What Car? Q&A - What's a Nissan Figaro?

Q: Can you tell me anything about the Nissan Figaro? Is it an import? Is it still in production, and if so, how can I get a new one in the UK?
Rich C

A: The Figaro is a small convertible based on Nissan's supermini, the Micra.

Only 20,000 were ever built, and all were manufactured in 1991. So, unfortunately, you won't be able to get hold of a new one today.

It was manufactured in Japan, and never officially sold in the UK, so any you may have seen on British roads will have been imported.

Don't let that put you off, though. A quick search of the classifieds revealed plenty for sale around the country, ranging from £3000-£10,000 (depending on mileage and condition).

We even spotted an unregistered car with only delivery mileage on the clock for £20,000.

Retro-styling and limited production numbers have kept used values high, and that means the Figaro isn't great value for money.

If your girlfriend has her heart set on retro styling, how about the Daihatsu Copen?

It looks similar to the Figaro, but is better value for money and you can still buy a new one today.