Nissan Largo - a legendary minivan, which over 20 years of production (1981–2001) became a cult car in Japan and abroad. Its unique design, spacious interior and reliable engines SR20DE And CA20S made the model popular even after decades. But how to distinguish the original Largo from a replica from a photo? What body parts indicate the year of manufacture? And where can I find high-quality photographs for restoration?
In this article we have collected more than 100 unique photos all generations Nissan Largo - from the first E23 (1981) to the last E25 (1997–2001). You will see rare modifications (for example, Largo Exceed with all-wheel drive), compare interiors from different years and find out what to look for when buying from photographs. And also - a table of differences between generations and a FAQ with answers to the most difficult questions about the model.
1. All generations of Nissan Largo in photographs: how to distinguish E23, E24 and E25
In 20 years Nissan Largo passed through three generations, each of which had unique design features. The main difference is the shape of the headlights, grille and taillights. For example, first generation (E23, 1981–1985) easy to recognize by rectangular headlights and a chrome grille with vertical slats. But E25 (1997–2001) has already received streamlined shapes and more modern bumpers.
Below are the key visual markers of each generation:
- 🔹 E23 (1981–1985): rectangular headlights, narrow taillights, chrome grille with 5 vertical slats, no plastic trim on the bumpers.
- 🔹 E24 (1985–1997): more rounded headlights, plastic bumpers, reshaped rear lights (widened to the sides), appearance of a version Exceed with all-wheel drive.
- 🔹 E25 (1997–2001): fully streamlined body, integrated turn signals in the bumpers, new taillights with transparent inserts, no chrome on the grille.
If you are looking for restoration photos, check out small details: for example, door handles on E23 were chrome plated, and on E25 - plastic to match the body color. It is also important to check VIN code in the photos of the engine compartment - this will help you avoid buying a “assembled” car.
- E23 (1981–1985)
- E24 (1985–1997)
- E25 (1997–2001)
- Everyone likes it
2. Photo of the Nissan Largo interior: how the interior has changed over 20 years
Interior Nissan Largo has evolved from ascetic to almost premium. For example, in E23 The dashboard was designed in a simple style with an analogue clock and minimalistic buttons. But E25 already received digital instrument panel (optional), leather trim and even electric seats in top trim levels.
Notice these details in the photos:
| Generation | Finishing material | Dashboard | Unique options |
|---|---|---|---|
| E23 (1981–1985) | Fabric, wood-look plastic (optional) | Analogue, without on-board computer | Manual windows, no air conditioning in the base |
| E24 (1985–1997) | Fabric/velor, leather option for Exceed | Analog + small display (in top) | Electrical package, climate control, sunroof |
| E25 (1997–2001) | Leather, wood, Alcantara (optional) | Digital (optional), on-board computer | Heated seats, CD changer, cruise control |
⚠️ Attention: Upon purchase Largo check condition from photos ceiling - in models before 1995, the skin often peels off. Also pay attention to gas pedal: If it's worn down to metal, it's a sign of high mileage or aggressive driving.
How to check the interior in the photo?
1. Inspect the seams on the seats - if they are worn, but the seller claims that the mileage is low, this is a reason for doubt.
2. Check whether the color of the plastic on the panel matches the color on the door cards (in E25 they should be the same).
3. In the photo of the steering wheel, pay attention to the wear of the buttons - this is an indirect sign of the actual mileage.
3. Photos of Nissan Largo engines: how to recognize the engine by appearance
Nissan Largo was equipped with several types of engines, and they can be distinguished even from photographs of the engine compartment. For example, petrol CA20S (2.0 l, 100 hp) has a characteristic aluminum intake manifold and a black plastic valve cover. But SR20DE (2.0 l, 150 hp) easily recognized by red valve cover and a more compact layout.
Here's how to identify motors from photos:
- 🔧 CA18S/CA20S: black plastic valve cover, carburetor (until 1987), later - injector with simple wiring.
- 🔧 SR20DE: red valve cover, black plastic intake manifold, stock
VTC(variable valve timing system). - 🔧 CD20 (diesel): massive cast iron block, high pressure fuel pump (
TDI) on the side.
⚠️ Attention: If the photo of the engine shows rust on the pallet or traces of oil on the block, this may indicate problems with the cylinder head gasket or corrosion. Also check availability original stickers on the valve covers - their absence often means that the engine has been repaired.
Timing belt condition (if visible)
No oil stains on the block
Integrity of pipes and hoses -->
4. Rare and limited versions of Nissan Largo: photos of unique modifications
In addition to the standard versions, Nissan Largo had several rare modifications that are a rarity today. For example, Largo Exceed 4WD with all-wheel drive was produced only for the Japanese market and had unique wide wheel arches and increased ground clearance. Another rarity - Largo Highway Star (1990s), which was equipped turbocharged SR20DET engine (205 hp) and sports suspension.
Here are photos to help identify these versions:
- 🌟 Exceed 4WD: nameplate
4WDon the rear door, plastic door sills, increased ground clearance. - 🌟 Highway Star: sports seats with lateral support, red seat belts, badge
Turboon the back door. - 🌟 Largo Royal Saloon: extended wheelbase, separate seats in the second row, minibar in the cabin (optional).
If you come across a photo Largo with non-standard wheels or nameplates, be sure to check them with the catalogs of original accessories. For example, alloy wheels from Nismo (Nissan's sports division) were installed only on Highway Star and some versions Exceed.
To verify the authenticity of a rare version, ask the seller for a photo VIN plates (located on the driver's side A-pillar) and check the number against the Japanese auction database.
5. How to find high-quality photos of Nissan Largo for restoration or purchase
If you are restoring Nissan Largo or are looking for a spare parts donor, high-quality photographs are your main tool. Here's where to look for them:
- Japanese auctions (Goo-net, CarSensor): here you will find high-resolution photos with detailing of the body and interior. Pay attention to the labels
Grade 4.5+- This is a guarantee of the originality of the parts. - Owner forums (Nissan Largo Club Japan, Oldschool.co.jp): users often post photos of repair processes indicating the catalog numbers of spare parts.
- Manufacturer Archives: on the website Nissan Heritage Collection there are official press photos of all generations, including rare versions.
⚠️ Attention: When ordering spare parts from photographs, always check catalog numbers! For example, a bumper from E24 won't fit E25, even if visually they are similar. Also check body color code (located on the nameplate in the engine compartment) - this will help avoid mistakes when selecting paint.
The most popular photos for restoration are photographs lower part of the body (thresholds, side members) and engine compartment indicating welding locations. These are the parts that are most often susceptible to corrosion.
6. Typical fakes in the photo: how not to buy a “prefabricated” Nissan Largo
Due to popularity Nissan Largo on the secondary market there are often “assembled” copies, where parts are from different generations or even brands (for example, Mitsubishi Delica). Here's how to recognize them from photographs:
- 🚨 Mismatch between headlights and grille: for example, headlights from E25 on the body E24 (they are wider and have a different shape).
- 🚨 Different colors of plastic in the cabin: If the instrument panel is black and the door cards are beige, this is a sign of replacement parts.
- 🚨 Lack of original nameplates: There should be a logo on the tailgate Largo indicating the modification (for example,
ExceedorHighway Star).
Also pay attention to photo of pendant: if the car has racks from Nissan Serena (they are shorter), this indicates artisanal tuning. Original racks Largo have a characteristic springs red (in versions with all-wheel drive).
How to check the authenticity of a photo?
1. Request photos of the same angle from different angles - this will help identify photomontage.
2. Check the EXIF data of the photo (through services like Exif Viewer) - if the shooting date is very different from the publication date, this is suspicious.
3. Compare the photo with spare parts catalogs - for example, the shape of the rear bumper should exactly match the original part for a given year.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions about Nissan Largo photos
📸 Where can I find a photo of the original paint for the 1990 Nissan Largo E24?
Official paint codes can be found at Nissan Paint Code Manual or on a nameplate in the engine compartment (usually begins with the letters KH3 or KL0). It is also useful to study photos in a group Nissan Largo Owners Club on Facebook - there the owners post pictures after painting, indicating the original codes.
🔍 How to determine from a photo which engine is in Largo?
Please note:
- Valve cover color (red — SR20DE, black plastic — CA20S).
- The presence of a turbine (if the intercooler is visible, this is
SR20DET). - The shape of the intake manifold (aluminum — CA, plastic — SR).
For accurate identification, request a photo VIN plates and check with the database Nissan.
💰 How much do original photos of Nissan Largo cost for restoration?
Price depends on source:
- Photos from Japanese auctions (Goo-net) - free, but low resolution.
- Original press photos from Nissan — ~$20–50 per set (for example, for eBay).
- Photo reports from disassemblies - ~$5–10 for detailed photos of a specific part.
The most valuable - photos lower part of the body And engine compartment in high resolution.