Picture this: It’s 1991. You’re flipping through car magazines, and between the flashy Acura NSX ads and Toyota MR2 reviews, there’s this oddball Nissan staring back at you—sharp angles, a roofline that looks like it’s mid-squat, and headlights that could cut glass. That’s the NX, Nissan’s underdog answer to the sport-compact craze, and honestly? It was kind of brilliant.
The Car That Couldn’t Decide If It Was a Coupe or a Roadster
The NX’s party trick was its removable roof panel—no tools, no fuss. One minute you’re in a snug coupe; 30 seconds later, you’re cruising with the wind in your hair. It wasn’t a full convertible, but it was way cooler than a sunroof. And that wedge-shaped design? Pure ’90s. The rear glass looked like it belonged on a concept car, and those angular headlights gave it permanent “determined face.”
Inside: Cozy, But in a Good Way
Slide inside, and you’re greeted with a no-nonsense cockpit. The seats hugged you just enough to feel sporty without being punishing, and the dash was refreshingly simple—no touchscreens, just clear gauges and tactile buttons. The back seat? Let’s be real—it was basically a glorified parcel shelf. But fold it down, and suddenly you could fit more than just a gym bag.
The Surprise Star: That Sweet, Sweet Handling
Here’s where the NX punched above its weight. That limited-slip differential (usually reserved for pricier rear-drive cars) made it grip corners like it was on rails. The steering was sharp, the chassis balanced, and with the 2.0L engine (143 hp, not bad for the era), it was legit fun to drive. Not “Porsche 911 fast,” but “Mazda Miata grin-inducing.”
Why You Don’t See Many Today
The NX never became a household name. It was overshadowed by the Civic Del Sol’s popularity and the MR2’s mid-engine mystique. But that’s what makes it special—it’s a forgotten underdog with legit charm. Spot one today, and it’s probably owned by a die-hard who appreciates its weirdness.
Final Thought: The ’91 NX was like that indie band from the ’90s that never went mainstream but had a killer album. If you ever get the chance to drive one, take it—you’ll understand why this little Nissan deserves more love.
