Nissan Gloria is a name that for many car enthusiasts is associated with luxury, reliability and the unique style of the Japanese automobile industry of the 60s–90s. This sedan, produced from 1959 to 2004, has gone from a modest family car to a premium limousine that competes with Toyota Crown And Mazda Luce. But what does Gloria special? Firstly, its close connection with Nissan Skyline — models often shared platforms, engines, and even design decisions, which created confusion among collectors. Secondly, a sales system unique to Japan: Gloria sold through a dealer network Nissan Prince Store, while Skyline - through Nissan Motor Store.
Over the 45 years of its existence, the model has changed 8 generations, each of which reflected the trends of the era - from the smooth lines of the 60s to the aggressive contours of the 90s. In this article we will analyze each generation Gloria (codes from Y30 to Y34), we will highlight key technical innovations and compare them with Skyline and answer the question: why this model became a cult in Japan, but never conquered world markets. If you are a collector, planning to buy a retro Japanese car, or simply interested in the history of cars, here you will find comprehensive information, including rare photos and specification tables.
1. First generation (Y30, 1959–1962): the beginning of a legend
Debut Nissan Gloria Y30 in 1959, became the company's response to the growing demand for affordable business class sedans. The model was developed as a more democratic alternative Prince Skyline ALSI-1 (predecessor Skyline), but with an emphasis on comfort and practicality. Body type "pontoon" (without protruding fenders) and rounded shapes made the car visually softer than its angular European counterparts. Under the hood was a 1.5-liter inline-four. GA-4 total capacity 60 hp, but for Japan in those years this was enough - the maximum speed reached 120 km/h, which was a record figure for the local market.
Interesting fact: Gloria Y30 became the first Japanese car with automatic transmission (optional NissanMate), which emphasized its premium status. However, sales were sluggish - only 12,000 copies. Cause? High price (1.5 times more expensive) Datsun Bluebird) and conservative design. However, the model laid the foundation for future generations by proving that Nissan can compete with Toyota in the executive sedan segment.
- 🔧 Engines: 1.5L
GA-4(60 hp), 1.9LGB-4(85 hp) - the last one appeared in 1961. - 🎨 Design: "Pontoon" body with chrome bumpers and round headlights.
- 💰 Price in 1960: ¥890,000 (equivalent to ¥1.2 million in 2026).
- 🚗 Competitors: Toyota Crown RS, Prince Skyline ALSI-1.
⚠️ Attention: Upon purchase Gloria Y30 today check the condition of the frame - corrosion in the area of the rear arches and sills is critical for 90% of surviving examples. Original spare parts (for example, chrome moldings) are practically not reproduced.
2. Second generation (Y31, 1962–1965): revolution with G7 engine
Nissan Gloria Y31 became the model’s first serious step towards premiumness. The design has acquired more strict lines, and the interior has wooden inserts and leather trim was a luxury in early 60s Japan. The main innovation is the engine G7 volume 1.9 liters and power 95 hp, which accelerated the car to 150 km/h. This motor, by the way, was later inherited Skyline 2000 GT, which brought the two models even closer together.
A version debuted in 1963 Gloria Super 6 with 2-liter inline six-cylinder engine H20 (105 hp) - first sedan Nissan with such a unit. It was a direct challenge Toyota Crown Eight, and the market responded: sales increased to 20,000 cars per year. However, exports remained minimal - Gloria positioned as a “Japanese car for the Japanese.”
| Modification | Engine | Power | Max. speed | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gloria Standard | G7 1.9L I4 |
95 hp | 150 km/h | Basic version with 4-speed manual transmission. |
| Gloria Super 6 | H20 2.0L I6 |
105 hp | 160 km/h | The first 6-cylinder engine in the line. |
| Gloria Van | G7 1.9L I4 |
90 hp | 140 km/h | Commercial version with larger trunk. |
- Y30 (1959–1962)
- Y31 (1962–1965)
- Y32 (1965–1968)
- Y33 (1968–1971)
- Other
3. Third generation (Y32, 1965–1968): fighting the Skyline
With release Nissan Gloria Y32 an era has begun platform unity with Skyline. Both models were now based on the chassis S50, which allowed to reduce production costs. Externally Gloria received more angular shapes and four-headlight optics - a trend set by American cars. appeared in the salon adjustable steering column And air conditioner (optional).
Technically, the model offered a wide selection of engines - from 1.5-liter G15 up to 2 liter U20 (130 hp), which later became legendary thanks to its participation in racing. I wonder what Gloria Y32 became the first in the line to be officially exported to Europe (under the name Datsun 2000), although sales were symbolic. The main disadvantage of the generation is corrosion problems, especially in the rear of the body.
- Condition of the frame under the rear bumper (frequent corrosion)
- Operation of the 4-speed automatic transmission (torque converter wear)
- Compression in the engine cylinders U20 (problems with oil burner)
- Integrity of chrome parts (recovery is expensive) -->
4. Fourth generation (Y33, 1968–1971): golden era of design
Nissan Gloria Y33 considered one of the most beautiful generations - its design is in the style of "coca cola"(smooth curves of the body) became the standard of Japanese elegance of the 60s. The model was offered in three body styles: sedan, hardtop (without B-pillar) and station wagon (rare!). The engine made its debut under the hood L20 - 2-liter inline six with power 130 hp, which later became the basis for racing versions Skyline GT-R.
In 1970 a version appeared Gloria 2300 Super SSS with engine L23 (160 hp) and 5-speed manual transmission - it was one of the fastest Japanese cars of that time (acceleration to 100 km/h in 9.5 seconds). I wonder what Gloria Y33 became the last to use the name Prince on the emblem - since 1971, the brand has been fully integrated into Nissan.
Why is the Gloria Y33 called the "Japanese Mercedes"
Externally, the model copied the design Mercedes-Benz W111 (tail fins, headlight shape), but with a Japanese interpretation. Engineers Nissan we even went to Germany to study the assembly of German cars. As a result Gloria Y33 received body rigidity, unusual for Japan, and a level of sound insulation comparable to its European counterparts.
5. Fifth generation (230, 1971–1975): transition to the Skyline platform
With the generation Nissan Gloria 230 (body code S50) complete unification began with Skyline — the models now differed only in the design of the front end and interior trim. This was dictated by savings: after the merger Prince Motor Company And Nissan in 1966, duplicating platforms became impractical. Externally Gloria got a more massive look with vertical headlights (unlike horizontal Skyline), which gave her solidity.
Technically, the model offered the same engines as Skyline: from L16 (1.6L, 95 hp) up to L24 (2.4L, 150 hp). In 1973, a version appeared with automatic transmission with overdrive - new for the Japanese market. However, the main problem of the generation was 1973 oil crisis — demand for large sedans has fallen, and Gloria almost ceased to exist. As a result, sales amounted to only 40,000 copies in 4 years.
⚠️ Attention: Upon purchase Gloria 230 with engine L24 check the injection system - early versions suffered from overheating due to an inefficient radiator. Also pay attention to the condition of the suspension: shock absorbers and silent blocks wear out faster than Skyline, due to the greater weight of the body.
6. Sixth generation (Y30, 1975–1979): returning to roots
After failure Gloria 230 Nissan I decided to give the model back her individuality. Generation Y30 (not to be confused with the first generation!) received a completely new design with wedge-shaped body and narrow headlights - a trend set by European cars of the 70s. appeared in the salon electric windows And central locking (options), which emphasized the premium status.
Technically, the model offered series engines L (from 1.8 to 2.8 liters), but the main novelty was the diesel unit LD20 - first in history Gloria. He developed modest 70 hp, but was in demand among taxi drivers. Interestingly, this generation was the last to be offered in the body style hardtop — since 1979 Nissan completely switched to 4-door sedans.
Upon recovery Gloria Y30 note the original paint color "Grand Maroon" (code 413) - it was used only in 1977-1978 and is today the rarest among collectors.
7. Seventh and eighth generations (Y31/Y32/Y33/Y34, 1979–2004): the end of an era
Since 1979 Gloria finally became a "twin" Skyline, differing only in the front design and trim. Generations Y31 (1979–1983), Y32 (1983–1987), Y33 (1987–1991) and Y34 (1991–1995/1999/2004) followed this logic, but each time the differences became less noticeable. For example, Gloria Y32 received turbocharged engine RB20DET (180 hp), identical Skyline GTS-R, but with a more luxurious interior (heated leather seats, wood paneling).
The last generation Y34, was released right up to 2004 - a record for the Japanese auto industry. The model was offered with engines RB25DE (200 hp) and VQ30DET (260 hp), but by that time demand had fallen: Japanese buyers preferred more modern Teana And Fuga. In 2004 Nissan Gloria officially left the assembly line, giving way to Nissan Cima.
Main difference Gloria Y34 from Skyline R34 - rear suspension: y Gloria a multi-link was used instead of a semi-independent beam, which improved handling at high speeds.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions about Nissan Gloria
Why are Gloria and Skyline so similar?
Since 1965, the models shared platforms and technical base, but were sold through different dealer networks (Prince Store And Nissan Motor Store). This was a marketing ploy to reach different target audiences: Gloria positioned as a more premium and conservative model.
Which generation of Gloria is the rarest?
Y30 (1975–1979) - due to low sales and corrosion problems, fewer than 100 examples survive in good condition. Versions with an engine are especially appreciated L28E and automatic transmission.
Is it possible to put the engine from the Skyline GT-R into the Gloria?
Technically yes, but some improvements will be required: suspension replacement (y GT-R wider track), electronics modification and strengthening the braking system. Popular swap - RB26DETT in Gloria Y32, but this requires registration as a "replica" in most countries.
How much does a Gloria Y33 cost in good condition?
Prices vary from $15 000 per copy with engine L20 to $50 000+ for Gloria 2300 Super SSS in perfect condition. Restored versions with racing history can cost up to $100 000.
Why wasn't Gloria sold outside of Japan?
Main reasons: left-hand drive (not suitable for Europe and USA), high price compared to Datsun, and focus on the domestic market — Nissan prioritized sales in Japan, where the model was a status symbol.