Stock #6030
Stock #6030
The luxury sedan wars of the 90's netted a slew of incredible transporters, and this 1997 Cima proves they could hold their own in the performance circuit as well. With a turbocharged VQ under the bonnet, an interior chock full of premium materials, and top-tier build quality all around, the Y33's seemingly checked lots of boxes. Our Cima Gran Turismo is finished in Pearl White (QR2), is accented by subtle privacy tint, a killer set of Volk F-Zero Challenge alloys, and assumes a lowered stance thanks to some Buddy Club coilovers. Save for some light paint chips, dings, and surface corrosion around the front fender lips, the exterior looks swell for being over two decades old. While we weren't able to verify the true mileage due to a prior odometer swap in Japan, this Y33 is serviced, stylish, and ready to roll. Quality, looks, and comfort are three terms synonymous with the Cima marque, so why wouldn't we call this one a Japanese Classic?
Finished in tan executive leather, the interior is as attractive as it is capable. Sporting a few performance-oriented modifications and amenities, it's clear the prior owner sought to maximize functionality as well. A Recaro SR3 seat coddles the driver and your passenger can still ride in comfort in the factory power unit. A passenger SRS airbag is also present in the front and side for some additional peace of mind. The driver benefits from a power tilt and telescoping steering column, and the factory woodgrain steering wheel feels nice in the palms of your hands. The center stack is trimmed in a complementary woodgrain finish and the OEM touch screen integrates HVAC and audio controls into a simple to use unit. As expected, the A/C blows ice cold, the heat is hot, and the factory premium audio system isn't too shabby either. Your rearmost passengers can also command control of their own climate zone and relax in the reclining bench too. All four power windows work as advertised, as do the power locks and power folding mirrors. The headliner is taut against the roof and the carpets beneath are plush and free of excessive wear. For the modifications made, the fit and finish of this cabin as a whole is impressive, and it should suit you and your copilots nicely.
Nissan's VQ30DET is a legendary enough motor in its own right, and this factory turbocharged variant is nothing short of a riot to drive. Ours has the added benefit of a comprehensive service by our trained technicians and this 3.0 fires right up thanks to a new 12v battery. An oil and filter service was performed, the oil pan was resealed, and we dropped in a new fuel pump and filter to keep the VG full of petrol. A SARD intake and Blitz intercooler feed an upgraded Garrett turbocharger and emit a symphony of inline six goodness from a full turbo-back exhaust. Shifts through the automatic gearbox are smooth and poised, and we performed a transmission fluid service and reseal to ensure you won't lose a drop of ATF. We overhauled the drivetrain to get this Cima in compliance for daily driving, and a new axle in the left rear helps throw power to the rear wheels seamlessly. Both inner and outer tie rods were replaced up front, alongside a pair of new lower control arms. Lastly, we replaced both lower ball joints in the rear. Aftermarket sway bars, endlinks, and tension arms shore up the handling nicely and add to the performance oriented driving experience. The coilovers deliver a comfortable ride overall although they're a bit noisy over bumps and divots. With the modifications and maintenance performed, this luxury slab handles like it's on rails and the GTR Brembo brakes stop this Cima on a dime if need be. Further aiding grip, comfort, and style, new rubber was mounted on all four corners. Not only does it look great on the mesh alloys, it should provide plenty of traction for tens of thousands of miles to come! We even performed a fresh alignment!
*California Residents: In order to register a Grey Market vehicle in the state of California then it will have to be made CARB compliant first. CARB certifications will have to be performed within the state. Depending on the vehicle and any existing modifications will affect the pricing. Typically CARB compliance will range between 5-10K. Additional information can be found on the California Air Resources Board website.
