1982 Nissan Sunny I (B11) Dimensions, Size & Specs

The Nissan Sunny I (B11) has a curb weight of approximately 840 kg (1,852 lbs). This lightweight construction positively affects its fuel efficiency, allowing the car to achieve economical fuel consumption figures typical for compact sedans of the era. A lower curb weight means the engine requires less power to propel the vehicle, resulting in more responsive acceleration and nimble handling characteristics. Additionally, the reduced mass improves braking efficiency and overall driving dynamics, making the Sunny I agile and efficient, especially in city driving scenarios. The combination of light curb weight and compact dimensions was a significant advantage for the Sunny I, contributing to its popularity as a reliable and economical transportation option in the 1980s.

The Nissan Sunny I (B11) has a maximum weight capacity (gross vehicle weight) of approximately 1,285 kg (2,833 lbs). This figure includes the vehicle's curb weight plus the allowable payload — passengers, cargo, and fuel. With a curb weight of 840 kg, the car can carry up to around 445 kg (981 lbs) of additional weight, which equates to roughly four adult passengers plus luggage or cargo. While it is primarily designed as a compact sedan, the load capacity is adequate for typical daily usage, including family outings or commuting. However, it is advisable to avoid overloading to maintain optimal handling, braking, and safety.

The Nissan Sunny I (B11) is fitted with 5J 13 rims, and tire options typically include sizes such as 155/80 R13, 175/70 R13, and 155/75 R13. The 13-inch rim size corresponds to a balance between responsive handling and comfort. Narrow tire widths (155 mm or 175 mm) reduce rolling resistance contributing to better fuel efficiency. The higher aspect ratios (around 70 to 80) provide a taller sidewall which enhances ride comfort by absorbing road irregularities, an essential feature given the road conditions of the era. These tire sizes work harmoniously with the lightweight chassis of the Sunny I to provide a smooth and stable ride with predictable handling characteristics suitable for a compact sedan.

Yes, the Nissan Sunny I (B11), with its approximate length of 4,150 mm (13.6 feet), width of 1,595 mm (5.2 feet), and height about 1,320 mm (4.3 feet), generally fits comfortably into a standard home garage. Typical garage dimensions range from 2.4 to 3 meters (8 to 10 feet) in width and about 5 to 6 meters (16.4 to 19.7 feet) in length, which offers adequate space for the Sunny I alongside room for the driver to enter and exit the vehicle easily. Its compact size is particularly advantageous for urban homeowners with limited garage space, ensuring that the car can be stored securely without causing tight squeezes or requiring significant maneuvering.

Compared to its predecessor, the Nissan Sunny B210, the Sunny I (B11) features modest dimensional updates typical of automotive evolution in the early 1980s. The B11 generation generally saw slightly increased length and width, aimed at improving interior space and comfort without sacrificing maneuverability. For example, the B210 measured around 4,020 mm (158.3 inches) in length compared to approximately 4,150 mm (163.4 inches) for the B11. The width also expanded slightly from about 1,560 mm (61.4 inches) to 1,595 mm (62.8 inches). Height remained similar or slightly reduced to enhance aerodynamics. These changes contributed to a roomier cabin and a more contemporary exterior appearance while maintaining the compact profile that made the Sunny popular. The evolution resulted in better passenger comfort and a more modern aesthetic while preserving its renowned practicality.

The Nissan Sunny I (B11) is comparable in size and weight to many compact sedans from the early 1980s, such as the Toyota Corolla E70, Honda Civic third generation, and Ford Escort Mk3. Dimensionally, it fits well within the compact segment, with length around 4,150 mm (163.4 inches), width about 1,595 mm (62.8 inches), and an approximate curb weight of 840 kg (1,852 lbs). For instance, the Toyota Corolla E70 had similar length ranging from 4,100 to 4,200 mm and curb weights around 900 kg. The Honda Civic of the era was slightly smaller in weight but comparable in footprint. These specifications placed the Sunny I in a competitive zone, offering a balance between interior space, manageable external dimensions, and light weight that benefited economy and performance. Its relatively light weight often gave it an edge in fuel efficiency and nimble handling compared to some competitors.

Despite the compact exterior dimensions of the Nissan Sunny I (B11), the sedan is designed to comfortably seat four to five passengers. Efficient interior packaging allows for adequate legroom and headroom within the cabin, suitable for small families or daily commuting. The width of approximately 1,595 mm (62.8 inches) supports a reasonable shoulder room for front and rear occupants, while the relatively low height of 1,320 mm (51.9 inches) maintains a streamlined profile without overly compromising headroom. The sedan format maximizes passenger comfort more than hatchbacks of similar size, offering conventional trunk space for luggage and cargo. Overall, the interior suits practical urban and suburban use with sufficient space balancing compactness and comfort.

The Nissan Sunny I (B11) was typically offered with a range of small displacement four-cylinder engines focusing on fuel efficiency and reliability rather than outright performance. Engine sizes commonly ranged from 1.3 to 1.5 liters with carbureted setups producing modest horsepower suitable for city driving and highway cruising. Due to the car's lightweight design (840 kg / 1,852 lbs curb weight), even these modest engines provided adequate acceleration and nimble handling. Suspension and chassis tuning emphasized comfort and stability, making the B11 a practical daily driver. The overall mechanical simplicity contributed to lower maintenance costs and high durability, factors that helped cement the Sunny's reputation for dependability during its production run from 1982 to 1987.

The Nissan Sunny I (B11) typically employs a front-engine, front-wheel-drive layout, which became a standard for compact sedans of the era due to its efficient use of space and improved traction in various driving conditions. The front suspension generally features MacPherson struts, while the rear suspension uses a solid axle with coil springs or torsion beam setup depending on the market variant. This configuration balances ride comfort and handling precision by providing predictable behavior on both smooth and uneven roads. The lightweight chassis coupled with front-wheel drive delivers agile handling, easy maneuverability, and responsive steering, making the Sunny I well-suited for urban environments and everyday driving.