1983 Nissan Micra (K10) Dimensions, Size & Specs

The Nissan Micra K10 has a curb weight of 750 kg (approximately 1653 pounds), which is relatively light even by compact car standards. This lightweight construction plays a significant role in improving its fuel efficiency, as less energy is needed to move a lighter vehicle, making the Micra K10 economical to run — a crucial factor for city driving and daily commutes. Additionally, the lower weight contributes positively to handling, allowing for responsive steering and easier maneuverability. Drivers benefit from a car that feels agile in urban traffic, tight parking situations, and narrower roads. The combination of light weight and compact dimensions made the K10 a popular choice for budget-conscious buyers looking for practical transportation.

Yes, the Nissan Micra K10 comfortably fits inside a standard residential garage, thanks to its compact size. Most standard garages typically have clear dimensions around 2,400 mm (8 feet) wide and 5,500 mm (18 feet) long. Given its length of approximately 3,600 mm (141.7 inches or about 11.8 feet) and width near 1,520 mm (59.8 inches or nearly 5 feet), the Micra K10 leaves ample maneuvering space around the vehicle for opening doors and storage. The car’s modest height of about 1,400 mm (55.1 inches) means ceiling clearance is hardly an issue. This small footprint makes the K10 well-suited for urban homeowners or those living in apartments with designated parking garages.

The Nissan Micra K10 is a four-door hatchback designed primarily as a compact city car, offering seating for four occupants. Its interior space is modest, befitting its small exterior footprint. The car provides adequate headroom and legroom for front passengers, though rear-seat space is more limited, suitable for shorter journeys or smaller passengers. The hatchback design allows for flexible cargo arrangements, with rear seats that can be folded down to increase luggage capacity. Although it’s not designed for luxurious space, the K10 efficiently uses its compact dimensions to provide practical utility for small families or individuals needing reliable and convenient transportation in urban areas.

The Nissan Micra K10 was the first generation of the Micra lineup, so it does not have a direct predecessor model under the same name. However, when compared to similar compact hatchbacks of the late 1970s and early 1980s, the K10 was characterized by its modern, compact design and efficient packaging. Its dimensions were quite small even by the standards of city cars at the time, which made it stand out for its practical use of space, light weight, and excellent fuel economy. In essence, rather than comparing to a direct predecessor, the K10 set its own benchmark for affordable, compact urban transportation for Nissan.

The Nissan Micra K10’s compact dimensions and low curb weight made it highly competitive with similar city hatchbacks of the 1980s, such as the Ford Fiesta Mk1, Volkswagen Polo Mk2, and Honda City. At approximately 3,600 mm (141.7 inches) in length and 750 kg (1653 pounds) in weight, it was slightly smaller and lighter than many of its contemporaries, which typically ranged from 3,700 to 3,900 mm (145.7 to 153.5 inches) in length and 800 to 900 kg (1763 to 1984 pounds) in weight. This smaller footprint helped the Micra excel in dense urban areas where parking space was limited. Its lightweight design emphasized fuel efficiency and nimbleness, making it particularly appealing to budget-conscious drivers looking for reliable transportation without unnecessary bulk.

The Nissan Micra K10 typically features a ground clearance in the range of 140 mm to 150 mm (approximately 5.5 to 6 inches), which is a standard measurement for small hatchbacks of its era. This ground clearance allows the vehicle to navigate common urban obstacles such as speed bumps, potholes, and uneven road surfaces with relative ease while maintaining a low center of gravity that favors stable handling. It’s high enough to help prevent underbody damage on typical city roads but low enough to ensure good aerodynamic performance and driving dynamics. This balance makes the Micra K10 practical for everyday urban driving while sustaining responsive and stable cornering.

The Nissan Micra K10 offers a modest cargo space reflective of its compact hatchback design. Typically, the cargo volume behind the rear seats is around 150 to 250 liters (about 5.3 to 8.8 cubic feet), which can be expanded by folding down the rear seats to create a flat loading floor. This flexible cargo area is practical for groceries, small luggage, or daily essentials, making the Micra K10 well-suited for urban lifestyles and short trips. While not spacious compared to larger vehicles, it makes efficient use of its limited space to serve the needs of city drivers who prioritize maneuverability and economy over extensive luggage capacity.

The Nissan Micra K10 utilizes a simple yet effective suspension design typical of small hatchbacks of its time, including MacPherson struts at the front and a torsion beam setup at the rear. This compact chassis layout, combined with the car’s lightweight (750 kg or 1653 pounds) and small size, delivers nimble handling characteristics favorable for city driving. The relatively short wheelbase and overall length allow for tight turning angles, which is advantageous in crowded urban streets and parking lots. Ride comfort is balanced with firm suspension tuning to manage small road imperfections, making it versatile for daily commuting, although it may not absorb rough surfaces as well as larger or more modern vehicles built with advanced suspension technology.

The Nissan Micra K10 sports a simple, boxy design typical of early 1980s hatchbacks, with clean lines and functional styling. It features a small front grille, round headlights, and modest bumpers that emphasize practicality over flair. The hatchback rear contributes to its compact footprint and ease of access to cargo. Its lightweight construction and minimalistic design help reduce production costs while providing reliable performance and ease of maintenance. The overall aesthetic reflects the emphasis on economy and function, making the K10 a no-nonsense city car choice during its decade-long production.