The Nissan Figaro is an interesting vehicle in as much as it is designed to look like a much more retro model than it was at the time of its production, but over the years it has become a classic in its own right.

The Figaro was first shown off in public during the Tokyo Motor Show back in 1989 and Nissan made no bones about it being a blast from the past, incorporating this into the marketing of the model.

The bare bones of the Nissan Figaro were pulled from the Micra, although the exterior of the car was intended to hark back to the design of the Datsun Fairlady which had originally been introduced almost three decades earlier.

Featuring a turbo charged 987cc engine and a three speed automatic gearbox, the Nissan Figaro was not intended to be a performance vehicle, but rather a limited run commemorative model which would have a look and appeal that would stretch far further than your typical car.

Production began in 1991 and only 8000 were shipped at first, although Nissan would go on to produce a further 12,000 of the Figaro because its unusual styling and classic good looks made it an instant hit with auto enthusiasts.

The Figaro became very popular in the UK, with fans of the vehicle importing it from Japan and a large community of owners still active today.

Despite its classic good looks the Figaro is actually quite well equipped for a car that is over 20 years old. It has leather seats and air conditioning, along with a CD player and a hardtop roof that can be opened to allow drivers to take in the countryside in style.

The popularity of the Figaro has in part been perpetuated thanks to its celebrity supporters. Various famous owners of the Figaro have publicly expressed their passion for the car, including rock star Eric Clapton and young royal Princess Eugene of York.

Some may find the forced efforts of the Figaro's retro design to be a little off-putting, but in others these have been the main draw, allowing it to attain classic status in its own right.