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Picture this: 1991. While everyone obsessed over Acura NSX ads and Toyota MR2 reviews, Nissan quietly released this angular oddball with headlights sharp enough to slice through time itself. Meet the NX – Nissan’s overlooked answer to the sport-compact craze that’s finally getting its due.
The Magic Roof: Coupe or Roadster?
The NX’s killer feature? Its tool-free removable roof panel. In 30 seconds flat, you’d transform from enclosed coupe to open-air cruiser. Not quite a convertible, but way more exciting than any sunroof.
That wedgy silhouette screamed ’90s futurism, with rear glass that looked stolen from a concept car. And those razor-sharp headlights? Gave the NX permanent “determined face” whether parked or carving corners.
Inside the Time Capsule
Slide behind the wheel and you’d find a refreshingly driver-focused cockpit:
- Sporty seats that hugged without crushing
- Clean dashboard with actual buttons (no touchscreens!)
- Back seats perfect for groceries… or imaginary friends
Fold those rear seats down though, and suddenly you had legit cargo space – rare for compact sports cars.
Where This Underdog Shined Brightest
Here’s why enthusiasts still whisper about the NX: magic handling. Thanks to a limited-slip differential (usually reserved for pricier RWD cars), it gripped corners like duct tape on velvet.
The 2.0L engine’s 143 horsepower won’t melt your face today, but paired with razor-sharp steering and perfect balance? Pure driving joy. Think Miata-level grins per mile.
Why You Rarely Spot Them Today
The NX never hit superstar status. It was overshadowed by:
| Honda Civic Del Sol | Toyota MR2 | Nissan NX |
|---|---|---|
| More mainstream | Mid-engine exotic | Quirky hidden gem |
Today, survivors are usually owned by passionate collectors who cherish its weirdness.
The Final Verdict
The ’91 NX was that indie band that never went platinum but made perfect music. If you spot one at a cars-and-coffee or classified ad, take it for a spin. You’ll instantly understand why this angular underdog deserves way more love than it got.
What forgotten 90s car do you think deserves a comeback? Let us know in the comments!
