it throughout the episode, but one look, and I don't think so. I think it's a 2002 frontier. For a show that prides itself on motor knowledge that's a pretty big gaffe.
My 95 Hardbody 4x4 is cherry and bomb proof. The 67” width makes it a perfect truck for exploration - can get into places without damage that wider trucks can’t. It also came stock with 4.37 gears, giving it a great crawl ratio. These have some design issues that killed it as a cult vehicle, such as the single pivot lower suspension that uses a tension rod for the second pivot. Toyota’s of the same year were double wishbone, making them superior for off-road and durability. But this truck has never left me stranded - it has started every single time I turn the key since the day I bought it.
Oh, and the crash ratings are not just abysmal, they’re horrifying. Would never want to roll or be in any kind of head on or side impact collision. The videos of the tests are a riot.
I had a '90 that a took all through the woods. Like you said the width was perfect for narrow trails. I spun a bearing in that truck trying to rock it out of the mud. I was young and stupid then and I abused that truck badly. Full rpm in first, then slam it into reverse and dump the clutch to redline, repeat until free. I loved that truck and wish I still had it, though it's been like 15 years now.
I have a 96 hardbody with a pathfinder front conversion ! It is an xe extra cab with power windows and mirrors. It has been lowered 2,4 and has the 15 inch pathfinder rims. I love my truck , I’ve had it for about 7 years and it has 200k miles plus.
My aunt had a Pathfinder with that red interior. Took me back. It looked so nice!
I've got an '87 that looks identical. Maroon SE-V6 with a 5 speed manual and a maroon interior. Mine has 460k miles though. Engine's all original, never been rebuilt. Valve covers and oil pan have never been off. Had it since new. Done the timing belt twice, clutch 3 times. The thing I like the most... Gauges. It has actual gauges for oil pressure, volts, coolant temp, and fuel. The fuel gauge is actually two gauges. It has one for 1/4 to full and has another gauge just for the last 1/4 tank.
I had the king cab se v6 1994 I loved my truck with a manual transmission
I loved the nissan hard bodies. I also liked the isuzu pickup.
I used to owned one. 88 it was amazing.
Best truck I have ever owned.
I have a Nissan Titan now.
I'm actually looking for a hard body.
But they are almost impossible to find.
Love this video. I felt their passion for the truck.. I
I owned a 99 XE Frontier king cab 4 cylinder 4x4 5 speed manual, it was tough solid little truck
Was it the 2.4 litre 4 cyl
@@stevetheriault4164
Yes, DOHC, cast iron block, aluminum heads
My grandpa had a red hardbody that he bought new in ‘88. Regular cab, manual, 4 cylinder, a vinyl bench seat and a matching topper over the bed. They were great for what they were, but VERY basic and the rust got to it pretty bad within 5 years or so. Very cool to see one so clean, non-existent here in the Midwest anymore.
My dad had this truck in white in the late 90s to early 2000s. I loved that truck and called it the white monster because it was a bit rusty. I drove it in high school and took it deer hunting off road. Road tripped to New York from Ohio. Got a kiss from a girl i had a crush on. Lots of memories. Died ar 330k miles. It liked to blow tie rods. The radio wasn't great but worked but you didn't need much when you were listening to Dire Straits on cassette. The jump seats were nice in a pinch, we even had four of us in there which was me and two teenage brothers and our dad, drive two and half hours on a small road trip. The engine sound really takes me back. The tires also sucked but it did okay in the snow when you went out, locked the hubs manually, and switched to 4 low.
The hardbody was also briefly available with a 4cyl non turbo diesel back in 86 and 87. In other countries the diesel was available throughout the run
If you can find one with the TD27 turbo diesel, that's the bee's knees. That and the TD42 from the Safari/Patrol were designed and built for Nissan by UD Trucks. Classic 8 valve, pushrod, gear driven cam, all mechanical design.
We use to own the 2 door pathfinder version of this truck, same color, automatic, same dash, and everything. It had almost 300k on the odometer. It did 3 trips to Mexico at about 5000 miles round trip for each.
And my daily driver is the last of the compact pick up trucks, a Ford Ranger. There are a lot of old compact pickup trucks on the road still. I've seen everything from old Rangers, to Toyotas, to the occasional Datsun where I live.
I bought a new 1986 1/2 Hardbody, 4cyl, standard cab, black. Converted to a manual tilt-bed (VW hood latches in rear wheel well to hold it down, chrome steel rod to hold it in raised position, short 2x4s for cruising position), rear adjustable air shocks, lowered 2" front/rear, American Racing Outlaw II wheels, 25560r15 rear/19570r14 front tires, matching rear tire/wheel spare, 1975 Corvette bucket seats, sunroof, sound system, bed carpet system held in with magnets, chrome traction bars. Took home a few trophies from truck shows. Traded it in for a new 1989 IROC-Z, which spent two years on jacketstands while I polished all of the engine aluminum pieces, Edlebrock Tri-Y headers, stainless cat-back and more (it also took home trophies). Wish I still had those vehicles.
Fair winds and following seas to all.
I just picked one up for $200.00 excellent condition single owner less then 100K no work needed on it
$200 for a single owner under 100k?!? That’s unbelievable! I was feeling pretty solid about picking up mine for $1k 😂
I still love the hardbodies! Such cool looking trucks and body lines. I fell in love with em in 86 when 1st released and right at the starting to getting my license.
I bought a brand new 89 standard cab, bare bones, power nothing, no AC, but a great price for a brand new 4x4 truck for a 18 yr old kid. Recently graduated HS and needed a reliable truck for work (no more air cooled V Dubs). Lifted it, big 35" tires, commuted and off roaded it. Worked great in the snow. Liked the 88 and 89 HBs best, they had flush headlights. Had the 8 plug NAPS Z 4 cyl, manual trans and 4wd. Prefered that motor over the later 90+ KA motor. The early V6 was a let down in these trucks. I got my moneys worth outta my 89! I eventually sold it in 2004 as it was a single cab and I was no longer interested in anything other than a extra cab truck to drive. It had somewhere over 150 k when I sold it with no issues. The coolest thing? I got a pic in a recent text from a longtime friend of my old truck. Still 2nd owner and driving it! My friend happened to run into him at a gas station and recognized it. 2nd owner still had nothing but good things to say about it! Funny thing is, I was certain the guy I sold it to was going to wreck it in a few months. It still looks good and he has taken off the shell and carpet kit.
A Nissan D21 was my first vehicle with the 4 banger paired with the manual. Loved that thing.
1990 was the last year for those long armrests on the door. However, the D21 was not the original pickup if you remember the Datsun 620 and 720. In 1986 1/2 there were two trucks, the 720 and the Nissan 1986 1/2 was made in Tennessee. I have one of these, V6, King Cab, 6' bed, 5-speed manual, Air/Co, power windows and locks, two fuel tank gauges, 122K miles. No rust.
I like these trucks, but I loved the two-door Pathfinder more so that's the one I bought back in there day. With a manual!
That was my first truck when I was 16 but it was green, you wouldn't think but these little trucks, they really do rip! That ass-end is so lite it just slides everywhere if you get on it! Thinking about getting another one, fun little play toys forsure!
I own a 92 se6 extended cab long bed with 111000 on it. It was roughly treated and wrecked at some point so it has a few issues but..no rust..runs good.
Had a 1990 long bed 4 wheel drive Manual version of this truck.. I still have found memories of that little Tank of a truck.. Drove it well past 200,000 before giving it up.. Still miss it 😍
87 4x4 manual v6 tbi SE king cab factory lifted and its awesome 👌
I currently have a 90 pathfinder 4x4 v6 5 speed with over 250,000 mi. hauls my tools to the job site every day, I take it camping and to the desert all the time, really is a great truck. and it's got AC and cruise control, seats are comfortable. it's actually a pretty nice place to be on long trips.
been loving my 92 hardbody 🔥
A friend of mine had a 1989 Nissan pickup with the extended cab. I'm about 6'4'' and remember riding in the rear jump seat area...didn't want to be there for very long. He got his truck after graduating from college and drove it all over the country. His was four cylinder with a manual and sold it after owning it for almost 10 years. The cab and frame were solid but the box pretty much rusted to nothing. I remember he had no problems selling it and got a pretty good price for it.
Just found one ,1997, for 3500 from original owner. Well preserved. Love and hate it! Tried to change the rotors. It was a nightmare! Water pump started leaking. That was a pretty easy fix. Love that I can take it anywhere and will pretty much fit anywhere.
My grandfather has a facelifted single cab, short box 4wd manual that he uses for hunting and he loves it. Over 200k miles, and might be rusty as I’ll get out, but he still loves it
Hahaha memories. This was my buddys first truck. I remember laughing at him try to fight the steering wheel. Lol no power steering
I bought a 1990 with a manual brand new when I was 18. I loved that truck, wish I still had it.
I had an 89 Hardbody King Cab I bought new. Dark blue, 4 cyl, 5 speed manual. That little truck was a beast. I drove it hard, worked it hard and it just kept running along. I put about 70k miles on it in the 3 years I had it. Sold it to a friends dad who drove it for years.
I have this same truck but black, with a manual.
I’ve had an 86, I’ve got a 96 now and I got compliments all the time and offers to sell it, no thank you! Best 5 speed perfect little truck. I will never get rid of it. Btw mine has 271,000 on it & when I sold my 86 it had 350,000 on it and the guy still drives it today, that’s been over 5 years ago.
My dad has a 88 SE V6 4x4, it’s a wonderful truck, can’t wait till it’s mine
We still have one running and going with 500 000 miles, its a workhorse, they dont make trucks like this any more
I’m still driving mine it’s a 1986.5 so first model of Hardbody D21 bought in brand new February 86 $7000 dollars didn’t have radio or Air-condition at time but I installed later, only option was back bumper $250 that I wanted, now has over 400,000 miles on it nothing done to motor runs great best thing I have ever purchased. It’s considered family
I had family and friends that worked at the Spring Hill, Tnn plant where they were built along with the Pathfinder and Xtera of the time.
That’s my gardener’s truck! Old manual 4x4 trucks like Nissan and Toyota in decent shape are a bit pricey in CA.