1996 Nissan Sunny 1.5 EX saloon Splend Specs

OVERVIEW

With a fuel consumption of 30.5 mpg US - 36.6 mpg UK - 7.7 L/100km, a weight of 2623 lbs (1190 kg), the Nissan Sunny 1.5 EX saloon Splend has a water cooling 4 cylinder DOHC16 valve engine, a Regular gasoline engine GA15DE. This engine GA15DE produces a maximum power of 106.4 PS (105 bhp - 78.2 kW) at 6000 rpm and a maximum torque of 135.3 Nm (99.8 lb.ft - 13.8 kg.m) at 4000 rpm. The engine power is transmitted to the road by the four wheel drive (4WD) with a 4AT gearbox. For stopping power, the Nissan Sunny 1.5 EX saloon Splend braking system includes Disk at the rear and Ventilated disk at the front. Chassis details - Nissan Sunny 1.5 EX saloon Splend has parallel link strut 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 25, 2024

Overview of the 1996-1997 Nissan Sunny 1.5 EX Saloon Splend

The 1996-1997 Nissan Sunny 1.5 EX Saloon Splend represented a notable offering in the compact sedan segment during its production years. This particular variant, available from August 1996 to April 1997, brought with it a range of features and specifications that catered to the needs of drivers seeking a reliable and fuel-efficient vehicle.

One of the distinguishing characteristics of the Sunny 1.5 EX Saloon Splend was its drivetrain configuration. It featured a 4WD (four-wheel drive) system, providing enhanced traction and stability, particularly in adverse road conditions. This drivetrain setup was well-suited for those living in regions with variable weather conditions.

The body type of this model was a sedan, offering a practical and spacious interior while maintaining a classic and timeless exterior design. With four doors and seating for up to five occupants, it struck a balance between comfort and practicality.

Under the hood, the Sunny 1.5 EX Saloon Splend was equipped with a 1.5-liter engine, denoted by the engine code GA15DE. This four-cylinder DOHC16 valve engine produced a respectable 106.4 PS (105 bhp) of power at 6000 rpm and 135.3 Nm of torque at 4000 rpm. These specifications made it a suitable choice for daily commuting and city driving.

Fuel efficiency was another strong suit of the Sunny Splend. It boasted a fuel consumption rate of 30.5 mpg US (36.6 mpg UK) in the 10/15 mode and an impressive 44.3 mpg US (53.2 mpg UK) in the 60 km/h mode. This efficiency, coupled with a moderate fuel tank capacity of 13.2 US gallons (10.9 UK gallons or 50 liters), meant fewer trips to the fuel station and cost savings for owners.

In terms of size and dimensions, the Sunny Splend measured 429.5 cm (169.09 inches) in length, 169 cm (66.53 inches) in width, and 141 cm (55.51 inches) in height. The interior offered comfortable dimensions as well, with a length of 185 cm (72.83 inches), a width of 139.5 cm (54.92 inches), and a height of 115 cm (45.27 inches). The wheelbase was 253.5 cm (99.8 inches), providing stability and a smooth ride, while the ground clearance stood at 15.5 cm (6.1 inches).

Safety features included driver and passenger airbags, side impact bars, and additional stoplights. These elements contributed to the overall safety of the vehicle, providing peace of mind for both the driver and passengers.

In summary, the 1996-1997 Nissan Sunny 1.5 EX Saloon Splend was a well-rounded compact sedan, offering a blend of performance, fuel efficiency, and safety features. Its 4WD capability, efficient engine, and spacious interior made it a practical choice for a variety of driving scenarios.

Engine Specifications and Performance

The heart of the 1996-1997 Nissan Sunny 1.5 EX Saloon Splend was its robust GA15DE engine, and it delivered a blend of performance and efficiency suitable for a compact sedan in its class.

Powering the Sunny Splend was a 1.5-liter engine with the engine code GA15DE. This four-cylinder engine featured Double Overhead Camshafts (DOHC) and 16 valves, a configuration that allowed for efficient air intake and exhaust, optimizing power output and fuel economy.

The engine was capable of producing a maximum power output of 106.4 PS (105 bhp) at 6000 rpm. This power was well-suited for daily driving needs, offering ample acceleration and responsiveness, particularly in city traffic.

In terms of torque, the GA15DE engine delivered a peak of 135.3 Nm (99.8 lb.ft) at 4000 rpm. Torque is essential for low-end power, making it easier to navigate through city streets and providing sufficient power for highway cruising.

The engine's design also contributed to its efficiency, making it a fuel-savvy choice. The Sunny Splend boasted a fuel consumption rate of 30.5 mpg US in the 10/15 mode and an impressive 44.3 mpg US in the 60 km/h mode. These figures reflected the balance between performance and economy that Nissan aimed to achieve with this model.

With its GA15DE engine, the 1996-1997 Nissan Sunny 1.5 EX Saloon Splend offered a practical and efficient powertrain that catered to the needs of daily commuters and drivers seeking a reliable and economical compact sedan.

Dimensions and Sizes of the Sunny 1.5 EX Saloon Splend

The 1996-1997 Nissan Sunny 1.5 EX Saloon Splend was designed with careful attention to size and dimensions, both inside and out, to provide a comfortable and practical driving experience.

Exterior Dimensions:
- Length: The Sunny Splend measured 429.5 cm (169.09 inches) in length, which contributed to its spacious cabin while maintaining a manageable size for urban driving and parking.
- Width: With a width of 169 cm (66.53 inches), this sedan struck a balance between providing interior space and maneuverability.
- Height: Standing at 141 cm (55.51 inches) in height, the Sunny Splend maintained a sleek and aerodynamic profile.

Interior Dimensions:
- Length: Inside the cabin, occupants enjoyed an interior length of 185 cm (72.83 inches), providing ample legroom for both front and rear passengers.
- Width: The interior width measured 139.5 cm (54.92 inches), ensuring comfortable seating for up to five occupants.
- Height: The interior height was 115 cm (45.27 inches), contributing to a spacious and airy feel within the cabin.

Wheelbase:
- The wheelbase of the Sunny Splend was 253.5 cm (99.8 inches), which not only enhanced stability during driving but also contributed to a smooth and comfortable ride.

Ground Clearance:
- With a ground clearance of 15.5 cm (6.1 inches), the Sunny Splend offered sufficient clearance to navigate varied road conditions while maintaining good handling characteristics.

Weight and Seating:
- The vehicle's weight stood at 1190 kg (2623 lbs), which was balanced well with its size and powertrain.
- It accommodated up to five passengers with its four-door design, making it suitable for families and commuters alike.

Turning Circle:
- The minimum turning circle, or turning diameter, was 5.1 meters, allowing for ease of maneuverability in tight spaces and city driving.

The 1996-1997 Nissan Sunny 1.5 EX Saloon Splend's thoughtfully designed dimensions contributed to its versatility as a compact sedan. Its exterior dimensions struck a balance between a spacious interior and practical urban driving, while the interior dimensions provided ample room for comfort. The combination of these factors made it a well-rounded choice for drivers seeking a compact yet roomy sedan.

Fuel Tank Capacity and Efficiency

The 1996-1997 Nissan Sunny 1.5 EX Saloon Splend offered a well-balanced approach to fuel efficiency, ensuring that drivers could enjoy both a respectable fuel tank capacity and economical mileage.

Fuel Tank Capacity:
- The Sunny Splend featured a fuel tank with a capacity of 13.2 US gallons (10.9 UK gallons or 50 liters). This fuel tank size struck a practical balance, providing a sufficient range for daily commuting and longer drives without making frequent stops at the fuel station.

Fuel Efficiency:
- Efficiency was a hallmark of this model. In the 10/15 mode, it achieved a fuel consumption rate of 30.5 mpg US (36.6 mpg UK), making it a cost-effective choice for drivers concerned about fuel expenses.
- In the 60 km/h mode, the Sunny Splend delivered an even more impressive fuel consumption rate of 44.3 mpg US (53.2 mpg UK), showcasing its ability to maximize mileage during highway cruising.

The combination of a reasonably sized fuel tank and impressive fuel efficiency figures made the 1996-1997 Nissan Sunny 1.5 EX Saloon Splend a practical and economical option for drivers. It allowed them to enjoy extended drives with fewer fuel stops while also minimizing their overall fuel expenses.

Fuel Consumption Figures

The 1996-1997 Nissan Sunny 1.5 EX Saloon Splend stood out for its impressive fuel consumption figures, making it an economical choice for drivers concerned about efficiency and minimizing fuel expenses.

City Driving (10/15 Mode):
- In city driving conditions, where stop-and-go traffic is common, the Sunny Splend demonstrated its efficiency by achieving a fuel consumption rate of 30.5 mpg US (36.6 mpg UK). This figure represented the vehicle's ability to deliver a reasonable mileage per gallon, contributing to cost savings for urban commuters.

Highway Efficiency (60 km/h Mode):
- On the open highway, the Sunny Splend truly shone in terms of fuel efficiency. It achieved an outstanding fuel consumption rate of 44.3 mpg US (53.2 mpg UK) at a steady speed of 60 km/h (approximately 37 mph). This impressive figure highlighted its capability to cover long distances with minimal fuel consumption, making it a great choice for highway cruising.

These fuel consumption figures underscored the vehicle's versatility, making it suitable for various driving scenarios. Whether navigating city streets or embarking on highway journeys, the 1996-1997 Nissan Sunny 1.5 EX Saloon Splend offered fuel efficiency that catered to the needs of cost-conscious drivers, while still delivering reliable and comfortable transportation.

Exploring the Engine Options

The 1996-1997 Nissan Sunny 1.5 EX Saloon Splend came equipped with a specific engine option that played a crucial role in shaping its performance and overall driving experience.

Engine Code:
- Under the hood, this variant featured the GA15DE engine. The GA15DE was a 1.5-liter, four-cylinder engine known for its efficiency and reliability. This engine was part of Nissan's GA series and was designed to provide a balance between power and fuel economy.

Performance Specifications:
- The GA15DE engine produced a maximum power output of 106.4 PS (105 bhp) at 6000 rpm, ensuring responsive acceleration and a capable performance in various driving situations.
- Its maximum torque reached 135.3 Nm (99.8 lb.ft) at 4000 rpm, contributing to smooth and confident power delivery.

Engine Type:
- This engine was equipped with water cooling, a 4-cylinder configuration, and Double Overhead Camshafts (DOHC) with 16 valves. These features allowed for efficient air intake and exhaust, optimizing both power and fuel efficiency.

Fuel Type:
- The GA15DE engine ran on regular gasoline, making it accessible and cost-effective to refuel.

The engine's design and specifications made it a well-rounded choice for the 1996-1997 Nissan Sunny 1.5 EX Saloon Splend. Its balance of power and efficiency suited the needs of drivers seeking a reliable and economical compact sedan. Whether for daily commuting or longer journeys, the engine provided the necessary performance to meet various driving demands.

Fuel Efficiency in Miles Per Gallon (MPG)

The 1996-1997 Nissan Sunny 1.5 EX Saloon Splend boasted impressive fuel efficiency figures, measured in Miles Per Gallon (MPG), making it a cost-effective and economical choice for drivers.

City Driving Efficiency:
- In city driving conditions, often characterized by frequent stops and starts, the Sunny Splend exhibited its fuel-efficient nature by achieving a commendable MPG rating. This efficiency made it a practical option for urban commuters, helping them save on fuel costs during daily drives.

Highway Cruising Efficiency:
- On the open highway, the Sunny Splend truly excelled in terms of fuel efficiency. Its MPG rating at a steady speed of 60 km/h (approximately 37 mph) reached an impressive figure. This outstanding highway efficiency meant that drivers could cover long distances without the need for frequent refueling stops, making it an ideal choice for road trips and highway cruising.

Overall Efficiency:
- The combination of good city and exceptional highway MPG ratings underlined the versatility of the Sunny Splend. It offered a well-rounded fuel efficiency profile, catering to the needs of drivers regardless of their typical driving scenarios.

These fuel efficiency figures were a key highlight of the 1996-1997 Nissan Sunny 1.5 EX Saloon Splend, offering drivers a balance between performance and economy. Whether navigating city streets or embarking on long journeys, this sedan provided the advantage of lower fuel consumption, translating into savings at the pump and reduced environmental impact.

Wheel Options for the Sunny Splend

The 1996-1997 Nissan Sunny 1.5 EX Saloon Splend offered a selection of wheel options to cater to various preferences and requirements, allowing drivers to customize the appearance and performance of their vehicles.

Wheel Size:
- While specific details regarding the size and type of wheels for the Sunny Splend may vary based on regional or market-specific variations, it typically featured wheels with a diameter of 13 inches.

Wheel Material:
- The standard wheel material for the Sunny Splend was aluminum. Aluminum wheels offered a balance of strength and reduced weight, contributing to improved fuel efficiency and handling.

Tire Dimensions:
- The tire dimensions for this model were typically represented as 165S R13, indicating a tire width of 165 millimeters, a sidewall aspect ratio of "S," and a 13-inch wheel diameter. These tire dimensions contributed to a comfortable ride and adequate grip on the road.

Variations in Wheel Design:
- Depending on market availability and specific trim levels, there might have been variations in wheel design. Manufacturers often offer different wheel options to cater to diverse tastes, allowing owners to personalize the appearance of their vehicles.

Alloy Wheels:
- In some instances, alloy wheels may have been available as an option or as part of higher trim levels. Alloy wheels are known for their aesthetic appeal and potential to enhance performance due to their lightweight construction.

Ultimately, the choice of wheel options for the 1996-1997 Nissan Sunny 1.5 EX Saloon Splend provided drivers with an opportunity to fine-tune the visual and functional aspects of their vehicles. Whether prioritizing aesthetics or performance, these options allowed for customization to suit individual preferences.

Trim Levels and Variants

The 1996-1997 Nissan Sunny 1.5 EX Saloon Splend was offered with various trim levels and variants, providing a range of options to cater to different preferences and needs of potential buyers. These trim levels and variants often included a mix of features and specifications, allowing customers to choose the one that best suited their requirements.

While the specific trim levels and variants could vary by market or region, here are some common features and distinctions that were typically associated with the Sunny Splend:

Base Trim: The base trim of the Sunny Splend usually offered a practical and cost-effective option for those looking for a reliable daily driver. It typically included essential features without many frills.

Mid-Level Trim: The mid-level trim of the Sunny Splend often added more convenience and comfort features. This could include power windows, power steering, and potentially upgraded interior materials.

High-End Trim: The high-end trim or top-of-the-line variant of the Sunny Splend typically featured the most advanced features and additional creature comforts. This could include items such as advanced audio systems, power-adjustable seats, and upgraded interior finishes.

Special Editions: Manufacturers occasionally released special edition versions of the Sunny Splend, which might include unique exterior colors, interior trims, or added technology features.

Market-Specific Variants: Depending on the market or region, there might have been specific variants or special features tailored to local preferences or regulations. These could include variations in emissions standards, safety features, or even available engines.

Overall, the range of trim levels and variants for the 1996-1997 Nissan Sunny 1.5 EX Saloon Splend ensured that there was a model to fit the needs and desires of a diverse customer base. Buyers could choose between basic, mid-level, or high-end options, allowing them to strike a balance between features and budget. Additionally, special editions and market-specific variants added further choices for those seeking a specific set of features or design elements.

Conclusion and Summary

In conclusion, the 1996-1997 Nissan Sunny 1.5 EX Saloon Splend offered a well-rounded and economical option in the compact sedan category. This variant, produced for a limited period, featured a 4WD drivetrain, a sleek sedan body type, and a 1.5-liter GA15DE engine known for its balance of power and efficiency.

The Sunny Splend's dimensions provided a spacious interior while maintaining a manageable footprint, making it suitable for urban driving and parking. It accommodated up to five passengers with four doors and offered a comfortable interior space.

The GA15DE engine delivered a maximum power output of 106.4 PS, ensuring responsive acceleration for daily driving needs. Its fuel efficiency, with impressive MPG figures both in city and highway conditions, made it a cost-effective choice for fuel-conscious drivers.

The availability of various wheel options allowed owners to customize the appearance and potentially enhance the performance of their vehicles. Alloy wheels and tire choices contributed to a personalized driving experience.

Trim levels and variants provided flexibility, allowing buyers to choose the features that best suited their preferences and needs. Special editions and market-specific variants added further diversity to the lineup.

In summary, the 1996-1997 Nissan Sunny 1.5 EX Saloon Splend was a versatile and economical choice in the compact sedan segment. Its blend of performance, efficiency, and customizable features catered to a range of driving requirements and tastes, making it a practical and reliable option for its time.

Frequently Asked Questions About the 1996-1997 Nissan Sunny 1.5 EX Saloon Splend