Overview

This 1988 Nissan Safari Y60 is a classic old school Japanese 4x4 finished in Black 2 and powered by a durable 4.2 litre diesel engine paired with a 5 speed manual gearbox.

Known globally for its toughness, reliability and off road capability, the Y60 Safari has become increasingly desirable among collectors, overland builders and enthusiasts looking for a proper analogue 4WD platform.

Showing 167,839 km / 104,290 miles and carrying a respectable auction grade 3.5, this one owner example presents a solid base for restoration, off road use or overlanding conversion.

With rugged mechanical simplicity, body on frame construction and legendary reliability, the Y60 remains one of the most respected 4x4 platforms ever produced.

Auction Details

• Auction Date: 19 May 2026
• Bids must be in on 18 May 2026 before 9pm
• Auction Location: Yokohama
• Auction Start: £6,000
• Autoselecta Guide: £6,000 to £8,000

Key Facts

• Year: 1988
• Model: Nissan Safari Y60 AD
• Engine: 4.2L Diesel
• Fuel Type: Diesel
• Transmission: Manual 5 Speed
• Drivetrain: 4WD
• Mileage: 167,839 km / 104,290 miles
• Overall Grade: 3.5
• Interior Grade: C

Specification and Features

• Y60 Safari platform
• 4.2 litre diesel engine
• 5 speed manual transmission
• Four wheel drive system
• Body on frame chassis
• Power steering
• Factory off road suspension setup
• Five door SUV body
• One owner vehicle
• Auction first time entry vehicle

Additional Notes from Auction Sheet

• Auction first time listed vehicle.
• One owner example.
• Warranty book and owner’s manual to follow after sale.
• Vehicle appears largely standard and unmodified.

Condition Overview

Exterior

• The auction sheet notes various cosmetic imperfections consistent with age and use.
• Multiple dents, scratches and paint imperfections are visible around the body.
• Mirror and wheel scratches noted.
• Underside rust and corrosion present.
• Right rear door reportedly does not open and remains untested.
• Exterior overall appears honest and usable for a classic off road vehicle of this age.

Interior

• Interior grade C reflects moderate wear throughout the cabin.
• Seat tears and cigarette burns noted.
• Steering wheel wear present.
• Interior scratches and dirt throughout cabin.

Mechanical

• Oil leak noted.
• Air conditioning not functioning.
• Underside rust and corrosion noted.
• Given the age of the vehicle, a full mechanical inspection and recommissioning should be expected before regular use or export.

Defects and Remarks

• Oil leak
• Air conditioning inoperative
• Interior wear and dirt
• Seat tears and cigarette burns
• Steering wheel wear
• Wheel and mirror scratches
• Underside rust and corrosion
• Right rear door does not open
• Multiple scratches and dents
• Exterior paint imperfections

Why This Car

The Nissan Safari Y60 has earned legendary status thanks to its mechanical durability, serious off road capability and overengineered construction.

Unlike many modern SUVs, the Y60 was designed as a true off road utility vehicle and remains highly sought after for overlanding, expedition builds and restoration projects.

Its simple diesel drivetrain and rugged chassis make it particularly attractive for enthusiasts looking for a dependable classic 4WD platform.

As values continue to rise globally for analogue Japanese off roaders, clean and usable Y60 Safaris are becoming increasingly difficult to source.

Summary

A classic Nissan Safari Y60 diesel manual with genuine old school 4x4 character.

This one owner example offers a strong foundation for restoration, overlanding or enthusiast use, with honest condition and desirable mechanical simplicity.

An increasingly collectible Japanese off roader with timeless appeal and legendary durability.

Autoselecta Sourcing Service

Let Autoselecta find your next vehicle

Autoselecta specialises in sourcing Japanese performance, enthusiast and off road vehicles directly from auction, including Safari, Land Cruiser, Patrol, Type R, Evo, STI and Skyline models.

Japanese auction vehicles often provide stronger condition, lower mileage and unique specifications rarely found on the UK market.

Autoselecta gives buyers direct access to Japanese auctions before vehicles reach dealers, removing middlemen and providing full transparency throughout the buying and import process.

Import Guide

Classic Japanese 4x4 vehicles such as the Y60 Safari continue to grow in popularity worldwide thanks to their durability and analogue driving experience.

Importing directly from Japan provides access to original and unmodified examples increasingly difficult to source elsewhere.

These vehicles are especially popular for restoration, expedition builds and long term enthusiast ownership.

Cost Transparency and Import Pricing

Autoselecta provides a live pricing calculator on every vehicle, allowing buyers to see the full cost to import into the UK in real time.

This includes:

• Vehicle purchase price
• Shipping from Japan
• Import duty and VAT
• Autoselecta service fee

Before placing a bid, buyers are shown a full cost breakdown again to ensure complete clarity and confidence before committing.

This system ensures there are no hidden costs and allows buyers to make fully informed decisions at every stage.

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