Nissan Be-1
The first of Nissan's Pike Factory cars, the Be-1 wrapped reliable Micra mechanicals in a charming, retro-styled package. It's an affordable and quirky JDM classic known for its limited production and influential design.
Typical sold price of a Nissan Be-1 ranges from $3,650 to $12,976, based on 15 sales tracked on Hypercars. 5 currently for sale.
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The Nissan Be-1 was the first of the company's famous "Pike Factory" cars. Revealed at the 1985 Tokyo Motor Show, it was based on the humble K10 Micra platform but wrapped in a cheerful, postmodern body that bucked the era's angular trends. Nissan originally planned a limited run of 10,000 cars, all sold through a lottery system in Japan for the 1987 model year due to overwhelming demand. It was available in four colors and offered with either a 5-speed manual or 3-speed automatic, plus an optional canvas top.
The Be-1's collectibility stems from its unique design, limited production, and its role in kicking off the retro car craze of the late 1980s and 1990s. It's a simple, reliable car that's easy to drive, but its main appeal is the attention it gets. For collectors, it represents a significant moment in Japanese automotive design and a more whimsical approach to car building. Its JDM-only status adds a layer of exclusivity for buyers in markets like the US.
Today, the Be-1 market is small but stable. As an early Pike car, it's an accessible entry point into JDM collecting. Values are modest, with most examples trading for under $10,000. While not a performance car by any measure, it offers a distinctive ownership experience for enthusiasts who value style and rarity over speed.
Buying Tips
- Check thoroughly for rust, especially in the floor pans, rocker panels, and around the front and rear windscreens. These cars weren't well rust-proofed from the factory.
- Body-specific parts like bumpers, lights, and trim are nearly impossible to find. Ensure the car is complete and undamaged.
- The unique interior materials are prone to sun fading and cracking. Look closely at the condition of the dashboard and seat fabric, as replacements are unobtainable.
- Mechanical parts for the 1.0L MA10S engine are shared with the K10 Micra and are relatively easy to source, making it simple to maintain.
- If equipped with the optional canvas top, check its condition for rips and test the mechanism. Water leaks are a common issue.
Recent sales show prices ranging from $4,500 for projects to over $9,000 for excellent, low-mileage examples.
15 Nissan Be-1 vehicles have been tracked across auctions and listings on Hypercars, with 5 currently live. Sold prices range from $3,300 to $12,976.
Data sourced from Bring a Trailer, Cars & Bids, eBay Motors, PCarMarket, and Collecting Cars. Updated daily.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Nissan Be-1 cost?
Based on 15 sales tracked on Hypercars, Nissan Be-1 prices typically range from $3,650 to $12,976. There are 5 currently for sale.
How many Nissan Be-1 listings are for sale right now?
There are 5 Nissan Be-1 listings currently live across auctions, dealers, and marketplaces tracked by Hypercars.