Japan’s Kei car class has been in existence for more than seven decades now. For those who don't know, the Kei car is what microcars are to Europe. In Europe, the microcar boom was gaining momentum in the mid-50s but for Japan, it all started long before, in the late '40s. The idea behind all these cars was to reach out to the masses and sell in volumes rather than anything else. This was the time when the entire world was recovering from the after-effects of WWII so a lot of carmakers were in financial trouble.

However, Japan was the quickest to answer the problem by creating a new class of vehicles with lucrative tax breaks in 1949. The Kei car class was restricted to a maximum length of 9.2 ft, a maximum width of 3.3 ft, and a maximum height of 6.6 ft. The engine displacement limit was limited to a maximum of 100cc for a two-stroke engine and 150cc for a four-stroke engine. Over the years these limitations have increased but the Kei cars proved that sometimes the best things do come in small packages. They have evolved with the times and still exist in the Japanese car bazaar.

Many of them were sold exclusively in the Japanese Domestic Market, or JDM for short, and were forbidden fruit for autophiles and collectors in the US. Now, while some JDM cars are expensive, there are plenty of them that fit the bill of a budget-minded collector and this is where Kei cars come in. Like this one, called the Nissan Figaro. It’s tiny and cute but you’ll be mobbed with fans for sure wherever to take it. Let’s delve into this beautiful Kei car’s past.

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The Modern Retro Classic: Nissan Figaro

1991 Nissan Figaro In Beige & White
Via: Mecum

It may look like a vintage, but the Figaro is more of a modern classic. Built for only one year in 1991 as a limited-edition model, Nissan Figaro was the last of the series of short-lived Pike Factory cars like the S-Cargo, the BE-1, and the Pao. Of all these four Kei cars, Nissan Figaro was the perfect marriage of modern motoring and old-school styling and has become an ideal gateway into classic car ownership nowadays. It was sold via the Nissan Cherry Stores under the marketing slogan “Back to the Future” in 1991, sorry DMC DeLorean. Nissan initially sold only 8000 examples but had to add 12,000 more to meet the rising demand at the time. The car became so popular that Nissan had to float a lottery system so everyone had an equal opportunity to own a Figaro.

It’s the aesthetics that draw people to a car Nissan Figaro. It’s got a distinctive roof that folds under the big hood at the back just above its tiny boot between the taillights. The B-pillars and areas above the side windows remain in their position. The storage space looks small but one can go for a classy luggage rack that can be fitted to the upper boot. It may not be a fully-fledged drop-top but it’s fascinating. With a characteristic bubble-style rear end, adorable round headlamps, an iconic oval grille, and plenty of chrome treatment all around it was nothing less than a fashion statement in the early 90s.

Apart from being a head-turner, this pocket-sized car also featured power steering, power windows, full air conditioning, an old-fashioned CD player, 2+2 seating, and a classy vintage interior.

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There's A Funhouse Under The Tiny Hood

1991 Nissan Figaro Repainted in Topaz Mist
Via: BringaTrailer

The 1,800-pound Nissan Figaro was only 147 inches long but it could easily house a turbocharged 1.0-liter inline-4 engine mated to a 3-speed automatic transmission. This powerplant hammered out 75 horsepower and 78 lb-ft of torque which was enough for a top spin of 106 MPH. These figures might look small, but these pint-sized cars pack a lot of fun for driving enthusiasts all over the world. The same reason why everyone loved and still loves the VW Beetle. The small engine responds eagerly and a rear-wheel-drive powertrain offers better handling stability. Its compact size makes it practical for city driving plus its fuel economy is a breeze.

The only worrisome thing is tracking the car’s history as most JDM cars don’t have vehicle identification numbers or VINs. It is wiser to ask for the car’s “auction sheet” as it could have the key details about the aftermarket modifications, repainting, accidents, or body damage if any.

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The True JDM For A Budget-Minded Fan

1991 Nissan Figaro In Firenze Red Metallic Paint And A Foldable Top
Via: BringaTrailer

Under the 25-year automotive import rule, only a car that’s older than 25 years can be imported legally to the US irrespective of the compliances with the U.S. safety and emissions standards. However, some US states may have additional restrictions so its best to check the laws before putting down the money.

That said; JDM makes for an attractive marker for budget-minded collectors as they are known for their reliability and don't always cost an arm and a leg. They are easier to maintain and there’s plenty of aftermarket support in the US. Mostly, these are fun second cars that can be modified to the highest degree and then sold at a profit later.

You can get a Nissan Figaro for as low as $10,000 for a well-kept example. However, a pristine condition Figaro can set you back by around $40,000, which fills the bill of a budget-minded JDM fan. Most of these cars are still in good shape and have relatively low miles on the clock so that's also something, which lures the buyers to it. Plus, who can resist those puppy-dog looks?

Sources: TopSpeed, JDMbuysell