1988 Nissan Prairie 2.0 J7 Specs

OVERVIEW

With a fuel consumption of 22.4 mpg US - 26.9 mpg UK - 10.5 L/100km, a weight of 2733 lbs (1240 kg), the Nissan Prairie 2.0 J7 has a water cooling 4 cylinder OHC engine, a Regular gasoline engine CA20S. This engine CA20S produces a maximum power of 92.2 PS (91 bhp - 67.8 kW) at 5200 rpm and a maximum torque of 145.1 Nm (107 lb.ft - 14.8 kg.m) at 2800 rpm. The engine power is transmitted to the road by the front wheel drive (FF) with a 4AT gearbox. For stopping power, the Nissan Prairie 2.0 J7 braking system includes Leading trailing drum brake at the rear and Ventilated disk at the front. Stock tire sizes are 165S on 14 inch rims at the rear and 165S on 14 inch rims at the front. Chassis details - Nissan Prairie 2.0 J7 has parallel link strut rear suspension and transverse link strut front suspension for road holding and ride confort.

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By Brian Wong, Reviewed by: Kurt Niebuhr, Updated on April 25, 2024

Introduction

The 1988-1990 Nissan Prairie 2.0 J7 emerged as a versatile and practical minivan option during its production span. Designed to accommodate families and provide ample space, this vehicle exhibited a blend of functionality and style.

Characterized by its front-wheel-drive configuration, the 2.0 J7 showcased a streamlined body type, featuring three rows of seats to comfortably seat seven passengers. The 4-speed automatic transmission facilitated a smooth driving experience, while the E-M11 frame provided structural support.

Under the hood, the Prairie 2.0 J7 was powered by the CA20S engine, delivering a substantial 92.2 PS of power and 145.1 Nm of torque. This water-cooled, 4-cylinder OHC engine ran on regular gasoline, striking a balance between performance and efficiency.

In terms of size and dimensions, the Prairie 2.0 J7 boasted an exterior length of 435 cm, a width of 169 cm, and a height of 162.5 cm. Inside, the cabin offered an interior length of 227 cm, a width of 149 cm, and a height of 121 cm, ensuring comfortable passenger space.

Safety considerations included features like power-adjustable door mirrors, while amenity features encompassed a standard radio and autoreverse cassette player. The rear suspension employed a parallel link strut design, contributing to the vehicle's stable handling.

The 1988-1990 Nissan Prairie 2.0 J7 established itself as a practical and well-rounded choice for those seeking a family-oriented minivan, blending functional design, adequate power, and a range of amenities to enhance the driving experience.

Model Overview

During the years 1988 to 1990, the Nissan Prairie 2.0 J7 graced the automotive scene, offering a versatile and family-friendly driving solution. Positioned as a minivan with a focus on practicality, this model aimed to accommodate larger groups while ensuring a comfortable and efficient ride.

The front-wheel-drive layout provided reliable traction, making it suitable for various road conditions. Its body type, a minivan equipped with three rows of seats, catered to families and those seeking ample interior space. With a 4-speed automatic transmission, driving the Prairie 2.0 J7 was made effortless, while the E-M11 frame contributed to its structural integrity.

At its heart lay the CA20S engine, a 4-cylinder OHC powerplant offering a commendable power output of 92.2 PS and a torque of 145.1 Nm. Designed for regular gasoline, this engine balanced performance and fuel efficiency, making it a practical choice for daily driving.

When it came to size and dimensions, the Prairie 2.0 J7 boasted a well-proportioned exterior with an overall length of 435 cm and a width of 169 cm. Inside, the cabin accommodated passengers with an interior length of 227 cm, width of 149 cm, and height of 121 cm.

Safety and convenience features included power-adjustable door mirrors, ensuring visibility, and a standard radio with an autoreverse cassette player for in-car entertainment. The suspension system employed a parallel link strut design in the rear, contributing to stable handling and a smoother ride.

In summary, the 1988-1990 Nissan Prairie 2.0 J7 presented itself as a versatile and family-oriented minivan, embodying practicality, comfortable interiors, and balanced performance to cater to the diverse needs of its drivers and passengers.

Generations

The 1988-1990 Nissan Prairie 2.0 J7 marked a single-generation iteration, maintaining its design and features consistently throughout its production span. This generation introduced a blend of functionality and style, focusing on delivering a reliable and family-friendly minivan option to the market.

Throughout its years on the road, the Prairie 2.0 J7 showcased a commitment to versatility and comfort. The model's single generation allowed Nissan to refine and fine-tune its design elements, ensuring a harmonious balance between exterior dimensions, interior space, and overall performance.

The Prairie 2.0 J7 maintained its distinctive front-wheel-drive layout and three-row seating configuration, providing ample room for up to seven passengers. The unchanging drivetrain and body type underscored the consistency of this generation, catering to families and those seeking practical transportation.

Under the hood, the CA20S engine remained the sole powerplant option, delivering consistent power and torque figures to ensure reliable performance on various road conditions. This engine's durability and efficiency were key factors in establishing the Prairie 2.0 J7 as a dependable choice for daily commuting and family outings.

Safety and convenience features remained consistent throughout the generation, including power-adjustable door mirrors and an available standard radio with an autoreverse cassette player. These elements contributed to the overall driving experience and comfort for both drivers and passengers.

In summary, the 1988-1990 Nissan Prairie 2.0 J7 maintained its design, features, and performance attributes throughout its single-generation span. This approach ensured a familiar and reliable choice for individuals and families seeking a practical and versatile minivan for their transportation needs.

Engine Variants

The heart of the 1988-1990 Nissan Prairie 2.0 J7 beat with unwavering consistency, as it was exclusively equipped with the CA20S engine variant throughout its production years. This engine variant played a pivotal role in defining the model's performance and overall driving experience.

The CA20S engine, a 4-cylinder OHC powerplant, showcased a displacement of 1973 cm3, providing a harmonious blend of power and efficiency. With a maximum power output of 92.2 PS and a torque of 145.1 Nm, this engine offered a reliable and consistent performance suitable for a variety of driving scenarios.

Regular gasoline served as the fuel type for the CA20S engine, further contributing to its practicality and ease of use. The engine's water-cooled design ensured efficient temperature regulation, enhancing both performance and longevity.

The engine's power delivery was managed by a 4-speed automatic transmission, providing smooth and responsive gear shifts. This pairing of engine and transmission aimed to strike a balance between performance and fuel efficiency, making the Prairie 2.0 J7 well-suited for both urban commuting and longer journeys.

In summary, the 1988-1990 Nissan Prairie 2.0 J7's engine variants remained constant, with the CA20S engine serving as the sole powerplant option. This consistent choice provided drivers with a reliable and efficient source of power, ensuring that the minivan met the demands of daily driving and family transportation needs.

Trim Levels

The 1988-1990 Nissan Prairie 2.0 J7 was offered in a selection of trim levels, each catering to different preferences and priorities of potential buyers. These distinct trim levels provided varying levels of comfort, features, and customization options, allowing individuals to choose the one that best suited their needs.

The base trim level of the Prairie 2.0 J7 encompassed essential features while maintaining a focus on practicality and affordability. This trim level provided a reliable and functional transportation solution, making it an attractive option for those seeking a budget-friendly choice.

Moving up the ladder, higher-tier trim levels introduced additional amenities and comfort features. These included power windows and power steering, enhancing convenience for both the driver and passengers. The inclusion of a tachometer and centralized door lock further contributed to the overall driving experience.

While the Prairie 2.0 J7 trim levels didn't venture into extravagant luxury, they did offer practical and thoughtful enhancements. For example, some trim levels featured a tilt steering mechanism, allowing drivers to customize their steering position for increased comfort.

In terms of seating, the trim levels provided options for removable seats, contributing to the vehicle's flexibility in accommodating passengers and cargo. Despite the absence of power-adjustable seats, the available configurations allowed for versatility in configuring the interior space according to the driver's needs.

In summary, the 1988-1990 Nissan Prairie 2.0 J7 came in various trim levels, each tailored to different priorities and preferences. From the basic yet practical base trim to higher-tier options with additional features, these trim levels allowed buyers to select a Prairie 2.0 J7 that aligned with their specific requirements and desires.

Dimensions and Sizes

The 1988-1990 Nissan Prairie 2.0 J7 boasted dimensions and sizes that catered to the practical needs of families and individuals seeking a versatile minivan. Its thoughtfully designed exterior and interior dimensions contributed to its ability to accommodate passengers and cargo with ease.

Externally, the Prairie 2.0 J7 measured approximately 435 cm in length, 169 cm in width, and 162.5 cm in height. These dimensions provided a balanced and manageable footprint for urban driving while still offering ample space inside the cabin.

Inside the vehicle, the Prairie 2.0 J7 continued to impress with its interior dimensions. The interior length extended to around 227 cm, offering generous legroom for both front and rear passengers. The width of 149 cm contributed to a comfortable seating arrangement, and an interior height of 121 cm ensured sufficient headroom.

With a wheelbase of 261 cm, the Prairie 2.0 J7 achieved a well-balanced distribution of space, enhancing stability and ride comfort. The vehicle's front axle length of 146 cm and rear axle length of 143 cm contributed to its overall proportions, further emphasizing its suitability for family transportation.

The 1988-1990 Nissan Prairie 2.0 J7's dimensions extended to practical details such as ride height and ground clearance, measuring at approximately 16.5 cm. This feature allowed the vehicle to navigate various road conditions and obstacles with confidence.

In summary, the dimensions and sizes of the 1988-1990 Nissan Prairie 2.0 J7 were carefully designed to offer a harmonious blend of exterior compactness and interior spaciousness. These well-balanced dimensions contributed to the vehicle's versatility, making it a suitable choice for a wide range of driving scenarios and passenger needs.

Fuel Tank Capacity

The fuel tank capacity of the 1988-1990 Nissan Prairie 2.0 J7 underscored its practicality as a versatile minivan. This essential specification played a significant role in determining the vehicle's driving range and overall convenience for drivers and passengers.

With a fuel tank capacity of approximately 17.1 US gallons (65 liters), the Prairie 2.0 J7 demonstrated a commitment to providing sufficient fuel storage. This capacity allowed for extended periods of driving between refueling stops, making it suitable for both daily commuting and longer journeys.

The vehicle's fuel tank capacity, when combined with its commendable fuel efficiency, contributed to a balanced equation of range and consumption. This meant that drivers could cover considerable distances on a single tank of fuel, reducing the need for frequent visits to the gas station.

In summary, the 1988-1990 Nissan Prairie 2.0 J7's fuel tank capacity of 17.1 US gallons (65 liters) emphasized its capability for extended driving ranges, offering drivers and passengers the convenience of fewer refueling stops during their journeys.

Fuel Consumption and MPG

The fuel consumption and MPG (miles per gallon) of the 1988-1990 Nissan Prairie 2.0 J7 played a crucial role in determining its efficiency and cost-effectiveness for drivers. These figures shed light on the vehicle's ability to balance performance with fuel economy.

In the standardized 10/15 mode test, the Prairie 2.0 J7 exhibited a fuel consumption rate of approximately 22.4 mpg (10.5 L/100km). This measurement provided insight into the vehicle's fuel efficiency during city driving conditions, making it suitable for navigating urban landscapes while conserving fuel.

On the highway, the Prairie 2.0 J7 excelled further, achieving a fuel consumption rate of around 39.2 mpg (6.0 L/100km) at 60 km/h. This impressive figure showcased the vehicle's ability to stretch its fuel efficiency during highway cruising, making it an economical option for longer journeys.

These fuel consumption figures, combined with the vehicle's fuel tank capacity, contributed to its overall range and reduced the need for frequent stops at the gas station. By striking a balance between fuel efficiency and performance, the 1988-1990 Nissan Prairie 2.0 J7 catered to drivers seeking a practical and cost-effective driving experience.

In summary, the Prairie 2.0 J7's fuel consumption rates of approximately 22.4 mpg (10.5 L/100km) in city conditions and 39.2 mpg (6.0 L/100km) on the highway showcased its ability to offer fuel efficiency without compromising on performance, making it a compelling choice for drivers looking to minimize fuel costs.

Wheel Options

The 1988-1990 Nissan Prairie 2.0 J7 offered a selection of wheel options, contributing to both its visual appeal and overall performance. These wheel choices provided drivers with the opportunity to customize the vehicle's aesthetics and handling characteristics to suit their preferences.

The Prairie 2.0 J7 came equipped with front and rear wheels boasting a tire size of 165S R14. This tire configuration struck a balance between comfort and traction, providing a smooth ride while ensuring reliable grip on various road surfaces.

For those seeking enhanced performance and a more dynamic appearance, the available wheel options included a tire size of 185/70 R14 87S. This wider tire profile offered improved stability during cornering and braking, contributing to the vehicle's overall handling capabilities.

In addition to tire sizes, the Prairie 2.0 J7 featured standard aluminum disks, emphasizing the model's attention to both aesthetics and functionality. These aluminum disks not only added a touch of style to the vehicle's exterior but also contributed to its overall performance by reducing unsprung weight.

In summary, the 1988-1990 Nissan Prairie 2.0 J7's wheel options allowed drivers to tailor the vehicle's appearance and handling characteristics to their preferences. Whether prioritizing comfort, traction, or performance, the available tire sizes and aluminum disks provided a level of customization that enhanced the overall driving experience.

Conclusion

The 1988-1990 Nissan Prairie 2.0 J7 encapsulates a chapter in automotive history defined by practicality, versatility, and reliability. With its distinct design, spacious interior, and fuel-efficient engine, this minivan has left its mark as a well-rounded and family-oriented choice.

During its production years, the Prairie 2.0 J7 provided drivers with a consistent driving experience, highlighted by its front-wheel-drive layout, three-row seating configuration, and user-friendly 4-speed automatic transmission. The CA20S engine under the hood ensured a balance of power and efficiency, making it suitable for a range of driving scenarios.

The vehicle's dimensions and sizes, including its exterior and interior measurements, contributed to its ability to accommodate passengers and cargo without compromising on comfort. Whether navigating city streets or embarking on longer journeys, the Prairie 2.0 J7 maintained a well-proportioned stance that complemented its practical nature.

Moreover, the fuel tank capacity and fuel consumption figures reinforced the vehicle's economic appeal, allowing drivers to cover considerable distances on a single tank of fuel. This blend of efficiency and performance contributed to a cost-effective and environmentally conscious driving experience.

In essence, the 1988-1990 Nissan Prairie 2.0 J7 stands as a testament to Nissan's commitment to providing a reliable and family-friendly minivan option. Through its thoughtful engineering, balanced specifications, and versatility, the Prairie 2.0 J7 has solidified its place as a practical and enduring choice for individuals and families alike.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about the 1988-1990 Nissan Prairie 2.0 J7