The Nissan Bluebird U12, produced between 1987 and 1991, represented a significant evolution in Nissan’s mid-size sedan offerings. Positioned as a comfortable and reliable family vehicle, the U12 generation aimed to balance practicality with a degree of sophistication. The 1.8i variant, equipped with a 110 horsepower engine and an automatic transmission, was a popular choice, particularly in markets where ease of driving and fuel efficiency were prioritized. This configuration served as a mid-range option within the Bluebird U12 lineup, slotting below the more powerful engine choices and offering a more accessible price point than fully-equipped models.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Nissan |
| Model | Bluebird |
| Generation | Bluebird (U12) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.8i (110 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 1987 |
| End of production | 1991 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 7.4 l/100 km (31.8 US mpg, 38.2 UK mpg, 13.5 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Power | 110 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 59.8 Hp/l |
| Torque | 150 Nm @ 4000 rpm (110.63 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | SR18Di |
| Engine displacement | 1838 cm3 (112.16 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 82.5 mm (3.25 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 86 mm (3.39 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Single-point injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Fuel tank capacity | 60 l (15.85 US gal, 13.2 UK gal) |
| Length | 4520 mm (177.95 in.) |
| Width | 1690 mm (66.54 in.) |
| Height | 1375 mm (54.13 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2550 mm (100.39 in.) |
| Front track | 1460 mm (57.48 in.) |
| Rear track | 1440 mm (56.69 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 10 m (32.81 ft.) |
| Drivetrain | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 4 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Bluebird 1.8i Automatic was the SR18Di engine, a 1.8-liter inline four-cylinder powerplant. This engine utilized a single-point fuel injection system, a common technology for the era, delivering fuel to the intake manifold rather than directly into the cylinders. The SR18Di featured a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain, contributing to improved breathing and overall engine efficiency. The 9.5:1 compression ratio was a standard figure for naturally aspirated engines of the time, balancing performance and fuel economy. Paired with this engine was a four-speed automatic transmission, designed to provide smooth and effortless gear changes. This transmission was selected for its ease of use, making the Bluebird particularly appealing to drivers seeking a comfortable daily commute.
Driving Characteristics
The 110 horsepower and 150 Nm (110.63 lb.-ft.) of torque produced by the SR18Di engine, when channeled through the four-speed automatic, resulted in a driving experience focused on smoothness and practicality rather than outright performance. Acceleration was adequate for everyday driving situations, but it wasn’t a particularly quick car. The automatic transmission’s gear ratios were tuned for fuel efficiency and comfortable cruising, meaning that quick downshifts for overtaking required a deliberate push of the throttle. Compared to the manual transmission versions of the Bluebird 1.8i, the automatic offered less driver engagement but greater convenience. It also lagged behind the performance of Bluebird models equipped with larger engines, such as the 2.0-liter variants, which provided noticeably more power and responsiveness.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.8i Automatic trim level of the Bluebird U12 typically included features such as power steering, central locking, and a basic audio system. Interior upholstery was generally cloth, with options for upgraded materials available depending on the market and specific package selected. Dashboard configuration was functional and straightforward, prioritizing ease of use over elaborate styling. Optional extras could include air conditioning, electric windows, and a more advanced audio system with a cassette player. The level of equipment offered with the 1.8i Automatic positioned it as a well-rounded, mid-range offering, appealing to families and individuals seeking a comfortable and reliable vehicle without the expense of premium features.
Chassis & Braking
The Bluebird U12 featured a conventional front-wheel-drive chassis with MacPherson strut suspension in the front and a torsion beam rear suspension. This setup provided a comfortable ride quality, suitable for everyday driving conditions. The front brakes were ventilated discs, offering good stopping power, while the rear brakes were drums, a cost-saving measure common in vehicles of this class. Stabilizer bars were included both front and rear, helping to reduce body roll during cornering. The suspension tuning was geared towards comfort and stability, rather than sporty handling.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Nissan Bluebird U12 1.8i Automatic was generally well-received by automotive critics as a practical and reliable family sedan. Its fuel economy of around 31.8 US mpg was considered respectable for the time. However, some reviewers noted that the engine lacked the punch of its larger counterparts, and the automatic transmission could feel somewhat sluggish. Compared to competitors like the Toyota Corolla and Honda Accord, the Bluebird offered a similar level of comfort and reliability, but often at a slightly lower price point. The 1.8i Automatic variant was particularly popular in markets where automatic transmissions were highly sought after, such as North America and parts of Europe.
Legacy
The SR18Di engine, while not known for being a high-performance unit, proved to be remarkably durable and reliable. Bluebird U12 models equipped with this powertrain have a reputation for longevity, and many examples are still on the road today. The four-speed automatic transmission, while not the most technologically advanced, also proved to be relatively trouble-free. In the used car market, the Bluebird U12 1.8i Automatic is often sought after as an affordable and dependable transportation option. Its simplicity and ease of maintenance make it an attractive choice for those seeking a classic car that doesn’t require extensive mechanical expertise to keep running. The U12 Bluebird, and specifically this 1.8i Automatic variant, represents a solid and dependable example of 1980s Japanese automotive engineering.
