🚗 Nissan President — Japan’s Ultimate Luxury Limousine
By Paquito Jr Conde | August 12, 2025
The Nissan President wasn’t just a car — it was a symbol of prestige and comfort, built for dignitaries, executives, and those who demanded the best. Produced from 1965 to 2010, this rare flagship blends timeless design, powerful V8 performance, and unmatched rear-seat luxury. Let’s take a deep dive into its rich history and why it remains a collector’s dream today.
🚗 Nissan President — Japan’s Flagship Luxury Limousine
Here’s a closer look at the Nissan President, Nissan’s legendary executive-class limousine that spanned multiple generations and embodied pure luxury and comfort.
📜 Overview & History
The Nissan President was the brand’s full-size luxury flagship, produced from 1965 to 2010. It was sold mainly in Japan through Nissan Store and Blue Stage dealerships, with limited exports to places like Singapore and Hong Kong.
🕰 Key Generations & Specifications
1️⃣ First Generation (H150, 1965–1973)
- Dimensions: 5,045 mm L × 1,795 mm W × 1,460 mm H, wheelbase 2,850 mm, weight ~1,600 kg
- Engines: 3.0 L inline-6 / 4.0 L V8 (Y40) ~180 PS
2️⃣ Second Generation (H250, 1973–1989)
- Longer body with more formal limousine styling, especially in VIP trims
- Engine: 4.4 L V8 (Y44E) with EFI, ~200 hp & 253 lb-ft torque
3️⃣ Third Generation (JHG50, ~1990–2002)
- Dimensions: 5,225 mm L, wheelbase 3,030 mm, weight ~1,950 kg
- Engine: 4.5 L VH45DE V8, DOHC, ~270 PS & 394 Nm
- Multi-link suspension, V-TCS traction control, viscous LSD, rear-seat airbags
- Luxury touches: silk-wool or leather seats, ultra-quiet cabin (~62 dB at 100 km/h), power seating with auto-lifter, rear passenger controls
4️⃣ Fourth Generation (PGF50, 2003–2010)
- Shared platform with Nissan Cima (Y50)
- Engine: VK45DE 4.5 L V8 ~340 PS & 451 Nm
- Available as 4- or 5-seaters; high-end 4-seat version had Bose stereo, rear-seat adjustment for the front passenger
⚡ Special Electric Variant (1991)
- DC motor, 24 kW (~32 PS)
- Top speed: 40 km/h, 0–40 km/h in ~9.5s
- Range: ~100 km — built for ceremonial and parade use
✅ Pros
- Prestigious heritage — once favored by Japanese Prime Ministers
- Ultimate executive comfort with premium materials and quiet ride
- Strong and smooth V8 engines
- Advanced engineering for its era
⚠️ Cons
- Rare parts and potentially expensive maintenance
- Some mid-era interior quality complaints
- Not sporty — designed for comfort, not performance
- Discontinued in 2010, no direct modern replacement
💡 Why Choose the Nissan President?
If you value classic prestige, rear-seat luxury, and a unique piece of Japanese automotive history, the Nissan President is a standout choice. However, it’s best suited for collectors or enthusiasts willing to commit to its upkeep.
📊 Summary Table
| Generation | Years | Engine | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| H150 | 1965–1973 | 3.0 L I6 / 4.0 L V8 | Classic flagship; Japanese leadership prestige |
| H250 | 1973–1989 | 4.4 L V8 (Y44E) | Limousine styling; VIP trim |
| JHG50 | ~1990–2002 | 4.5 L V8 (VH45DE) | Plush ride, advanced tech, rear-seat luxury |
| PGF50 | 2003–2010 | 4.5 L V8 (VK45DE) | Shared with Cima; ultra-luxury 4-seat option |
| Electric | 1991 | DC motor (~32 PS) | Parade vehicle; unique electric concept |