Chameleon Appeal: 1988 Nissan Pulsar NX SE Sports a Whole Wardrobe of Looks

At a glance, this Nissan might not scream ‘Datsun 310’, yet that’s exactly where its bloodline traces back. Nissan kicked off the N10 Pulsar series back in 1978, offering a subcompact that wore three different silhouettes: a practical hatchback, a sporty fastback sedan, and a station wagon. But by the time the late-’80s rolled around, the Pulsar had morphed into something far more playful and unconventional.

This 1988 Pulsar NX SE is the automotive equivalent of a shape-shifter. It came from the factory with interchangeable body panels, allowing owners to switch between a sporty coupe, a three-door hatchback, or even a quasi-convertible vibe with a T-top roof. It’s a rare breed that turns heads at any Cars & Coffee simply because no two examples look quite alike, depending on how the previous owner configured it.

Under the hood, this SE trim packs a peppy 1.8-liter engine, delivering just enough punch for city cruising and weekend back-road antics. The quirky styling makes it a standout among its more conservative Japanese contemporaries from that era. If you’re hunting for a weekend cruiser that sparks conversations, this Pulsar NX SE is a rolling testament to Nissan’s experimental side.