1983 Nissan Cedric (Y30) Dimensions, Size & Specs

Compared to its predecessor, the Nissan Cedric (Y30) offers a noticeably expanded footprint. The previous generation was somewhat shorter and narrower, measuring roughly around 4,600 mm (181 inches) in length and 1,670 mm (65.7 inches) in width, making the Y30 roughly 150 mm (6 inches) longer and 25 mm (1 inch) wider. This increase in size allowed for enhanced interior space, improved passenger comfort, and better overall presence on the road. The Y30 generation also incorporated more modern styling cues and improved aerodynamics with its elongated frame, which helped reduce drag and improve fuel efficiency relative to the boxier predecessor.

The Nissan Cedric (Y30) is roughly 1,695 mm (66.7 inches) wide, which is fairly typical for mid-size sedans of the early 1980s. This width provides sufficient interior shoulder room, particularly for front and rear passengers, enhancing comfort during longer journeys. Additionally, the width plays a significant role in the car's stability on the road, as a wider track enhances cornering capability and reduces body roll. From a driving perspective, this width balances well with urban usability, allowing the Y30 to navigate city streets and parking areas without excessive difficulty.

A standard home garage typically measures around 6 meters (about 19.7 feet) in length and 3 meters (about 9.8 feet) in width. The Nissan Cedric (Y30), with a length of approximately 4,750 mm (187 inches or about 15.4 feet) and a width of 1,695 mm (66.7 inches or about 5.6 feet), fits comfortably within these dimensions. This means that owners should generally not face any issues parking the Cedric (Y30) in a typical garage without spatial constraints. It also leaves some additional space for storage or side door opening inside the garage. However, garage height clearance is easily managed given the car's height of 1,375 mm (54.1 inches).

The height of the Nissan Cedric (Y30) sedan is approximately 1,375 mm (54.1 inches). This relatively low profile contributes to a sleek and aerodynamic silhouette compared to taller sedans of its time. The lower height enhances vehicle stability and reduces wind resistance, positively impacting fuel economy and high-speed handling. From a visibility standpoint, the Y30's height allows for adequate driver sight lines, especially when combined with large windows and well-placed mirrors characteristic of the Cedric's design. The low roofline also imparts a sportier and more elegant appearance fitting the luxury sedan segment it was targeted toward.

The Nissan Cedric (Y30) typically weighs around 1,400 to 1,500 kilograms (approximately 3,086 to 3,307 pounds), depending on specific trim levels and equipment. This mid-range weight is characteristic of mid-size luxury sedans of the era, offering a balanced trade-off between comfort, rigidity, and fuel efficiency. The weight supports a stable and smooth ride while maintaining sufficient agility for handling. Heavier body components and added luxury features in higher trims contributed to weight variations, but the Y30 remained proficient in powertrain performance for both city cruising and highway travel.

The Nissan Cedric (Y30) provides generous interior space typical of luxury sedans in the mid-size class. Thanks to its longer length and decent width, it offers comfortable seating for up to five adults with ample headroom and legroom. Compared with similar cars like the Toyota Crown or Mazda Luce of the mid-1980s, the Cedric holds its own by providing slightly more legroom, particularly in the rear seats, emphasizing passenger comfort. Additionally, the Y30's cabin is well-appointed, focusing on ergonomics and luxurious touches that were competitive for its market segment and period.

During its production from 1983 to 1987, the Nissan Cedric (Y30) competed with other Japanese luxury sedans such as the Toyota Crown, Mazda Luce, and Mitsubishi Debonair. Dimensionally, the Cedric is comparable in length and width to these competitors, generally ranging from 4,700 mm to 4,800 mm in length and about 1,680 mm to 1,700 mm in width. Its size gave it a solid presence, ideal for executives and families looking for comfort and moderate luxury. In terms of positioning, the Cedric offered a blend of Japanese engineering refinement and traditional luxury, making it attractive against its rivals in both performance and size.

The Nissan Cedric (Y30) is designed as a four-door sedan, catering primarily to customers seeking a spacious and formal luxury saloon. It features a conventional front-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout common for sedans of the era. Seating capacity is typically five people, arranged with two front bucket seats and a rear bench seat that comfortably accommodates three passengers. The interior prioritizes passenger comfort and accessibility, with ample legroom and headroom enhanced by its dimensional footprint, making it suitable for family use as well as executive transportation.

The Nissan Cedric (Y30) was produced from 1983 until 1987. Throughout its production span, the model underwent some minor facelifts and upgrades, primarily focusing on aesthetic refreshes such as minor grille and lighting changes. Mechanically, the Y30 offered a range of inline-six and V6 engine options catering to different markets, with improvements in fuel injection and emission controls in later years. Interior updates typically included upgraded materials and technology aimed at enhancing comfort and convenience to maintain competitiveness in the luxury sedan market.