Nissan Bluebird SSS is not just a car, but a symbol of the era of Japanese sports sedans of the 1980s. Combining elegant business-class design with aggressive turbo engines and rear-wheel drive, the model has become a legend thanks to its participation in racing. Group A and cult status among JDM car lovers. In this article we will look at all generations Bluebird SSS (from R31 to U13), their technical features, weaknesses and why these cars are so in demand among collectors today.
Reduction SSS in the title it stands for Super Sports Sedan - and this is not a marketing ploy. Under the hood of these cars there were turbocharged engines of the series CA18DET And RB20DET, manual transmissions with limited slip and sports suspensions that made Bluebird serious competitor for Toyota Chaser And Mazda Luce. But what makes this model unique even after 30+ years?
History of the Nissan Bluebird SSS: from R31 to U13
Debut Nissan Bluebird SSS took place in 1983 with the release of generation R31 - the first to receive the prefix SSS. This was a time when Japanese automakers were actively exploring turbocharging, and Nissan did not stand aside. The model was positioned as a sports version of the standard Bluebird, but with a radically different character.
B 1987 a generation has appeared U11, which has become the most popular among enthusiasts. This is the version that was raced Group A and received the legendary engine RB20DET (2.0 l, 210 hp in the civilian version). B 1991 came out U12, and then U13 (1996), but they no longer had such a sports background - Nissan shifted focus to comfort and front-wheel drive.
- 📅 1983–1987 — R31 (first generation SSS, engines CA18ET/CA18DET)
- 🏁 1987–1991 — U11 (peak popularity RB20DET, participation in Group A)
- 🔄 1991–1996 — U12/U13 (switch to front-wheel drive, loss of sporting spirit)
It is the U11 that is considered the most desirable among collectors, thanks to its RB20DET turbo engine, all-wheel drive (optional) and success in motorsports.Later models (U12/U13) no longer had such sporting potential, but remained reliable family sedans.
Technical characteristics: engines, gearboxes, suspension
With my heart Nissan Bluebird SSS There have always been turbocharged engines. Depending on the generation and market, the car was equipped with the following engines:
| Generation | Engine | Volume | Power | Drive |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| R31 (1983–1987) | CA18ET | 1.8 l | 130–140 hp | Rear/Full |
| U11 (1987–1991) | RB20DET | 2.0 l | 210–220 hp* | Rear/Full |
| U12 (1991–1996) | SR20DET | 2.0 l | 205 hp | Front/Full |
* - in racing versions Group A power reached 300+ hp thanks to modifications.
Gearboxes on SSS were either 5-speed manual (with limited slip on rear-wheel drive versions), or 4-speed automatics. The suspension is classic for that time: double wishbones at the front And multi-link rear (on R31/U11). Brakes are disc on all wheels, with ABS in top trim levels.
⚠️ Attention: Often found on the secondary market Bluebird SSS with "tired" turbines T25/T28. Before purchasing, be sure to check the boost pressure and condition of the intercooler - replacing them will cost 50 000–100 000 ₽.
- CA18DET (1.8T)
- RB20DET (2.0T)
- SR20DET (2.0T)
- Other
Nissan Bluebird SSS in motorsport: success in Group A
Nissan Bluebird SSS (U11) became one of the most successful models in the championship Japanese Touring Car Championship (JTCC) And Australian Touring Car Championship (ATCC) in class Group A. The homogeneous version for racing received:
- 🔥 Engine RB20DET with increased boost (up to 300+ hp)
- 🏎️ All wheel drive ATTESA (optional for civilian versions)
- 🛡️ Reinforced suspension and brakes from Nissan Skyline
- 🚀 Lightweight body panel (aluminum, carbon)
The most famous success is the victory in 1990 in ATCC with pilot Jim Richards driving. However, due to changes in regulations in the early 1990s Nissan closed the program and Bluebird SSS gave way Skyline GT-R.
Why did Nissan abandon the Bluebird SSS in motorsports?
In 1993, the Group A rules were abolished, and new WTCC regulations required front-wheel drive cars. In addition, Nissan focused on developing the Skyline GT-R, which was already dominating racing.
Weaknesses and problems of Nissan Bluebird SSS
Despite its legendary status, Bluebird SSS has a number of typical “diseases” that you should know about before purchasing:
- Turbine and intercooler: Resource of standard turbine T25 - about 150,000 km. After this, problems with oil leakage and pressure drop begin. Replacement with T28 or Garrett will cost 30 000–60 000 ₽.
- Body corrosion: Arches, sills and the bottom are especially vulnerable. On R31/U11 The back of the roof near the antenna often rots.
- Suspension: Silent blocks and ball joints “live” no more 80,000–100,000 km. The cost of a complete overhaul is from 50 000 ₽.
- Electrical: Problems with
ECU, oxygen sensors and injection system wiring. The speedometer often glitches.
⚠️ Attention: If upon examination Bluebird SSS you notice oil in the intercooler or blue smoke from the exhaust - this is a sign of wear on the turbine or rings. Repairs will cost 100 000+ ₽.
☑️ What to check before buying Nissan Bluebird SSS
Tuning Nissan Bluebird SSS: how to increase power
Nissan Bluebird SSS - an ideal platform for tuning, especially versions with RB20DET. Here are the main directions of modifications:
- 🔥 Boost increase: Replacing the turbine with T28 or Garrett GT2860 (+50–80 hp). Requires upgrade of fuel system and intercooler.
- 💻 Chip tuning: Firmware
ECU(For example, Haltech or Nistune) allows you to increase power to 280–300 hp on a standard block. - 🔧 Transmission reinforcement: At higher capacities 300 hp Clutch will need to be replacedNismo or OS Giken) and axle shafts.
- 🎯 Suspension: Popular sets from Tein, KW or BC Racing with adjustable hardness.
Budget tuning (up to 100 000 ₽): replacing the air filter with a zero filter, exhaust 4-2-1, firmware ECU (+30–50 hp).
Serious upgrade (from 300 000 ₽): turbo kit, reinforced gearbox, brakes Brembo, forged wheels.
Before tuning the engine, be sure to check the condition of the piston group. RB20DET engines with mileage >200,000 km often require major repairs (cost from RUB 150,000).
Prices for Nissan Bluebird SSS on the secondary market (2026)
Cost Nissan Bluebird SSS highly depends on the generation, condition and rarity of the configuration. Here are the current prices for the Russian market:
| Generation | Condition | Price, ₽ | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| R31 SSS (1983–1987) | Satisfactory | 300 000–500 000 | Often with rotten frame, CA18ET engine |
| U11 SSS (1987–1991, RB20DET) | good | 800 000–1 500 000 | The most popular option |
| U11 SSS (ATTESA all-wheel drive) | Excellent | 1 800 000–2 500 000 | Rare equipment, often tuned |
| U12 SSS (1991–1996, SR20DET) | Satisfactory | 250 000–400 000 | Less sporty, front-wheel drive |
At auctions in Japan (Yahoo! Auctions, Goonews) prices for U11 SSS in good condition start from ¥1 500 000 (about 800 000 ₽). Examples with racing history or low mileage may cost ¥3 000 000+.
The most expensive versions are the U11 with ATTESA all-wheel drive and racing history. Even “killed” R31s with a CA18DET engine cost at least 300,000 rubles due to their rarity.
Owner reviews: pros and cons
Owners Nissan Bluebird SSS The following advantages are highlighted:
- ✅ Dynamics: Acceleration to 100 km/h in 6.5–7.5 sec (this is very fast for the 1980s).
- ✅ Handling: Rear-wheel drive and a balanced suspension make the car predictable in drifting.
- ✅ Rarity: Almost never seen on the roads, it always attracts attention.
The most often mentioned disadvantages are:
- ❌ Fuel consumption: 12–15 l/100 km in the city (turbo engines are not economical).
- ❌ Spare parts: Suspension and body parts have to be ordered from Japan (delivery takes 2–3 months).
- ❌ Comfort: Noisy cabin, hard suspension - this is not a car for family trips.
Expert opinion:
"Bluebird SSS U11 - this is 90% Skyline R32 feels like it, but at half the price. If you want a reliable drift car or a retro sports sedan, this is one of the best options. But be prepared to invest in maintenance." — Alexey, owner of SSS since 2018.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions about Nissan Bluebird SSS
Which engine is more reliable: CA18DET or RB20DET?
RB20DET It is considered more durable and tuning-ready, but more expensive to repair. CA18DET simpler and cheaper, but its resource is limited 200,000–250,000 km without capital. Better for daily use RB20DET, for drifting - CA18DET (easier and cheaper to replace).
Is it possible to install a Skyline engine on a Bluebird SSS?
Yes, RB25DET or RB26DETT from Skyline R32/R33 become without major modifications (you need to adapt the mounts and exhaust). But this requires registration of changes with the traffic police and costs from 300 000 ₽ only for the motor.
How much does insurance cost for a Nissan Bluebird SSS?
In Russia Bluebird SSS belongs to the "retro car" category, so insurance OSAGO will cost 8,000–12,000 ₽/year (depending on power). CASCO Few companies offer, the cost is from 50,000 ₽/year.
Where is it better to buy a Nissan Bluebird SSS: in Russia or Japan?
In Japan there is more choice and prices are lower (especially at auctions), but you need to consider:
- 📦 Delivery cost: 150 000–250 000 ₽.
- 📄 Customs clearance: 30–50% of the cost (depending on engine size).
- 🔧 Risk of hidden problems (corrosion, accidents).
In Russia, cars are more expensive, but you can inspect them before purchasing and avoid surprises.
What kind of oil should I put in RB20DET?
Semi-synthetic or synthetic with viscosity is recommended 10W-40 or 5W-40 (For example, Motul 8100 X-Cess or Liqui Moly Leichtlauf). Replacement interval - every 7,000–10,000 km (turbo engines are more sensitive to oil quality).