1988 Nissan Patrol SWB 2.8 TD

Vehicle Overview

Nissan introduced the fourth generation of the Patrol nameplate in 1988, and even if it looked somewhat similar to its predecessor, it was a new vehicle.

Like the model it replaced, it was available with either a short or a long wheelbase. While the longer version was most suitable for families with an outdoor appeal, the short one was more of a rugged off-road vehicle. In addition, it was also available with the famous RD28T engine, the same unit to be found in the mighty Skyline GT-R.

Despite the flat front fascia with round headlights and a slatted grille, the 1988 Patrol was not identical to its predecessor. Thanks to the wider front fenders, the car looked more aggressive. In addition, the wheel arches sported cladding to protect the bodywork from mud and stones thrown by the beefy wheels. The short-wheelbase version of the Y60 Patrol was fitted with two doors and a set of windows for the rear passengers. Yet, the trunk was small when compared to its five-door sibling. At the back, it received an outside-mounted spare wheel mounted on a cradle. There were two unequally-length doors to access the trunk.

Inside, the driver faced an angular-shaped instrument cluster with big dials for the speedometer and tachometer, flanked by four gauges. Between the front seats, the carmaker added the gear stick and the transfer-case lever. The rear passengers couldn’t enjoy too much legroom, but it was enough for two passengers on short trips.

The Y60 was a body-on-frame construction with independent front suspension and a solid axle in the rear. Under the hood, Nissan installed either inline-six turbo-diesel powerplants or the famous 2.8-liter turbocharged gasoline engine for specific markets.