1981 Nissan Laurel (JC31) Dimensions, Size & Specs

The curb weight of the Nissan Laurel (JC31) ranges from 1200 kg to 1270 kg (2645 to 2800 lbs), depending on the variant and equipment. Its maximum weight, which includes passengers and cargo, ranges from 1260 kg to 1730 kg (2777 to 3814 lbs). This weight range reflects the car’s build for robust performance and durability without compromising handling.

With a width of 1690 mm (66.5 inches), the Nissan Laurel (JC31) is relatively narrow compared to modern sedans, aiding in easier maneuverability and parking in tight urban spaces. This width provides a comfortable cabin while still allowing the vehicle to navigate through narrow streets and crowded environments typical of the 1980s.

The Nissan Laurel (JC31) stands at 1400 mm (55.1 inches) tall, offering a low-slung profile that enhances aerodynamics and sporty styling. Despite its relatively low height, the cabin is designed to maximize headroom and comfort for passengers while maintaining a sleek sedan silhouette.

The roof load capacity of the Nissan Laurel (JC31) is 80 kg (176 lbs). This allows owners to safely install roof racks or carriers for carrying extra luggage, bicycles, or small sporting equipment. However, it is important to distribute the load evenly and stay within this limit to avoid compromising vehicle stability and safety.

The Nissan Laurel (JC31) came equipped with 5.5J x 14 rims and 185/70 R14 tires as standard. This tire size supports a good balance between ride comfort and road grip, contributing to the vehicle’s stable handling characteristics on a variety of road conditions typical during its production years.

Given its length of 4635 mm (182.5 inches), width of 1690 mm (66.5 inches), and height of 1400 mm (55.1 inches), the Nissan Laurel (JC31) comfortably fits into a standard residential garage. Standard garages typically accommodate vehicles up to around 6 meters (about 236 inches) in length and 2.4 meters (about 94 inches) in width, leaving enough room for door opening and movement around the car.

The Nissan Laurel (JC31) marked a modest increase in size compared to its predecessor generation. While retaining the sedan body style and general proportions, the JC31 received longer and wider dimensions, improving interior space and ride quality. This evolution reflected Nissan’s aim to offer a more comfortable and modern vehicle in the early 1980s, adapting to customer expectations for roomier cars.

In comparison to other mid-size sedans from the early 1980s, the Nissan Laurel (JC31) falls within the typical size range but is slightly more compact than some American and European counterparts. Its length of 4635 mm (182.5 inches) and width of 1690 mm (66.5 inches) make it ideal for urban environments and narrower roads common in Japan, whereas many western sedans tended to be larger, focusing more on spacious interiors and larger engine bays.

The Nissan Laurel (JC31) sedan is notable for balancing a streamlined, aerodynamic profile with generous interior space relative to its compact external dimensions. Its size was optimized for Japan’s urban landscape, providing drivers with ease of handling, parking, and fuel efficiency without sacrificing passenger comfort. The design emphasis on moderate width and low height gave it a sleek, sporty appearance uncommon among some more traditional sedans in the early 1980s.