Nissan Leopard, the pioneer of high-end cars
The first generation Nissan F30 “Leopard” was a representative of the high-end personal cars that appeared in 1980. The owner of the F30 Leopard, Mr. “Kazupon,” recalls his youth when he admired the Leopard, which was the pioneer of high-end cars at the time, and the urge to drive it led him to purchase it. He enjoys tinkering with old cars in a style that keeps the feel of the time.
The revolutionary pillar-less hardtop style
Nissan’s first generation F30 “Leopard” was available in two body types: a 4-door hardtop and a 2-door hardtop. It is not widely known that Mr. Shinichiro Sakurai, the famous creator of the Nissan “Skyline,” was heavily involved in its development.
The chassis was based on the Nissan Model 910 “Bluebird” and focused on form in pursuit of an advanced design model. Its features can be seen in the styling, which skillfully combines straight lines and a slanted nose. The most noteworthy point is the design with a wide glass area. In addition to the boldly slanted front and rear windows, the innovative and revolutionary pillar-less hardtop style with small windows on the side and rear quarter pillars was a major feature.
Fully renewed from a Yankee style to mature and relaxed specifications
Mr. Kazupon, who lives in Kagawa Prefecture, is the owner of a 1985 SGX. He bought it about 7 years ago, and at that time, it was a yellow tricolor with a long-nosed hood and all painted. The modified parts, including the hood, were returned to the genuine parts, leaving only a few parts.
When asked about the currently installed parts that are not genuine, he said the front lip spoiler, front grille, and 3-part rear wing for a modified Nissan Y31 “Seema” model.
The front and rear fenders that were beaten out to lower the ride height are also absolutely necessary equipment for this car, and the suspension was replaced with air suspension on all four wheels to lower the ride height. Thus, when the car is parked, the style is exquisitely balanced and the pulling tires fit with zero clearance.
The interior is also a remnant of the past, with a peach 30mm diameter steering wheel, bright red chinchilla seat covers, nostalgic audio system, and retrofit speakers. A trumpet is set in the engine compartment, and items that were once popular in one’s youth are casually installed in a relaxed atmosphere. For old-time car enthusiasts, the car was completed as one that reminds them of their youth.
The plan for the future is to maintain the status quo for a while. Rather than modifying the car, the style will be changed back to normal, and eventually, the car may be fitted with RS Watanabe 8-spoke wheels.
