🚘 Nissan Gloria — The JDM Luxury Sedan with Style
By Paquito Jr Conde | August 12, 2025
The Nissan Gloria isn’t just another sedan — it’s a piece of Japanese automotive history. Built for executives and style-conscious drivers, it blends comfort, performance, and rarity into one sleek package. From its elegant design to its smooth VQ engines, here’s why the Gloria still captures attention decades later.
Nissan Gloria — Quick Guide 🚘
Overview
The Nissan Gloria is a classic Japanese luxury sedan that ran from 1959 to 2004. Built mostly for the JDM (Japanese Domestic Market), it shared platforms with the Cedric but often had a slightly more upscale and sporty vibe. It was aimed at executives and buyers wanting a comfortable, refined ride — think of it as Nissan's answer to the Toyota Crown and other Japanese luxury sedans.
Generations
There are 11 generations (starting with the S40 in 1959 through the Y34 in 2004). The later models — especially the Y31 through Y34 (1987–2004) — are the ones most collectors and enthusiasts talk about today.
Specs — Final Generation (Y34, example: 2003 Gloria 300 Ultima)
| Body style | 4-door sedan |
|---|---|
| Layout | Front-engine, rear-wheel drive (FR) |
| Engines | 2.5L V6 (VQ25DD), 3.0L V6 (VQ30DD), 3.0L turbo V6 (VQ30DET) |
| Power | About 210–280 hp (depending on engine) |
| Transmissions | 4-speed auto / 5-speed auto |
| 0–100 km/h | ~7.5 sec (turbo model) |
| Top speed | ~220 km/h |
| Fuel economy | ~8–10 km/L (mixed driving) |
| Dimensions (approx.) | Length ~4,885 mm • Width ~1,765 mm • Height ~1,460 mm |
| Weight | ~1,600–1,750 kg |
| Seating | 5 |
| Safety | ABS, airbags, traction control (varies by trim) |
| Luxury features | Leather, wood trim, climate control, nav, sunroof (higher trims) |
Pros ✅
- Luxury for less — you get leather, wood trim and nice features for far less than equivalent European models.
- Comfortable, smooth ride — built with cruising comfort in mind.
- Proven VQ engines — smooth and reliable when well cared for.
- Rear-wheel drive — gives nicer handling balance than many FWD sedans.
- Unique JDM style — stands out, especially outside Japan.
- Solid build quality — many examples remain tidy and well-built even with age.
Cons ❌
- Fuel use — big V6s and older autos aren’t the most economical.
- Parts can be hard to find outside Japan — body and interior parts may require importing.
- Smaller aftermarket — fewer tuning or upgrade options compared to more popular platforms.
- Age-related issues — electrical gremlins, worn suspension, and other age wear are common on 20+ year cars.
- Niche resale — it may take longer to sell because the buyer pool is smaller.
Who should buy one? 🤔
- If you want a classy, uncommon JDM luxury sedan that turns heads.
- If you prioritize a quiet, comfortable cruiser rather than sharp sports handling.
- If you like Nissan’s VQ engine pedigree and RWD dynamics.
- If you enjoy owning something with character and history — it’s a conversation starter at meets.