"A boy-racer spec March with special pistons and high-lift cams."
The third-generation Nissan March was a hit when it first appeared on the Japan market. It featured a cute styling theme, highlighted by round headlights, and numerous color variations. It was also quite versatile, acting the part of commuter and luggage hauler, all in a compact package.
In October 2003, a sports model called the 125R was added to the lineup. Many assumed that this sports trim consisted of a firmer suspension and spiced-up body work, but the case was quite different with the 125R.
The development was performed by Autech Japan, a division of Nissan that creates special, one of them being the Nismo 370Z S-Tune. The base car's 1.2-liter CR12DE engine received special pistons, hiph rpm camshafts, a lightweight flywheel and exhaust system, which combined to help improve output by 20 percent to 107 HP/6900 rpm and 99.0 ft-lb at 3600. Although the suspension geometry remained unchanged from the base March, it has been tuned for better cornering, while a new body kit added downforce at high speed.
Along with this minor change in the March, implemented in August 2005, the 125R also underwent a change. It was given special aerodynamic parts specifically made for the 125R, the engine ports were modified and the exhaust manifold was replaced with a special stainless steel one. The 125R redefined the "sports" trim level in everyday cars, proving a big hit to enthusiasts who also needed a versatile daily commuter.
The third-generation Nissan March was a hit when it first appeared on the Japan market. It featured a cute styling theme, highlighted by round headlights, and numerous color variations. It was also quite versatile, acting the part of commuter and luggage hauler, all in a compact package.
In October 2003, a sports model called the 125R was added to the lineup. Many assumed that this sports trim consisted of a firmer suspension and spiced-up body work, but the case was quite different with the 125R.
The development was performed by Autech Japan, a division of Nissan that creates special, one of them being the Nismo 370Z S-Tune. The base car's 1.2-liter CR12DE engine received special pistons, hiph rpm camshafts, a lightweight flywheel and exhaust system, which combined to help improve output by 20 percent to 107 HP/6900 rpm and 99.0 ft-lb at 3600. Although the suspension geometry remained unchanged from the base March, it has been tuned for better cornering, while a new body kit added downforce at high speed.
Along with this minor change in the March, implemented in August 2005, the 125R also underwent a change. It was given special aerodynamic parts specifically made for the 125R, the engine ports were modified and the exhaust manifold was replaced with a special stainless steel one. The 125R redefined the "sports" trim level in everyday cars, proving a big hit to enthusiasts who also needed a versatile daily commuter.
