Nissan President classic cars for sale

History of the Nissan President

Introduced in 1965, the Nissan President was developed as a direct answer to demands for a flagship luxury vehicle within the Japanese domestic market. Filling the highest echelon of Nissan’s range, its main purpose was to serve government officials, executives, and the elite, rivaling models such as the Toyota Century. Sold exclusively through Nissan’s most prestigious retail channels, including Nissan Store and later Nissan Blue Stage, the President established itself as a symbol of Japanese luxury and discretion, evolving through several generations until production ceased in 2010.

Model History

The first Nissan President debuted in 1965 as a full-size luxury sedan and was produced across four generations. Its designs reflected changing tastes in executive cars from the 1960s through to the late 2000s, with the flagship MkII marking a significant technical and stylistic advance. Successive models refined the concept of secluded, high-spec luxury, with no direct replacement after production ended in 2010, cementing the President’s history as Nissan’s proudest limousine lineage.

Highlights of the Nissan President

The President’s primary appeal lies in its rare blend of Japanese craftsmanship, technical innovation, and hushed luxury—qualities sought after by collectors valuing exclusivity and advanced features. Over its lifespan, the President introduced pioneering technologies for its region, from advanced climate control systems to pioneering passive safety features. Its limited availability outside Japan further enhances its uniqueness in the classic car market.

Technical Data

Special Editions and Collectible Models

Throughout its production, the President was occasionally offered in bespoke configurations for specific clientele, such as limousines for government use or versions equipped with additional luxury appointments. However, mainstream limited or numbered special editions are not widely documented outside Japan.

Engine and Performance, Transmission and Handling

The President’s powertrains prioritised smooth operation and long-term reliability over outright acceleration. Refined V8 layouts, paired with automatic gearboxes, provide quiet cruising and effortless progress. While the focus was squarely on rear-seat comfort rather than spirited driving, later Presidents offered advanced suspension systems for improved ride quality. Braking and cornering are consistent with executive saloon standards, and mechanical durability is a hallmark of late-model Presidents. Attention on Classic Trader listings concentrates entirely on the MkII generation, demonstrating a preference for this particular iteration, likely due to its reputation for mechanical robustness and comfort advancements.

Interior, Comfort, Exterior and Design

Interior craftsmanship centres on plush seating, high-grade materials, and rear-seat amenities tailored for chauffeur-driven use—power-operated seats, individual climate zones, and, in some versions, massaging features. Exterior styling combines executive proportions with subdued Japanese detailing, reflecting the President’s understated prestige. Special equipment often included unique wood trim, advanced audio systems, and optional partition screens, while selectable exterior and interior colour palettes allowed bespoke customisation.

Other Features

The President is notable for its Japan-only availability for most of its lifespan, making any European-imported example an unusual find. Some models also featured innovations like voice-activated systems and pioneering active safety setups for their era.

Summary

The Nissan President embodies the zenith of Japanese luxury executive cars—a model defined by technical sophistication, subtle design, and cultural rarity. With its production history limited to domestic sales, it offers a distinctive alternative to Western luxury sedans, attracting collectors seeking exclusivity and refined comfort.