1999 Nissan Laurel, C35

nant offerings from Toyota. We love the Laurel for its snazzy styling, frugal cost of ownership, and parts availability, which makes examples like this 1999 the perfect project. In need of some transmission work, and minor fuel tank repair, the list of negatives stops there, as this C35 is in above average shape overall, and is free of any major surface corrosion or clearcoat loss that typically plagues old Nissans. Finished in White Pearl (QT1), this sleek saloon is set off by OEM Rainguards. Better yet, the 46k miles on the clock are verified, documented, and do a lot to value this chassis. Ideal as a smooth and comfortable daily driver, the Laurel is a modification friendly sedan that shares DNA with some Silvia and Skyline models, making a five-speed swap a cakewalk. With such distinguished heritage, it makes sense why we’d deem this one a certified Japanese Classic! For a 25 year old cabin the interior feels surprisingly modern and is chock full of premium materials and power amenities to make daily driving a breeze. For starters, the tan cloth upholstery is soft and supple to the touch and the driver benefits from a tilt adjustable steering column to dial in the perfect piloting position. The dash is nicely integrated into the front of the cabin and features a sweeping design that’s quite easy on the eyes. It’s also resisted any serious UV distortion or wear and tear over the years and has a few hidey holes for your more personal belongings. Nestled in the center stack, digital automatic climate control is adjacent to the audio and works like a charm with both cold A/C and hot heat on hand for those living in more seasonal climates. Factory audio is also fully operational and sound quality is crystal clear although FM functionality is limited here in the states. All four power windows slide up and down without hesitation, and the power locks and electric folding side mirrors do too. For your safety conscious occupants, dual SRS airbags are present up front, and the rear bench can squeeze in three additional occupants with ease. For originality’s sake we retained the original carpet mats to protect your investment in this classic Laurel, and save for a non operational power folding driver mirror and a broken fuel gauge, it’s hard to nitpick the cabin overall. The RB20DE under the bonnet is a strong unit. If you’re familiar with 90’s performance this should come as no surprise, but this revised NEO variant is quite the runner. It cranks over with haste under the hood, and settles into a smooth idle. While this I6 runs like a top, there is a transmission issue that prevents the vehicle from shifting out of low gear and undergoing a complete road test. Still, we were able to confirm the suspension of this Laurel to be in good shape, as well as the operation of the power steering and ABS brakes. Wrapped in good all-season rubber, the factory steel wheels are in good shape. This C35 is the perfect candidate for a manual transmission swap, and a great buy in the market. Nissan nuts and aspiring drifters listen closely, this is one clean unit you won’t want to miss.