1996 Nissan Sunny 1.3 FE Specs

OVERVIEW

With a fuel consumption of 35.1 mpg US - 42.1 mpg UK - 6.7 L/100km, a weight of 2204 lbs (1000 kg), the Nissan Sunny 1.3 FE has a water cooling 4 cylinder DOHC16 valve engine, a Regular gasoline engine GA13DE. This engine GA13DE produces a maximum power of 86.1 PS (85 bhp - 63.3 kW) at 6000 rpm and a maximum torque of 108.8 Nm (80.2 lb.ft - 11.1 kg.m) at 4400 rpm. The engine power is transmitted to the road by the front wheel drive (FF) with a 4AT gearbox. For stopping power, the Nissan Sunny 1.3 FE braking system includes Leading trailing drum brake at the rear and Ventilated disk at the front. Chassis details - Nissan Sunny 1.3 FE has multi link beam type coil spring rear suspension and strut coil spring front suspension for road holding and ride confort.

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By Brian Wong, Reviewed by: Kurt Niebuhr, Updated on April 19, 2024

Introduction to the 1996-1997 Nissan Sunny 1.3 FE

The 1996-1997 Nissan Sunny 1.3 FE represents a notable entry in the automotive landscape of its time. This compact sedan was produced during the period from August 1996 to April 1997, and it exuded a blend of practicality and efficiency that appealed to a wide range of drivers.

Design and Body Type:
The Nissan Sunny 1.3 FE took on the form of a sedan, offering a four-door configuration. Its exterior dimensions were modest yet well-balanced, with an exterior length of 429.5 cm, a width of 169 cm, and a height of 138.5 cm. These dimensions contributed to its maneuverability in urban settings while still providing ample interior space for passengers.

Engine and Performance:
Under the hood, the 1.3 FE was powered by a 1.3-liter inline-four-cylinder engine with the engine code GA13DE. This engine produced a maximum power output of 85 bhp (brake horsepower) and a maximum torque of 80.2 lb.ft, delivering a satisfying balance of performance and fuel efficiency. It was paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission, contributing to smooth and hassle-free driving.

Fuel Efficiency:
One of the standout features of the 1996-1997 Nissan Sunny 1.3 FE was its commendable fuel efficiency. It achieved a fuel consumption rate of 35.1 mpg in the 10/15 mode and an even more impressive 52.2 mpg in the 60 km/h mode. This efficiency made it an economical choice for daily commuting and longer journeys.

Interior Comfort and Safety:
Inside, the Nissan Sunny 1.3 FE accommodated up to five passengers comfortably. It featured standard power steering and a driver's airbag for enhanced safety. While it didn't boast luxury amenities like leather seats or advanced infotainment systems, it offered a practical and straightforward interior layout.

Suspension and Handling:
The suspension setup consisted of a front strut coil spring and a rear multi-link beam type coil spring, providing a balanced ride quality. It rolled on 155S R13 tires mounted on standard aluminum disks, ensuring stability and grip on the road.

Final Thoughts:
In summary, the 1996-1997 Nissan Sunny 1.3 FE was a compact sedan designed with practicality and efficiency in mind. Its compact dimensions, fuel-efficient engine, and straightforward features made it a popular choice for individuals seeking a reliable and economical daily driver during its production period. While it didn't offer a multitude of advanced features, its focus on the essentials made it a dependable and cost-effective option for many drivers.

Engine Specifications

The heart of the 1996-1997 Nissan Sunny 1.3 FE lies in its engine specifications, which contribute significantly to its performance and efficiency.

GA13DE Engine:
Powering this compact sedan is the GA13DE engine. This 1.3-liter inline-four-cylinder engine is known for its reliability and balance between power and fuel efficiency. While it may not be a high-performance powerhouse, it delivers a respectable output that suits the daily driving needs of many.

Power Output:
The engine generates a maximum power output of approximately 85 brake horsepower (bhp). This level of power is well-suited for city commuting and highway cruising, providing adequate acceleration and responsiveness for a compact sedan in this class.

Torque Performance:
The engine produces a peak torque of around 80.2 lb.ft (pound-feet) or 108.8 Nm (Newton-meters). This torque figure contributes to the car's ability to handle various driving conditions, including uphill climbs and overtaking on highways.

DOHC and 16 Valves:
The GA13DE engine features double overhead camshafts (DOHC) and 16 valves. This design enhances the engine's efficiency, allowing for smoother airflow and improved combustion. The result is a balance between power and fuel economy.

Fuel Type:
The engine runs on regular gasoline, which is readily available and cost-effective, further adding to the overall affordability of owning and operating the Nissan Sunny 1.3 FE.

Transmission:
The engine is paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission, which provides smooth and convenient shifting, making it ideal for daily commuting and city driving.

In essence, the engine specifications of the 1996-1997 Nissan Sunny 1.3 FE underline its suitability as a practical and efficient compact sedan. While it may not boast high-performance figures, its engine design prioritizes reliability, fuel efficiency, and everyday usability, making it a sensible choice for a wide range of drivers during its production period.

Dimensions and Sizes

The dimensions and sizes of the 1996-1997 Nissan Sunny 1.3 FE play a crucial role in defining its compact yet spacious character.

Exterior Dimensions:
- Length: The Sunny 1.3 FE measures approximately 429.5 cm (169.09 inches) in length. This compact length makes it maneuverable in urban traffic and easy to park in tight spaces.
- Width: With a width of around 169 cm (66.53 inches), it strikes a balance between stability on the road and narrowness for urban navigation.
- Height: Standing at about 138.5 cm (54.52 inches) in height, it maintains a low profile while providing adequate headroom.

Interior Dimensions:
- Length: Inside the cabin, the interior length extends to approximately 185 cm (72.83 inches), offering ample legroom for both front and rear passengers.
- Width: The interior width measures around 139.5 cm (54.92 inches), providing comfortable seating for up to five passengers.
- Height: The interior height stands at about 115 cm (45.27 inches), ensuring sufficient headroom for occupants.

Wheelbase:
The Sunny 1.3 FE features a wheelbase of 253.5 cm (99.8 inches), which contributes to its stability on the road and helps smooth out the ride.

Ground Clearance:
With a ground clearance of 15 cm (5.9 inches), this sedan strikes a balance between ground-hugging stability and the ability to handle modestly uneven road surfaces.

Weight and Seating Capacity:
The car has a curb weight of approximately 1000 kg (2204 lbs) and can comfortably seat up to five passengers. Its lightweight construction aids in fuel efficiency and nimble handling.

Number of Doors:
The Nissan Sunny 1.3 FE comes with a four-door configuration, providing easy access to both the front and rear seating areas.

Turning Circle:
The minimum turning circle, or turning diameter, is approximately 4.6 meters, which allows for relatively easy maneuvering in tight spaces.

In summary, the dimensions and sizes of the 1996-1997 Nissan Sunny 1.3 FE highlight its compact yet practical design. It offers a comfortable interior with ample legroom while maintaining a manageable exterior size suitable for urban driving. These dimensions contribute to the car's versatility and appeal as a daily driver during its production period.

Fuel Tank Capacity

The fuel tank capacity of the 1996-1997 Nissan Sunny 1.3 FE is a significant factor in determining its range and convenience for drivers.

Fuel Tank Capacity:
This compact sedan is equipped with a fuel tank capable of holding approximately 13.2 US gallons, equivalent to about 10.9 UK gallons or 50 liters of fuel. This capacity allows the Nissan Sunny 1.3 FE to cover a considerable distance between refueling stops, making it a practical choice for daily commuting and longer journeys.

With this fuel tank capacity, drivers can expect a good balance between driving convenience and efficiency, as it reduces the frequency of stops at the gas station. This feature aligns with the car's overall focus on cost-effective and hassle-free transportation, making it a suitable option for those seeking economical and straightforward driving during its production years.

Fuel Consumption

Fuel consumption is a crucial consideration for any vehicle, and the 1996-1997 Nissan Sunny 1.3 FE was designed with efficiency in mind.

Fuel Efficiency - 10/15 Mode:
During testing in the 10/15 mode, the Nissan Sunny 1.3 FE demonstrated impressive fuel efficiency, achieving a rate of approximately 35.1 mpg in the United States, equivalent to about 42.1 mpg in the United Kingdom or 6.7 liters per 100 kilometers. This level of efficiency made it an economical choice for urban and suburban driving, where stop-and-go traffic and short trips are common.

Fuel Efficiency - 60 km/h Mode:
On the open road, the Sunny 1.3 FE excelled even further, achieving a remarkable fuel consumption rate of approximately 52.2 mpg in the United States, which translates to about 62.7 mpg in the United Kingdom or 4.5 liters per 100 kilometers. This impressive efficiency made it a cost-effective option for longer highway journeys, ensuring that drivers could cover substantial distances with fewer fuel stops.

These fuel consumption figures underscore the car's reputation for being budget-friendly in terms of operating costs. The combination of a fuel-efficient engine and thoughtful design made the 1996-1997 Nissan Sunny 1.3 FE a practical choice for those looking to minimize fuel expenses while enjoying dependable transportation during its production years.

MPG (Miles Per Gallon)

Miles per gallon (MPG) is a significant metric when evaluating the efficiency of a vehicle's fuel consumption, and the 1996-1997 Nissan Sunny 1.3 FE delivered commendable figures in this regard.

MPG in the United States:
In the United States, where MPG is a common metric for fuel efficiency, the Sunny 1.3 FE achieved approximately 35.1 miles per gallon. This figure reflects the car's ability to cover a substantial distance on a single gallon of fuel, making it a cost-effective choice for American drivers.

MPG in the United Kingdom:
In the United Kingdom, the car's fuel efficiency was even more impressive, with a rating of about 42.1 miles per gallon. This value aligns with the UK's use of the Imperial gallon, which is larger than the US gallon, and showcases the car's ability to maximize fuel economy.

L/100km Conversion:
For those who prefer liters per 100 kilometers (L/100km) as a measure of fuel consumption, the Nissan Sunny 1.3 FE achieved around 6.7 L/100km in the 10/15 mode and approximately 4.5 L/100km in the 60 km/h mode. These figures highlight its efficiency in metric terms and further emphasize its economical nature.

In summary, the 1996-1997 Nissan Sunny 1.3 FE offered excellent fuel efficiency, whether measured in miles per gallon or liters per 100 kilometers. These figures contributed to its reputation as a budget-friendly and practical choice for drivers looking to minimize fuel expenses while enjoying reliable transportation during its production years.

Wheel Specifications

Wheel specifications are essential to understand a vehicle's handling and ride characteristics. The 1996-1997 Nissan Sunny 1.3 FE was equipped with wheels designed to balance stability and efficiency.

Tire Size:
The Sunny 1.3 FE rolled on tires with the dimensions of 155S R13. These tires offered a good compromise between road grip and fuel efficiency, aligning with the car's overall focus on practicality and cost-effective driving.

Rim Material:
Standard aluminum disks were used for the wheels. These lightweight rims not only contributed to improved fuel efficiency but also aided in the vehicle's handling dynamics, allowing for smoother acceleration and braking.

The choice of wheel specifications in the 1996-1997 Nissan Sunny 1.3 FE aimed to strike a balance between stability on the road and fuel economy. The 155S R13 tires provided adequate traction, while the lightweight aluminum rims contributed to the car's nimble and responsive handling. These specifications were in line with the vehicle's overall design philosophy, emphasizing practicality and efficiency for everyday driving during its production years.

Trim Levels and Generations

The 1996-1997 Nissan Sunny 1.3 FE, although a compact sedan, offered various trim levels and belonged to a generation of vehicles that carried forward the legacy of the Sunny model.

Trim Levels:
During its production period, the Nissan Sunny 1.3 FE was available in multiple trim levels. These trim levels often featured variations in features and interior amenities. While specific trim levels may vary depending on the region and market, some common trims included the base model and upgraded versions with additional features such as power windows, air conditioning, and other conveniences.

Generations:
The 1996-1997 Nissan Sunny 1.3 FE was part of the B14 generation of the Sunny model, with the frame name "E-B14." This generation retained the qualities that made the Sunny popular, including its compact size, practicality, and affordability. The B14 generation continued the tradition of offering reliable transportation with a focus on fuel efficiency, making it a suitable choice for drivers seeking cost-effective and dependable daily transportation.

Throughout its trim levels and generations, the Nissan Sunny 1.3 FE maintained its reputation for being a budget-friendly and practical option for a wide range of drivers. Its affordability, combined with its efficient design and dependable performance, ensured its popularity during its production years.

Fuel Capacity and Average

Fuel capacity and average fuel consumption are essential considerations for any vehicle, and the 1996-1997 Nissan Sunny 1.3 FE addressed these aspects thoughtfully.

Fuel Capacity:
The fuel tank of the Nissan Sunny 1.3 FE had a capacity of approximately 13.2 US gallons, which is equivalent to about 10.9 UK gallons or 50 liters. This sizable tank allowed for extended driving between refueling stops, making it a practical choice for those seeking convenience and efficiency in their daily commute.

Fuel Average:
The fuel efficiency of the 1996-1997 Nissan Sunny 1.3 FE was noteworthy. In the 10/15 mode, it achieved an average fuel consumption rate of approximately 35.1 mpg in the United States, which is equivalent to about 42.1 mpg in the United Kingdom or 6.7 liters per 100 kilometers. In the 60 km/h mode, the average fuel consumption improved even further, reaching approximately 52.2 mpg in the United States, equivalent to about 62.7 mpg in the United Kingdom or 4.5 liters per 100 kilometers. These figures highlight its ability to offer both convenience and economical operation, making it an attractive choice for daily drivers.

In summary, the 1996-1997 Nissan Sunny 1.3 FE provided a balance between a substantial fuel tank capacity and impressive fuel efficiency. This combination allowed drivers to cover significant distances with fewer stops for refueling, contributing to its reputation as a practical and cost-effective option for daily transportation during its production years.

Notable Features

The 1996-1997 Nissan Sunny 1.3 FE may have been a compact and budget-friendly sedan, but it offered several notable features that contributed to its appeal and practicality during its production period.

1. Fuel Efficiency: One of the standout features of the Sunny 1.3 FE was its impressive fuel efficiency. With its efficient 1.3-liter engine and lightweight design, it was known for delivering excellent miles per gallon, making it a cost-effective choice for daily commuting and longer trips.

2. Reliable Engine: The GA13DE engine powering this model was known for its reliability and durability. It provided consistent performance and required minimal maintenance, reducing ownership costs.

3. Compact Design: The compact exterior dimensions of the Sunny 1.3 FE made it easy to maneuver in urban traffic and park in tight spaces. Despite its small size, it offered a surprisingly spacious interior for both passengers and cargo.

4. Cost-Effective Ownership: The car's affordability, combined with its fuel efficiency and reliability, made it an economical choice for budget-conscious drivers. It struck a balance between the initial purchase price and ongoing operating costs.

5. Practical Interior: While not extravagant, the interior of the Nissan Sunny 1.3 FE was designed with practicality in mind. It featured comfortable seating for up to five passengers, a straightforward dashboard layout, and essential controls for an uncomplicated driving experience.

6. Safety Features: The inclusion of a driver's airbag and side impact bars in some models enhanced safety, providing occupants with added protection in the event of a collision.

7. Smooth Ride: The suspension setup, including a multi-link beam type coil spring in the rear, contributed to a comfortable and smooth ride, making daily commuting more enjoyable.

8. Low Ownership Costs: With its low fuel consumption, minimal maintenance requirements, and affordable parts and servicing, the Nissan Sunny 1.3 FE offered a low total cost of ownership.

In summary, the 1996-1997 Nissan Sunny 1.3 FE may not have been laden with luxurious features, but it was characterized by its practicality, affordability, and focus on efficiency. These notable features made it a popular choice for individuals seeking dependable and cost-effective transportation during its production years.

Interior and Exterior Details

The 1996-1997 Nissan Sunny 1.3 FE, despite its compact stature and budget-friendly positioning, offered a thoughtful combination of interior and exterior details that catered to practicality and functionality.

Interior Details:
- Seating for Five: The interior of the Sunny 1.3 FE featured comfortable seating for up to five passengers, making it suitable for small families or group outings.

- Driver-Oriented Dashboard: The dashboard layout was designed with a driver-friendly approach, with essential controls within easy reach. While it may not have been high-tech, it ensured ease of use.

- Ample Legroom: With an interior length of approximately 185 cm, passengers enjoyed adequate legroom both in the front and rear seats for a comfortable ride.

- Adjustable Steering: The steering column was adjustable, allowing drivers to find a comfortable driving position.

- Standard Power Steering: Power steering was included as a standard feature, enhancing maneuverability and reducing driver fatigue.

Exterior Details:
- Compact Design: The exterior of the Sunny 1.3 FE had a compact yet well-proportioned design, making it easy to navigate through city streets and park in tight spaces.

- Body-Colored Bumpers: The bumpers were typically body-colored, providing a unified and clean look to the exterior.

- Adequate Lighting: While it may not have featured high-end xenon or LED lamps, it had standard front and rear lighting, including headlights, taillights, and turn signals.

- Variety of Colors: Depending on the region and availability, the car was offered in a range of exterior colors, allowing buyers to choose their preferred finish.

- Clean Lines: The exterior design featured clean lines and a straightforward appearance, in line with the car's practical and no-nonsense character.

While the 1996-1997 Nissan Sunny 1.3 FE may not have boasted luxurious or extravagant interior and exterior features, it offered a well-thought-out combination of elements that catered to the needs of budget-conscious drivers. Its focus on practicality, functionality, and ease of use made it a reliable choice for daily transportation during its production years.

Driving Experience

The driving experience of the 1996-1997 Nissan Sunny 1.3 FE was characterized by a blend of practicality, comfort, and efficiency, making it a suitable choice for daily commuting and city driving.

Responsive Handling: Despite its compact size, the Sunny 1.3 FE offered responsive handling. Its compact dimensions allowed for easy maneuvering through urban traffic and tight parking spaces. The adjustable steering column and power steering further enhanced the ease of handling.

Smooth Ride: The suspension system, which included front struts with coil springs and a rear multi-link beam with coil springs, contributed to a smooth and comfortable ride. It absorbed road imperfections, providing a pleasant experience for both the driver and passengers.

Efficient Engine: The GA13DE engine, known for its reliability, provided adequate power for typical daily driving scenarios. While not a high-performance engine, it offered a balance between power and fuel efficiency, making it suitable for city and highway driving.

Fuel Efficiency: The car's notable fuel efficiency meant fewer stops at the gas station, reducing overall operating costs. This made it an economical choice for drivers who prioritized cost-effective transportation.

Visibility: The Sunny 1.3 FE featured good visibility from the driver's seat, thanks to well-designed windows and mirrors. This aspect contributed to a sense of confidence and safety while navigating city streets and highways.

Interior Comfort: While the interior may not have been luxurious, it offered a practical and comfortable environment. Adequate legroom and seating for five passengers ensured that occupants had a pleasant experience during their journeys.

Reliability: Nissan's reputation for building reliable vehicles was reflected in the Sunny 1.3 FE. It was a car that drivers could depend on for their daily transportation needs.

In summary, the 1996-1997 Nissan Sunny 1.3 FE provided a driving experience that prioritized practicality, comfort, and efficiency. It was well-suited for city and suburban driving, offering a smooth ride, responsive handling, and cost-effective operation. While it may not have had the features of more upscale vehicles, its focus on the essentials made it a dependable choice for drivers during its production years.

Maintenance and Ownership Costs

When it came to maintenance and ownership costs, the 1996-1997 Nissan Sunny 1.3 FE had several factors that contributed to its reputation for being a budget-friendly choice for drivers.

Low Fuel Consumption: One of the most significant factors impacting ownership costs was the car's excellent fuel efficiency. With its efficient engine and impressive miles per gallon figures, it helped drivers save significantly on fuel expenses, especially during daily commuting.

Reliable Engine: The GA13DE engine under the hood of the Sunny 1.3 FE was renowned for its reliability. It required minimal maintenance and had a long lifespan, reducing the frequency of visits to the mechanic and keeping repair costs in check.

Affordable Parts: Replacement parts for the Nissan Sunny 1.3 FE were widely available and reasonably priced. This accessibility and affordability of parts contributed to lower maintenance and repair expenses.

Simple Design: The car's straightforward and uncomplicated design made it easier to work on and maintain. This simplicity also translated to lower labor costs when repairs were needed.

Cost-Effective Ownership: With its combination of low fuel consumption, minimal maintenance requirements, and affordable parts and servicing, the Nissan Sunny 1.3 FE offered a cost-effective ownership experience. This was particularly appealing to budget-conscious drivers looking to minimize their overall vehicle-related expenses.

Dependable Transportation: Beyond cost considerations, the Sunny 1.3 FE provided dependable transportation. Its reputation for reliability meant fewer unexpected breakdowns and repairs, further contributing to peace of mind for owners.

In summary, the 1996-1997 Nissan Sunny 1.3 FE excelled in providing a cost-effective ownership experience. Its low fuel consumption, reliable engine, and affordability in terms of parts and maintenance made it an attractive choice for individuals seeking practical and budget-friendly transportation during its production years.

Reliability and Reviews

Reliability is a key aspect of the 1996-1997 Nissan Sunny 1.3 FE, and it garnered favorable reviews during its production years for its dependability and practicality.

Dependable Engine: The GA13DE engine, powering the Sunny 1.3 FE, was known for its reliability. It was a robust and well-proven powerplant that required minimal maintenance to keep running smoothly.

Low Operating Costs: Owners appreciated the car's low operating costs, including fuel efficiency and affordable maintenance. These factors contributed to a positive ownership experience.

Positive Owner Reviews: Many owners praised the Sunny 1.3 FE for its cost-effective nature and longevity. It was often seen as a vehicle that could withstand daily use without major issues.

Simplicity in Design: The car's straightforward design and engineering made it easier to maintain and repair. Owners found it hassle-free to address routine maintenance tasks.

Longevity: Due to its reliability and sturdy construction, some Sunny 1.3 FE models remained on the road for many years, earning a reputation for longevity.

Customer Satisfaction: Overall, the vehicle's practicality, affordability, and reliability left a positive impression on many owners, leading to a high level of customer satisfaction.

While it may not have been the flashiest or most feature-rich vehicle in its class, the 1996-1997 Nissan Sunny 1.3 FE's reliability and cost-effectiveness made it a practical choice for those seeking dependable transportation without breaking the bank. Positive owner reviews and a reputation for longevity further solidified its status as a reliable and sensible option during its production years.

Conclusion: The 1996-1997 Nissan Sunny 1.3 FE in Retrospect

Reflecting on the 1996-1997 Nissan Sunny 1.3 FE reveals a compact sedan that prioritized practicality, efficiency, and affordability. While it may not have boasted the advanced features of more modern vehicles, it carved out a niche for itself in the automotive landscape of its time.

Budget-Friendly Transportation: The Sunny 1.3 FE was a cost-effective choice for drivers, with its efficient fuel consumption, affordable maintenance, and reasonable purchase price. It offered an economical way to meet daily commuting needs and run errands without straining the budget.

Dependability and Reliability: The reputation of the GA13DE engine and the overall build quality of the car contributed to its reliability. Many owners enjoyed years of trouble-free driving, knowing they could depend on their Sunny 1.3 FE for daily transportation.

Sensible Design: The car's design was pragmatic, focusing on the essentials needed for comfortable and efficient driving. Its compact size made it suitable for city living, while its interior provided ample space for passengers and cargo.

Positive Owner Experience: The Sunny 1.3 FE garnered positive reviews from owners who valued its no-nonsense approach to transportation. Its simplicity, combined with its reliability, left a lasting impression on those who drove it.

In retrospect, the 1996-1997 Nissan Sunny 1.3 FE represents a vehicle that embraced simplicity and practicality as its defining features. It offered an affordable and dependable means of transportation that met the needs of budget-conscious individuals seeking a reliable daily driver. While it may have faded into automotive history, its legacy as a sensible and economical choice remains intact.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about the 1996-1997 Nissan Sunny 1.3 FE