The Nissan Almera I Hatchback (N15) 1.4 S, GX, and LX, produced between 1995 and 2000, represented Nissan’s entry into the competitive European small family car segment. Positioned as a practical and affordable option, the 1.4-liter variant served as the base model for the N15 Almera range, appealing to buyers prioritizing economy and everyday usability. It was a key component of Nissan’s strategy to establish a stronger foothold in the European market, offering a direct competitor to vehicles like the Ford Escort, Opel/Vauxhall Astra, and Volkswagen Golf. The N15 Almera was a significant departure from its predecessor, the Sunny, offering a more modern design and improved driving dynamics.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Nissan |
| Model | Almera |
| Generation | Almera I Hatchback (N15) |
| Type | 1.4 S, GX, LX (75 Hp) |
| Start of production | 1995 |
| End of production | 2000 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 3 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.9 l/100 km (39.9 US mpg, 47.9 UK mpg, 16.9 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 12.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 12.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 12.2 sec |
| Maximum speed | 169 km/h (105.01 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 16.2 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 10.5 kg/Nm |
| Power | 75 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 53.9 Hp/l |
| Torque | 116 Nm @ 4000 rpm (85.56 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | GA14DE |
| Engine displacement | 1392 cm3 (84.95 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 73.6 mm (2.9 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 81.8 mm (3.22 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.2 l (3.38 US qt | 2.82 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 5.9 l (6.23 US qt | 5.19 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1215 kg (2678.62 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1545 kg (3406.14 lbs.) |
| Max load | 330 kg (727.53 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 340 l (12.01 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 50 l (13.21 US gal | 11 UK gal) |
| Length | 4120 mm (162.2 in.) |
| Width | 1690 mm (66.54 in.) |
| Height | 1396 mm (54.96 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2535 mm (99.8 in.) |
| Front track | 1480 mm (58.27 in.) |
| Rear track | 1445 mm (56.89 in.) |
| Drivetrain | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Rigid axle suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic |
| Tires size | 175/65 R14 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Almera 1.4 was the GA14DE engine, a 1.4-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine was a staple in Nissan’s lineup during the 1990s, known for its relative simplicity and durability. The GA14DE featured a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, contributing to reasonable power output for its displacement. Fuel delivery was handled by a multi-port fuel injection system, optimizing combustion efficiency. The engine produced 75 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 116 Nm (85.56 lb-ft) of torque at 4000 rpm. The engine’s design prioritized fuel economy over outright performance. The Almera 1.4 was exclusively offered with a five-speed manual transmission in most markets, providing a direct connection between the engine and the front wheels. The transmission was chosen for its cost-effectiveness and suitability for the engine’s power characteristics.
Driving Characteristics
The Almera 1.4, with its 75 horsepower and five-speed manual transmission, offered modest but adequate performance for everyday driving. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph took approximately 12.2 seconds, and the top speed was around 105 mph. The engine felt somewhat strained at higher speeds or when carrying a full load. The gear ratios were tuned for fuel efficiency, meaning the engine needed to be revved to access its peak power. Compared to higher-spec Almeras equipped with the 1.6 or 2.0-liter engines, the 1.4 felt noticeably slower, particularly during overtaking maneuvers. However, the lighter weight of the 1.4 model did contribute to slightly better handling and fuel economy. The steering was light and easy, making it suitable for urban driving, but lacked the precision and feedback desired by more enthusiastic drivers.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Almera 1.4 S, GX, and LX trims offered a progressively increasing level of equipment. The base ‘S’ trim was fairly spartan, typically including features like central locking, power steering, and basic instrumentation. The ‘GX’ trim added features such as electric front windows, a better stereo system, and upgraded interior trim. The ‘LX’ trim, the highest specification for the 1.4, included features like alloy wheels, air conditioning, and a more comprehensive instrument cluster. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with the LX trim offering a higher quality fabric. Optional extras included a sunroof, metallic paint, and upgraded audio systems.
Chassis & Braking
The Almera I Hatchback utilized a front-wheel-drive layout with a relatively simple suspension setup. The front suspension consisted of independent wishbones, providing a reasonable level of comfort and handling. The rear suspension employed a rigid axle, which was cost-effective but less sophisticated than independent rear suspension. Braking was handled by ventilated discs on the front wheels and drum brakes on the rear. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was available as an option, enhancing safety by preventing wheel lockup during hard braking. The chassis was designed to provide a balance between comfort and handling, prioritizing ride quality over sporty dynamics.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Nissan Almera 1.4 was generally well-received as a practical and affordable small family car. Critics praised its fuel economy and reliability, but noted its lack of performance and somewhat uninspiring driving experience. Compared to rivals like the Ford Escort and Opel/Vauxhall Astra, the Almera 1.4 offered a competitive price point but lacked the refinement and driving dynamics of some of its competitors. The 1.6 and 2.0-liter Almera models offered significantly better performance, but at a higher cost. The 1.4 appealed to buyers who prioritized economy and practicality over driving thrills.
Legacy
The GA14DE engine proved to be a durable and reliable unit, and many Almera 1.4 models are still on the road today. While not known for its performance, the engine’s simplicity and robust construction contribute to its longevity. The Almera I Hatchback, particularly the 1.4 variant, remains a relatively affordable used car option, appealing to buyers seeking a dependable and economical vehicle. However, potential buyers should be aware of potential age-related issues such as corrosion and wear on suspension components. The N15 Almera laid the groundwork for Nissan’s continued presence in the European small family car market, paving the way for subsequent generations of the Almera.
