Nissan Pao
A retro-modern adventure in a pint-sized package.
- Power
- 52 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 18.5 s
- Top speed
- 80 mph
- Est. value
- $6k–$14k
About the Nissan Pao
The Nissan Pao is the second of the four 'Pike' cars developed by Nissan's special projects group, designed to evoke the spirit of adventure with a nostalgic aesthetic. Built on the K10 Micra chassis, it features distinctive retro cues including external door hinges, flap-up windows inspired by the Citroën 2CV, and a split clamshell tailgate. Though it looks decades older, it offers modern 1980s reliability and was sold exclusively in Japan via a three-month reservation period. Its lightweight construction and tiny 1.0-litre engine make it a charming, if leisurely, city cruiser that has gained a significant global cult following.
Nissan Pao specs
The Nissan Pao produces 52 bhp (39 kW) and 75 Nm (55 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 18.5 seconds and has a top speed of 80 mph (129 km/h).
| Make | Nissan |
|---|---|
| Model | Pao |
| Trim | 1.0 |
| Years | 1989–1991 |
| Type | JDM |
| Body style | Hatchback |
| Country | Japan |
| Production | About 31,352 built |
| Engine | 1.0-litre carburetted inline-4 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 987 cc (1.0 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 52 bhp (39 kW) at 6,000 rpm |
| Torque | 75 Nm (55 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 6,500 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 18.5 s |
| Top speed | 80 mph (129 km/h) |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Front-wheel drive |
| Weight | 720 kg (1,587 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 72 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a Nissan Pao worth?
A typical Nissan Pao is estimated to be worth $5,500 – $14,000 (about £4,100 – £10,000).
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Nissan Pao rarity in CarSpot
The Nissan Pao is an Uncommon card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 36 out of 100. Hot hatches and premium sporty cars. An Uncommon card is worth 20 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Nissan Pao fun facts
- The name 'Pao' is derived from a Chinese word for the portable felt dwellings used by Mongolian nomads.
- Despite being a limited-run boutique car, Nissan received over 51,000 orders in just three months, far exceeding their initial expectations.
- The Pao's interior features a minimalist dashboard with a single large circular speedometer and a radio designed to look like a piece of 1950s home audio equipment.