Second generation (U12; 1989–1992)
The first generation Pintara was replaced in 1989 by a model initially dubbed by the media as "Project Matilda",[3] which turned out to be a locally produced front-wheel drive version of the Nissan Bluebird (U12), rather than a model uniquely designed for Australia as initial stories had indicated. However, the model performed badly in local testing, and required body and chassis strengthening.[4]
In Australia, this was sold as the Nissan Pintara (U12), also available as a locally designed five-door "Superhatch". The sedan and Superhatch were exported to New Zealand as the Nissan Bluebird (replacing locally assembled models sourced from Japan) while the Superhatch was exported to Japan as the Bluebird Aussie.[5]
The U12 model was discontinued in mid-1992 when Nissan Australia ended local production and New Zealand reverted to local assembly of the next generation Bluebird from Japanese kits.
Under the Button car plan, in which local manufacturers shared models, Ford Australia marketed a rebadged version of the U12 Pintara sedan and hatchback as the Ford Corsair.[6] In addition, Ford provided the tooling and stamped the car's body panels.[7]
Nissan fitted a 2.0-litre CA20E inline-four engine to the GLi and Executive levels of trim. This engine was rated at 83 kW (DIN) at 5200 rpm for power, and 168 Nm (DIN) at 4000 rpm torque.[8]
T, Ti, and TRX versions received a 2.4-litre KA24E inline-four. This engine produced 96 kW (DIN) at 5600 rpm and 189 Nm (DIN) at 2800 rpm.[8] Fitted with electronic concentrated control system (ECCS) for precise MPI fuel injection, the 2.4-litre also featured ignition timing control with SOHC and three valves per cylinder (two intake, one exhaust).
