Nissan Serena C23
The mid-engined, rear-drive family bus that prioritised space over speed.
- Power
- 126 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 12.4 s
- Top speed
- 106 mph
About the Nissan Serena C23
The first-generation Nissan Serena (C23) was a unique entry in the 1990s MPV market, featuring a front mid-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout derived from its commercial Vanette roots. While its narrow body and high centre of gravity led to a reputation for somewhat tippy handling, the 2.0-litre SR20DE petrol engine provided respectable performance compared to the notoriously slow diesel variants. In the UK, it was a popular alternative to the Renault Espace, offering dual sliding doors and flexible seating for up to eight passengers. Today, it is remembered as a quirky, utilitarian relic of Nissan's bubble-era engineering, though few well-preserved examples remain on British roads.
Nissan Serena C23 specs
The Nissan Serena C23 produces 126 bhp (94 kW) and 169 Nm (125 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 12.4 seconds and has a top speed of 106 mph (170 km/h).
| Make | Nissan |
|---|---|
| Model | Serena |
| Generation | C23 |
| Trim | 2.0 SLX |
| Years | 1991–2002 |
| Type | Van |
| Body style | MPV |
| Country | Japan |
| Engine | 2.0-litre 16v inline-four |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,998 cc (2.0 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 126 bhp (94 kW) at 6,000 rpm |
| Torque | 169 Nm (125 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 6,500 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 12.4 s |
| Top speed | 106 mph (170 km/h) |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,496 kg (3,298 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 84 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
Nissan Serena C23 rarity in CarSpot
The Nissan Serena C23 is a Common card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 0 out of 100. Everyday cars you can spot on almost any street. A Common card is worth 10 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 Serena C23 fun facts
- The Serena's engine is located under the front seats, a layout that technically makes it a mid-engined vehicle for better weight distribution.
- The 2.3-litre diesel version of this generation was once named by Auto Express as the slowest passenger car in their 0-60 mph testing, taking nearly 28 seconds.
- In the UK, the Serena was built at Nissan's Barcelona plant in Spain to avoid the strict import quotas placed on Japanese-made cars at the time.