Classics are all the rage. Good clean first generation Ford Broncos can cost as much as the new version. The same goes for older Toyota Land Cruisers and . And classic British Land Rovers and Range Rovers have always been popular. Any number of shops will fully restore these vehicles, upgrading them at the owner’s every whim. However, one older SUV is still to be appreciated: the first generation Pathfinder. This got us thinking: Will it become the next classic SUV?
An overview of the first generation Nissan Pathfinder
The first generation debuted in 1985 as a two-door body-on-frame SUV based on Nissan’s Hardbody Truck. It competed with the Chevy Blazer, Ford Bronco II, Jeep Cherokee and Toyota 4Runner in the US market. For the 1990 model year, it got a four-door body style. Among the four-door Pathfinder’s distinguishing features were the rear door handles hidden in the C-pillar trim.
continued through the 1995 model year with periodic updates. At that point, buyers could opt for the base XE trim with standard manual transmission, the SE trim with automatic transmission and power windows and locks, or the LE, which offers a leather interior, sunroof and Bose premium stereo.
The first generation Pathfinder is cheaper than the 4Runner
Today, first-generation Toyota 4Runner models range from around $5,000 for a rusty and battered example to mid-$20,000 for one in excellent condition. According to , the prices of vehicles in good to excellent condition have doubled in the past five years.
They have increased by comparison, but not at the rate of other classic SUVs. There are still plenty of first-generation models available for under $10,000 in good condition, and excellent ones sell for around $20,000. Hagerty doesn’t show a valuation for the Pathfinder, meaning the classic auto insurance company covers few of those models. That’s a good indicator that first-generation Pathfinders are still considered used cars, not classic SUVs.
Own a first generation Nissan Pathfinder
The main issue to look out for on a Generation 1 Pathfinder is . Many Pathfinder and Hardbody trucks of that era had rust around the rocker panels, rear fenders, and rear bumper. But the most significant areas to look out for are rusted frames or frame mounts.
Mechanically, the Pathfinder is solid. The 3.0-liter V6 delivers velvety power and adequately motivates the SUV, especially the updated version with multipoint injection. The four-speed transmission with electronic overdrive is generally solid, as are most other mechanical bits. Its body-on-frame setup makes the first-generation Pathfinder a competent off-roader that’s still comfortable enough to drive on the highway.
The best thing to look for is one with detailed maintenance records or one that appears to be in good mechanical condition. An inspection prior to purchase is always worth the expense and can save you thousands of dollars. You’ll find many first-generation models for sale in good condition, so don’t settle for a beat-up example or hold out for the unicorn.
