The 1990s were a time of transition for Nissan after pulling out of manufacturing in Australia, but the line-up of models offered during this period produced some gems.
Nameplates like the GT-R, Patrol, 300ZX, Maxima and the Pulsar featuring the sporty SSS.
Produced first during the faultless N14 era, the Pulsar SSS followed the ET in the mid-1980s as the sporty version of Nissan’s medium hatchback.
The SSS was a mild hot hatch in Nissan’s standards as the little brother to the rally homologation special, the GTi-R.
Manufactured at Nissan’s Dandenong Plant from 1991-1993, the SSS was top of the Pulsar range alongside the premium Ti variant.
Powered by a 2.0-litre engine producing 105kW on 95RON fuel, the SSS continues to be a reliable package to this day.
The suspension was tweaked and paired with performance Bridgestone tyres, the handling was impressive.
A five-speed manual transmission sent power to the front wheels, which mated to a superb power steering system and four-wheel disc brakes makes for a great all-round package.
The SSS nameplate continued into the N15, but a heavier weight and a lack of power increase ensure this newer model isn’t as sweet to drive.
A strong performer in Production Car racing, the SSS was raced by the likes of former ATCC privateer Murray Carter, Harry Bargwanna, Phil Alexander, Kevin Burton and more.
Craig Lowndes in fact made his debut at Bathurst in a SSS during the 1994 and won his class.
A one-make series uses N14 and N15 Pulsars based out of New South Wales, featuring big fields.
The SSS returned in 2013, with special editions featuring a retro Nissan Motorsport livery.