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129-546: The Florian saloon, competing in the intermediate class that included the Toyota Mark II , Mazda Luce , and the Nissan Laurel , was first shown at the 1967 Tokyo Motor Show . The Florian 1600 Deluxe (PA20) led a somewhat uneasy existence as the top-of-the line Isuzu at the time of introduction, as its single carburetted overhead valve G161 engine was no more than a downtuned version of the unit which lived under

258-576: A 1.8 L inline-four engine , and in June 1970 a two-door hardtop coupé joined the lineup. The Laurel was conceived as a junior version of the all-new Gloria before Nissan acquired Prince, and one year later a 2000 cc engine became available in the four-door sedan as well. The focus on a luxurious appearance had appeared in 1962 with the Nissan Skyline Sport with an exotic, European influenced appearance. Its competitors at introduction were

387-523: A 1.8-litre four, a 2.0-litre inline-six (carburetted or fuel-injected, a first for the Laurel), a 2.8-litre six, or a 2.0-litre diesel four, sourced from Nissan Diesel as an alternative to the diesel-powered Toyota Mark II and the Isuzu Florian . Transmissions were mainly four- or five-speed manuals or a three-speed automatic, although a three-speed manual with a column shift was also available in

516-552: A 6-inch CRT TV screen installed in the dashboard below the A/C controls that allowed passengers to watch broadcast TV if the transmission was in Park and the parking brake applied. The screen was not touch sensitive, and didn't offer a CD-ROM based navigation system. The display also showed AM/FM stereo settings. The video entertainment system also had RCA connections to attach a camcorder and watch recorded video. The stereo and video equipment

645-577: A Skyline rack-and-pinion steering rack. In May 1985, the Grand Extra Limited edition was released. Detail improvements were made in October 1985 and January 1986. In October 1986, there were mechanical changes along with significant modifications to the exterior. There was a new turbocharged DOHC engine, the 2.0-liter RB20DET 24-valve six-cylinder, while the LD28 diesel engine was replaced by

774-470: A bench seat with individually reclining front seat backs. A parking brake handle was now relocated to the centre console unless it had a bench seat that used the version installed to the left of the steering wheel. Some of the standard or optional items included power express down for the driver's window, a tilt steering wheel adjustment, a system monitor that would inform if the disc brake lining needed to be serviced, an AM/FM Stereo radio with four speakers,

903-523: A claimed top speed of 85 km/h (53 mph) and a range of 65 km (40 mi). Nissan's next electric car venture would be the 1998 Altra . The third generation appeared in January 1977. For the first time, the C230 was available in either saloon and hardtop coupé form, but also as a hardtop saloon without B-posts. The hardtop was only available with six-cylinder engines. Buyers could choose between

1032-616: A competitor to the Nissan Laurel sedan, with the new Chaser intended as an alternative to the Nissan Skyline in Japan. This generation offered as standard equipment a new windshield wiper and headlight switch installation, with the controls operated by levers attached to the steering column. A rear wiper was also available for all sedan, hardtop, and station wagon upper trim level packages. A steering column automatic gear selector continued to be offered on entry-level trim packages and

1161-642: A competitor to the newly introduced Nissan Laurel in Japan, the Isuzu Florian , and the Nissan Bluebird / Datsun 510 internationally that appeared August 1967, and two years after the Mazda Luce in 1966. The Mark II was the top-level product at Toyopet Store locations until the Toyota Celsior was introduced in 1989. At the Mark II's introduction in the late 1960s, Toyota was known as

1290-525: A diesel-engined Mark II went on sale, a first for the model as an alternative to the diesel-powered Isuzu Florian , and the diesel-powered car was exclusive to Toyota Diesel Store locations. In 1998, Toyota released a car called Progrès . The Progrès' front end resembles an updated version of the X30/X40 series sedan. Both feature a combination of round and squared lighting. The grille and bonnet also have similar shapes, sizes, and lines. The Grande trim

1419-545: A front bench seat with individually reclining seatbacks while other trim packages and the hardtop coupé came only with a full-length centre console that could accommodate either a manual or automatic transmission gear selector. The availability of engines over 2.0 litres was a new approach, obligating the Japanese driver to more annual road tax and upper trim packages added more standard equipment and available optional items. An electric clock became standard on all models but

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1548-761: A hubcap for Medalist colored bumper and large) and 50 Special Release III. January 1984 saw the abolition of the 1.8-litre GL models, while the Turbo Medalist Givenchy III limited edition also went on sale. European export models received the carburetted 2.0 (DX or SGL trim) and 2.4 inline-sixes (SGL), with 71 kW (97 PS) and 88 kW (120 PS) respectively, or with the large 2.8 diesel with 60 kW (82 PS). A fuel injected 2.4 with 127 PS (93 kW) later appeared for some markets. The 2.4-liter six only developed 113 PS (83 kW) in Swedish-market petrol cars as

1677-585: A layout which became standard following the Florian's first facelift in October 1970. But already, in September 1969, the overhead cam G161S engine was introduced. Power increased from 84 to 90 PS (62 to 66 kW) for the Super Deluxe and from 90 to 103 PS (66 to 76 kW) for the twin-carb 1600TS. The Deluxe still made do with the earlier OHV engine. October and November 1970 was also when

1806-513: A luxury car, as the larger engine obligated Japanese drivers to pay higher amounts of annual road tax . In September 1975, in order to meet the new emissions regulations for that year, the L26 was replaced by the larger yet 2753 cc L28 six-cylinder. By October the carburettors in the L20 were replaced with electronic fuel injection and the engine was now dubbed L20E. Because of the difficulty in meeting

1935-742: A new model positioned above the Datsun Bluebird 510 , the Laurel offered the luxury of the Nissan Gloria A30 in a shorter wheelbase, and always was the luxury version of the Skyline range for all generations, sharing engines, suspensions and handling dynamics of the popular performance coupe and sedan while having a longer wheelbase. The first Laurel was developed by the Nissan Tsurumi R&;D Division and assembled at

2064-421: A red or grey interior, four exterior colours, and a 1970s-era sweep speedometer with engine temperature and fuel gauge only. In September 1969 the Mark II went through a mid-model refresh and new trim packages were added. The 1900SL was the entry-level offering joined by the 1900GSL and the performance trim package 1900GSS was the top model and was installed with the twincam 1,900 cc 8R-G (originally called

2193-704: A result of that country's stringent emissions standards. As large Japanese cars are not very popular with private buyers in Europe, the diesel saw the lion's share of sales, mainly for taxi usage. Fitted with a detuned version of the L24 engine, the Laurel was introduced to the Middle Eastern (mainly Saudi) market in 1982. Most of the information in this article was translated from the Nissan Laurel article on Japanese Misplaced Pages at ja:日産・ローレル . In October 1984,

2322-472: A separately available cassette player or 8-track cassette, full instrumentation including a volt meter and oil pressure, cruise control, and the rear seat back that could fold down to accommodate long items in the boot. Mid-grade trim packages with the four-cylinder engine and the automatic transmission replaced the tachometer with an econometer that used intake manifold vacuum pressure to display "power," "acceleration," or "cruising". Entry-level vehicles replaced

2451-549: A single or SU twin-carburetor . The single carburetor generated 110 PS (81 kW; 108 hp) at 5600RPM, the dual carburetor generated 120 PS (88 kW; 118 hp) at 5800rpm, and the premium fuel dual carburetor generated 125 PS (92 kW; 123 hp) at 5800rpm. The Laurel hardtop coupe was introduced before the SOHC 2000 GT-X with the L20SU straight-six engine that appeared later in October. The 2000GX used

2580-575: A small, economy car manufacturer. The Corona Mark II was sold as a larger companion to the Corona while still being smaller than the Crown. In Japan, the sportier Toyota Chaser appeared in 1977 at Toyota Auto Store , and later in 1980, the Toyota Cresta appeared at Toyota Vista Store locations. As other automakers continued to offer vehicles in this size class, the Mark II's popularity peaked in

2709-419: A smaller annual road tax obligation. The suspension and chassis were updated, and used MacPherson struts at all four wheels, borrowing the rear suspension from the Crown, using semi-trailing arms with four links. All body styles were now integrated with a safety cage with crumple zones for the front and rear, a body-on-frame chassis was abandoned, and unitary construction was now used. In October 1979

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2838-546: A three-speed automatic transmission. North American market cars had the 2.3-litre M-series "six" when they first went on sale in early 1972, but in August of that year this was replaced by the larger 2.6-litre 4M unit. Power, originally at 109 hp (81 kW), increased to 123 hp (92 kW). This was the only engine offered for the Mark II's next four years in the North American markets. The third generation

2967-531: A wood-grained rim, while the GSS was black plastic. The list of optional items was shared with the sedan and wagon and included cruise control, air conditioning, electric rear window defroster, AM/FM stereo with a separately installed 8-track tape player , and power windows. Standard items added include a collapsible steering column in case of collision, three-point seat belts for front passengers with an audible seatbelt reminder, and power assist brakes with disc brakes for

3096-512: The 10R ). For North America, the Mark II was available with bucket seats for the driver and front passenger, a centre console with a floor-mounted manual transmission, electric rear window defroster, and a full size spare tire installed externally and underneath the cargo area on the wagon, with rear seats that fold down to a fully carpeted rear cargo area. The Mark II wagon was the largest wagon Toyota offered in North America, next to

3225-426: The 18R engine. The Australian-market Cressida received the 2.6-litre 4M engine, although in de-smogged form (meeting ADR27 ) it only produced 79 kW (107 PS) for relatively leisurely performance, but comparable, if not more power than the domestic, larger inline six cylinder engines offered by Ford, Chrysler and Holden. Standard features included air conditioning, automatic transmission (a 5-speed manual

3354-438: The 1973 oil crisis and remain competitive with other Japanese makers selling their vehicles. In 1974, it was marketed in the U.S. as a fully loaded coupe, sedan, and station wagon with limited available options. Standard features included a six-cylinder SOHC engine, four-speed manual transmission, front disc brakes, heater defroster, and bucket seats. Some options were stereo cassette player , power steering, air conditioning, and

3483-447: The 2000 GTX-E . The styling of the coupe appears to be influenced by the 1970 Ford Torino and the 1971 Mercury Cougar , reflecting a popular styling trend during the 1960s and 1970s called " coke bottle ", and continued a softer appearance to the edgier Skyline. The G-20 4-cylinder and L20 six-cylinder engines were equipped with SU twin carburetors but were eliminated February 1976 due to emission regulations. Engines available at

3612-707: The Bedford KB and in Australia, through Holden dealerships as both the Holden Rodeo and later as the Chevrolet LUV . The Florian was not named after Saint Florian , but rather after the fictional Lipizzan white horse belonging to the Emperor of Austria, which is the focal character of Felix Salten's (the author of Bambi ) 1934 novel, Florian - the Emperor's Stallion . In 1940, a movie based on

3741-497: The Butaketsu Laurel ("pig butt") because of its ample rear quarter panels and tail section, with the taillights incorporated into the rear bumper. The saloon continued to use MacPherson struts for the front wheels but now used a rear beam axle and semi-elliptic leaf spring . The hardtop coupé continued to share MacPherson struts for the front wheels and Semi-trailing arm for the rear suspension, and again shared with

3870-666: The Chaser performance sedan. November 1982 saw the introduction of the exclusive "Laurel Turbo Medalist Givenchy Version" with Hubert de Givenchy doing the TV commercials in Japan, borrowing a marketing concept for an American luxury coupe, the Lincoln Continental Mark IV . The Givenchy was the top trim package, painted in Dark Charcoal over Siver two-tone paint, with contrasting medium brown cloth upholstery with

3999-602: The Isuzu Aska (originally marketed as the "Florian Aska") in the Isuzu lineup. Originally available as a six-seater with a column-mounted three-speed shifter (or automatic), a floor-shifted five-seat model called "Owners DeLuxe" was also marketed in the first year. The three-speed manual was replaced with a four-speed manual in April 1968. The dashboard was very distinct, featuring two symmetrical oval, woodgrain-trimmed dashpods for

Isuzu Florian - Misplaced Pages Continue

4128-512: The LD28 diesel. In 1987, there were a minor facelift which revised the bumpers, new grilles and new lights in the front and back. The LD28 diesel engine were swapped out in favor of the similarly dimensioned RD28 . This generation was the only Laurel to be equipped with a V6 engine . The suspension remained as the MacPherson struts for the front wheels and semi-trailing arm with 4-links for

4257-877: The Musashimurayama Plant of the former Prince Motor Company in 2-door and 4-door variants beginning in 1968. The Laurel was not marketed new in Japan at Nissan Prince Store locations that sold the Skyline and Gloria, former Prince products. Instead the Laurel was sold at Nissan Store as the junior model to the Nissan Cedric and executive limousine, V8-powered Nissan President . The Laurel, and its Skyline twin, saw yearly equipment, appearance and trim package changes, so as to appear fresh and new, and every four to five years were given an all-new appearance, while core technology that were tested and reliable remained underneath. Nissan intermittently listed

4386-609: The Toyota Corona Mark II was an all new vehicle at its introduction in 1968, that sought to offer a car that was just under Japanese government regulations concerning maximum vehicle dimensions and engine displacement, thus allowing the Crown to grow larger and more luxurious. Using the established platform of the Corona sedan but slightly larger and wider, it was exclusive to Toyopet Store locations, and offered as

4515-433: The personal luxury coupé wasn't offered. In New Zealand, a two-litre four-cylinder sedan version replaced the six-cylinder Crown in local assembly after the 1970s oil crises prompted the government to impose a 60% sales tax on cars with engines larger than two litres. A few fully built up Crowns were subsequently imported. In other markets, the larger Toyota Crown also remained available. The name " Cressida " derives from

4644-590: The "Circle-F" project), a clandestine effort aimed at producing a world-class luxury sedan for international markets. This led to the creation of an all new, full size luxury sedan designed for export markets and ended up called the Lexus LS . Nissan Laurel#C230 The Nissan Laurel ( Japanese : 日産・ローレル , Hepburn : Nissan Rōreru ) is a two- and four-door sedan manufactured and marketed by Nissan from 1968 to 2002. Later generations added all-wheel-drive along with turbocharged engines. Introduced in 1968 as

4773-458: The "Mark II" as a trim package name and omitted the "Corona" model name while the "Corona" prefix was used internationally for brand recognition. The X10s are sedans and wagons, while the X20 is a two-door coupé. The coupé utility bodystyle was not updated, with the previous generation continuing to be built alongside the new one. The second generation's styling progressed from the first and resembled

4902-455: The "Mark II-L," 2000GSS, 2000GSL, 2000SL, 2000GL, 2000DX, and the 1700DX. Depending on the trim package, the coupe interior was only available in black vinyl or cloth, while the "Mark II-L" came in tan cloth. All came with a three-spoke steering wheel, but the appearance was slightly different. The sport steering wheel had a raised centre hub, while the DX was flat across. The Mark II-L, GSL, and SL had

5031-405: The 1968 Toyota Corona Mark II sedan, and the Mazda Luce which was introduced in 1966. The Laurel did not sell as well as expected, largely because the design was too similar to that of the smaller, modestly priced Bluebird (510) which was developed as a competitor before Nissan bought Prince. The Bluebird was exclusive to Nissan Store , alongside the higher-content luxury Laurel. This car

5160-425: The 1976 Tokyo Motor Show the 1600 sedan no longer appeared in pricelists (leaving only the 1800 Super Deluxe, with a newly desmogged engine with 105 PS,) but the van was still only available with the original overhead valve G161 engine with 84 PS (62 kW) at 5200 rpm. By the time of the 1976 Tokyo Show this was switched to the overhead-cam G161Z engine with 94 PS (69 kW). In October 1977,

5289-634: The 1980s. The Mark II's siblings, the Chaser and the Cresta, were discontinued due to declining sales, partly influenced by the Japanese recession that started in the early 1990s and were combined into the short-lived Toyota Verossa . The Mark II evolved into the Toyota Mark X , a name chosen because it was the tenth generation of the car, which was popular in Japan and selected international markets until

Isuzu Florian - Misplaced Pages Continue

5418-531: The 2.0-litre 18R engine, and were introduced in November 1977. The engine was built in South Africa by Toyota's Motor Assemblies subsidiary. Originally only a fully equipped L version was available, with a lower-priced semi-deluxe version appearing in the first month of 1978. A station wagon, Toyota's first in South Africa, appeared in August 1978. It was available in either semi-deluxe or full deluxe trim,

5547-447: The 2.8-litre inline-six engine, while in other markets smaller units were often available. Much like the contemporary Camry and Corolla, the US market Cressida had a unique interior that differed from other LHD variants, including those sold in nearby Canada, in order to satisfy American design tastes and certain federal requirements. While other LHD Cressidas had essentially a mirror image of

5676-523: The C32 Laurel was released. Osamu Ito, Development Supervisor of the R31/32 Skyline, was assigned to redesign the Laurel. He saw the car needed significant changes and set about doing so. Some of the Laurel's new features included a 4-door sedan body, variations in the hardtop, and a more overall angular appearance, and also introduced the world's first electric retractable door mirrors. The C32

5805-481: The Corona and Corolla wagons; the Crown wagon was no longer sold in North America. The US-exported versions arrived for the 1969 model year and often include the more powerful R series motors compared to other regions. Before its US introduction, it appeared in South Africa, which was the first market to receive the 1900 cc engine. While Japan and other markets often had 1.5-litre 2R , 1.6-litre 7R / 12R to 1.7-litre 6R models as well. Engines were shared with

5934-588: The Corona with a higher level of equipment offered at the time, sharing some of the features of the larger Crown, but taking the top position at Toyopet Store locations. At its introduction, the Mark II was third in Toyota's hierarchy of sedans, below the Crown and the all new, hand built, V8-engined limousine called the Toyota Century . Its competitor was primarily the Nissan Laurel in Japan, released earlier that year in April. The trim packages started with

6063-402: The Corona, with both using the 2R , and the 12R engines. Transmissions offered were an automatic transmission with three speeds for export and two speeds in Japan, or a choice of either a four- or three-speed manual transmission. The second generation was based on a new X series platform, having graduated away from the previous T series chassis. In Japan, the second generation no longer used

6192-610: The Cressida. Its size, ride comfort, and interior accommodations ranged from affordable to luxurious, and it was typically Toyota's most luxurious offering in markets where the more prestigious Crown was not available. Vans and fleet use versions were also offered, although they were gradually discontinued, with taxi production ending in 1995 and the Mark II Van ending in 1997. The last three generations were only available as four-door sedans for private use. The first series, called

6321-682: The Datsun 200L-EV in export markets - developed to be used by the VIPs at the 1975 International Oceanographic Exposition in Okinawa. It was originally engineered by the Prince Motor Company , but produced by Nissan when the company assumed Prince operations in 1966. The C130-EV uses one 16.0 kW (21.5 hp) electric motor, rear-mounted and driving the rear axle through a two-speed automatic transmission. The Nissan Laurel C130-EV has

6450-560: The Florian underwent an extensive facelift. The interior and dash was all new, and at the front were double rectangular headlights. The car was now known as the Florian SII (for "Series II"), but none of this could hide the outdated profile of Isuzu's large sedan. The bumpers were also bigger (and heavier), and there were new, blocky taillights at the rear. The Van also underwent the same facelift, although its delicate, high-mounted taillights still remained unchanged. The facelift also marked

6579-507: The GSS came with a five-speed manual. The Crown line of cars was no longer marketed in North America after 1972 due to disappointing sales. This left a gap offered by Toyota Motor North America , offering the Corolla , Corona , Celica , Land Cruiser , and Hilux truck. Fortunately, the second-generation Mark II increased in size and would be one of the few sensible options for families transitioning from larger American Detroit cars during

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6708-583: The Givenchy logo pattern woven into the fabric. In 1981, the Nissan Laurel Spirit , exclusive to Nissan Store locations, was offered as a smaller alternative to the Laurel, while still offering the luxury content of the larger car. Development Supervisor, Itirou Makoto Sakurai, was in charge of developing the Laurel together with the Skyline. The Laurel's redesign was carried out in a European style and tone. The coefficient of drag (Cd value) of

6837-459: The Laurel for its overall reliability, low price, and ample equipment. Datsun-Nissan South Africa also developed a two-litre four-cylinder option not offered elsewhere to suit local needs with a lower-cost, torquier engine than the two-litre six sold elsewhere. The L20B engine offered 72 kW (98 PS) and was paired with somewhat lower equipment than the 100 kW (136 PS) 280L sold alongside it. November 1978 brought minor changes to

6966-575: The Laurel for sale in various Asian, European and South American markets, labeled as the Datsun Laurel or Datsun 200L until exports from Japan ended after 1989. The Laurel was cancelled subsequent to Nissan's alliance with Renault . The name " laurel " is in reference to a laurel wreath , a symbol of triumph and is worn as a chaplet around the head, or as a garland around the neck. In April 1968, Nissan presented its new Laurel in four-door deLuxe and Super deLuxe versions, both equipped with

7095-574: The Laurel, and an optionally available turbocharged version of the same V6. In February 1988, there was an improved and some 20 releases Super medalist anniversary special edition. In May 1988, the "White Limited" model was released. In September of the same year, the Super Series Selection was added to the lineup. In December, private car and driving school versions were discontinued, leaving only taxis and other commercial models. In January 1989, Laurels with an automatic gearbox received

7224-458: The Laurel, including squaring off of the front headlights. The highest trim level, "Medalist", received air conditioning in addition to its OHC four-cylinder two-litre diesel engine. The 1800 cc cars switched to the newer Z18 crossflow engine and all Laurels now met the Showa 53 (1979) gasoline vehicle emission regulations. The "Medalist" trim package name would continue until 1999 when the Laurel

7353-487: The Mark II hardtop coupe was introduced in September 1968. Two trim packages and two engines were offered. The top trim package was the 1900SL (Sport Luxury) or the 1900 Deluxe using the SOHC 1900 8R-C . The 1900 SL came with power windows, a rear window defroster, and a choice of four exterior colours with a black interior. The instrument panel came standard with a round tachometer, speedometer, volt meter, water temperature, oil pressure, and fuel gauge. The 1900 Deluxe offered

7482-521: The Mark II with the 99 PS (73 kW) DIN (105 PS JIS) 21R engine (RX60) beginning in late 1981. The second-generation Cressida, the MX63 (sedans for model years 1983 and 1984 with new IRS, the wagon and solid rear axle model is the MX62), was a significant redesign from the previous generation. Gone was the coupé version, but a more up-to-date body style was new for the sedan and wagon. Changes from

7611-662: The Mark II, followed by the Mark II Deluxe, Mark II 1900 Deluxe, and the top-level Mark II SL. The four-door sedan was designated the T60, and the two-door coupé the T70. The 1,600 cc 7R series engine was replaced by the 1,700 cc 6R series engine. A year later the 1,500 cc 2R models were replaced by the 1,600 cc 12R engines. The RT62 sedans and the RT72 coupé feature the 1.9-litre 8R four-cylinder engine, unique to

7740-466: The Mark II. The RT63 sedan, RT73 coupé, and RT78/RT79 station wagons feature a two-litre 18R four-cylinder engine, also unique to the Mark II. While only two engines were available yearly to Japanese buyers, yearly changes would be introduced; each year, the two engine choices had two different horsepower ratings. Due to Japan's annual road tax obligation, several trim packages were offered, paired with two engine displacements. The two engine choices kept

7869-412: The RHD interior sold in markets like Japan and Australia, the US spec interior had a unique steering wheel, completely different bottom half of the dashboard with more luxurious soft touch materials, and the major addition of the automatic shoulder belts, which were not offered in any other market. The Cressida was the first car to offer an automatic motorized passive seat belt system, a full year ahead of

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7998-418: The S60 series Crown. It reflected a popular styling trend that appeared internationally during the 1960s and 1970s, called " Coke bottle styling ," which Toyota adopted for only this generation of the Mark II. Japanese trim package names for the sedan were updated with the top level "Mark II-L", followed by the 2000GSL, 2000GL, 2000DX, 1700DX, and the wagon came as either the 2000DX or the 1700DX. The Mark II-L

8127-427: The Skyline. One year later (January 1978) Nissan released a tenth anniversary edition, which adopted a special deep red body color known as "Laurel's Crimson", as well as trim-specific emblems, aluminum wheels and front grille. In 1979, the 2.4-litre L24 engine was added to the lineup. European outputs were 71 and 83 kW (97 and 113 PS) DIN for the 2.0 and the 2.4 inline-sixes. European buyers were attracted to

8256-422: The bigger 1.8 L (1,817 cc) was introduced, with 100 or 115 PS (74 or 85 kW) in the Super Deluxe and 1800TS models respectively. This facelift brought with it a longer, more prominent nose, which also increased the overall length by 50 mm (2.0 in). The 1600 Deluxe (now with the G161S SOHC engine) received this updated bodywork a little later, in December 1970. The lower powered 1800 engine

8385-436: The book was released, entitled simply Florian . Thus, the later Florian SII features stallion badging. Toyota Mark II The Toyota Mark II ( Japanese : トヨタ・マークII , Hepburn : Toyota Māku Tsū ) is a compact , later mid-size sedan manufactured and marketed in Japan by Toyota between 1968 and 2004. Prior to 1972, the model was marketed as the Toyota Corona Mark II . In most export markets, Toyota marketed

8514-406: The car received some improvement and the Turbo Medalist model was new to the lineup. In September 1982, there was a minor change. Up a sense of luxury and large-scale extrusion in the chrome bumpers and rear license plate holder. The taillamp design was changed as well. Instead of the Z18 series engine, the new OHC four-cylinder 1809 cc CA18S engine was fitted to the Laurel 1.8. The engine range

8643-574: The ceiling and could be fastened into place. The styling of the Nissan Laurel began to resemble the larger Gloria but on a slightly smaller platform, with reduced tax liability based on the vehicles dimensions. The Toyota competitor was the Cresta hardtop, while the Skyline was the competitor to the Chaser sedan and in 1986, the Honda Vigor . The RB20E engine was equipped with six-cylinder series SOHC2.0L, VG20ET-SOHC2.0L V6 turbo, CA18S-series four-cylinder (LPG and specifications), LD28-series 6-cylinder diesel SOHC2.8L. The car's system also shared

8772-524: The door was closed and the ignition switched on. All US-market Cressidas from 1981 on were so equipped. In 1983, the Cressida was refreshed and gained an independent semi-trailing link rear suspension, rear vented disc brakes, and the 5M-GE engine. Much of this technology came from the Toyota Supra parts bin with minor differences. A five-speed manual transmission was available, but cars equipped with it were considerably more rare than automatic versions. The electronically controlled A43DE automatic transmission

8901-430: The driver and passenger, with oval gauge pods as well. November 1973 marked another facelift, including a reworked rear end for the sedans. As the vans only saw limited sales they were only changed at the front. The only 1600-engined sedan still available by this time was a taxi version with an LPG-powered version of the overhead valve G161 engine, with 78 PS (57 kW) SAE and a three-speed column-shifted manual. By

9030-430: The driver to limit the adjustment information being provided by the sonar sensor, and change the setting from "Auto" to "Soft", "Medium" or "Hard" settings. The speed-sensitive rack-and-pinion power steering could also be separately reduced for a sporting feeling, and the suspension setting would modify both the steering feel and the shift points on the automatic transmission. The Medalist could be optionally installed with

9159-429: The emissions regulations, the twin-carburetted engines were all discontinued. The 1,770 cc L18 replaced the G18 in the lineup. In February 1976 carburetted 1.8-litre and 2.0-litre engines which met the 1976 emissions regulations were introduced, and were identified with the Nissan NAPS badge. In 1974 Nissan developed an electric passenger sedan based on the Nissan Laurel. The Nissan Laurel C130-EV - referred to as

9288-472: The end of the Mark II nameplate. It was not until 1988 that Toyota would offer Japanese buyers an engine over two litres in the Mark II/Chaser/Cresta family again. The Toyota Chaser was released in 1977 as a competitor to the Nissan Skyline sedan. The first Chaser was a Mark II with a slightly differing front and rear treatment, of a performance class compared to the Mark II, and replaced

9417-459: The four-door hardtop front driver and passenger seat belt shoulder strap was connected at the top to the ceiling, however, the upper portion could be detached, with the shoulder strap emerging from the side door support, resting on the driver's and passenger's shoulder. This provided rear passengers an unobstructed view from the rear seat without the seat belt hanging from the ceiling when the windows were retracted. The upper part would then swing up to

9546-425: The four-door hardtop is 0.38. The lowest-priced Z18 is a four-cylinder engine, as is the 2-litre Z20. The L20-series are inline-six cylinder models, also available in fuel injected L20E type, and as the turbocharged L20ET - the first turbocharged Laurel. On top of the lineup was the 2.8-litre L28E, and for some export markets the 2.4-litre L24 engine (usually carburetted) was also offered. Mostly for commercial use there

9675-475: The front wheels. In export markets, a version was sold as a station wagon, whilst in Japan, it was marketed as a van intended for commercial use. Due to the introduction of the Toyota Hilux pickup truck, the previously offered Mark II pickup was discontinued. The suspension carried over from the previous series, using double wishbones for the front wheels, while the coupe used 4-link with coil springs and

9804-472: The front wheels. The GSS offered the 1,968 cc 18R-G DOHC four-cylinder with dual carburetors for 1972–1974, upgrading to electronic fuel injection starting in 1975, while the Mark II-L coupe offered the 1,988 cc M straight six engine in 1972 then upgraded in 1973 to the 1,988 cc M-E fuel injected version. The transmission was either a four-speed manual or a three-speed automatic, but

9933-412: The gasoline engine was updated with the new I·CAS emissions system (a two-way catalytic converter) and exhaust recirculation valve. The modified engine, which meets the 1978 emissions standards for gasoline passenger vehicles, also has five extra horsepower for a total of 110 PS (81 kW). One month later the diesel's Bosch "A" injection system was updated to the newer "VE" system, in order to meet

10062-463: The growing demand for SUVs and crossovers , which saw the Mark X canceled in 2019. The Corona Mark II, first offered for sale in Japan, September 1968, at Toyopet Store dealerships, was intended as an alternative model to the more established luxury sedan, the Crown , sold at Toyota Store dealerships, and the smaller Corona , also available at Toyopet Stores . It was a slightly larger vehicle than

10191-476: The hood of the more affordable Bellett . To separate the Florian from the lesser Belletts, the more expensive 1600 Super Deluxe was added in March 1968. This model benefitted from plush standard equipment, including air conditioning and leather seats. The list of standard equipment expanded so that the Florian would compete for sales against more popular products from larger Japanese manufacturers, helping to justify

10320-481: The introduction of a diesel-engined model (appearing in November), which provided a useful boost to the Florian's sales. The sales gain was short-lived, however, as diesel-engined versions of Nissan's Laurel , Mazda Luce and Toyota's Mark II rivals arrived during 1978 and 1979. The Florian II also received improved equipment, including a variable-ratio steering gear and heating ducts in the rear seat. In May 1979,

10449-502: The larger engine. The Mark II Grande continued to be available with a larger engine, the 2.8-liter 5M-EU inline-six producing 145 PS (107 kW). In 1982, the twin-cam 1G-GEU engine was added, and in 1983 the automatic transmission was changed to an electronically controlled four-speed. The top-of-the-line "Grande" version continued to be available, only in combination with the more powerful engine options. The Van generally received less powerful engines, had very sparse equipment, and

10578-455: The latter only as an automatic. The fourth-generation Mark II was introduced in October 1980. The two-door coupé was no longer offered, which was replaced by the Soarer . The fourth generation was now available as a four-door sedan, pillared hardtop , or as a station wagon, the last of which is marketed for commercial use in Japan. The all-new Crown offered the same bodystyles, also losing

10707-503: The lead character in William Shakespeare 's play Troilus and Cressida , inspired by Cressida , a female Trojan character. Depending on the market it was sold in, it had the 4M carbureted engine (MX32, MX36), the 18R engine (RX30, RX32, RX35) or 3T engine (TX30). The North American models started with the carbureted 4M engine (MX32) but in mid-1978 the fuel-injected 4M-E replaced its carbureted counterpart – this

10836-456: The legal requirement taking effect. The centre console is also different and includes two levers for both driver and passenger with "LIFT FOR EMERGENCY EXIT" decals that are designed to release the tension in the automatic shoulder belts when they lock up as designed in a collision or panic stop situation. The US-market 1981 Cressida was the first car to come with motorized automatic shoulder harnesses which wrapped around front seat occupants when

10965-524: The lower spec and commercial versions. In the Autumn of 1978, the C230 received a mild facelift (type C231), marked visually by squared instead of round double headlights. The Toyota competitor was the Mark II coupé and sedan. Again, comfort was prioritized over handling and agility, while still using the identical MacPherson struts for the front wheels and Semi-trailing arm for the rear suspension from

11094-677: The new RD28-series six-cylinder diesel engine. In May 1987, the "Grande Extra White Special" edition was released. In August of the same year, the Grande Touring Limited was added to lineup. Beginning January 1988, the Laurel was joined by a longer version at 2,735 mm (107.7 in) of the Nissan Gloria stablemate, called the Nissan Gloria Cima which offered an improved version of the V6 engine available on

11223-474: The previous generation Mark II GSS hardtop coupe. Later generations received more differentiated styling. The idea of the Chaser was to offer a sportier version of the Mark II, which was sold at a Japanese Toyota dealership called Toyota Auto Store , often with larger engines. The Chaser was an alternative to Japanese buyers as the dealership had only offered one car called the Toyota Sprinter , which

11352-415: The previous generation included a larger engine using electronic fuel injection, now up to 116 hp (87 kW) at 4800 rpm in North American trim. The 5M-E would power the 1981 and 1982 model years before it was superseded by the 5M-GE , a DOHC engine with a substantially higher power rating, 143 hp (107 kW) in 1983 and 1984. North American X60-series Cressidas all received versions of

11481-424: The rear suspension from the Skyline. If the Laurel was installed with the " Super Sonic Suspension " system, a sonar module was mounted under the front bumper and scanned the road surface, adjusting the suspension accordingly via actuators mounted on all four coil over shock absorbers and the front suspension was installed with a multi-link suspension . There was also a switch on the center console that allowed

11610-516: The rear suspension from the Skyline. The Laurel remained exclusive to Nissan Store , the Skyline at Nissan Prince Store , and the new Leopard coupe and sedan were exclusive to Nissan Store remaining as an upscale alternative to the Bluebird, while the Laurel added more luxury equipment and a price point to match. The Toyota competitor was the Cresta hardtop while the Skyline was an alternative to

11739-569: The rear wheels that was fitted on the C10 Skyline. August 1970 saw the release of a modified version of the four-door sedan version, now with the same roof angle as that of the hard top. The instrument panel received redesigned panel meters, and the more luxurious GL grade was added. The Laurel 2000GX, Nissans first hardtop, was introduced June 1970 and was equipped with the Prince developed SOHC 1,990 cc G20 -series four-cylinders with either

11868-419: The rear. A feature that was unique to the 2000GX was the stylish at the time sequential rear turn signals, where three light blubs would flash from the center to the outer edge on both the coupe and sedan. All Laurel coupes were also given a vinyl roof as standard equipment. In April 1972, the second Laurel generation appeared, again in four-door saloon and two-door hardtop coupé form affectionately known as

11997-411: The road tax obligation the same because the displacement was below the 2,000 cc bracket, which would incur more to be paid. This was the only series offered as a two-door pickup for commercial use. The Mark II pickup also came as a "double cab" which meant it had a conventional bench seat for rear passengers but only had two doors. Both forms of the pickup shared the same dimensions and wheelbase as

12126-476: The same chassis as the GT-X and GT-R while having a longer wheelbase. The GT-R garnered most of the attention, having been raced and built for that purpose, while the 2000GX was developed for comfortable yet spirited performance. The 2000GX used the same 5-speed manual transmission , an available limited slip differential, and also used semi-trailing arm strut suspension, with disc brakes at the front and drum brakes at

12255-423: The same chassis code whether fitted in the hardtop or the sedan. In August 1973, there were minor changes and updates. The basic trim package wagon was offered with a five-speed manual transmission. Electronic fuel injection was introduced on the two-litre four-cylinder (18R) engine to increase power and lower fuel emissions. The four-cylinder 1,707 cc 6R engine was replaced by the 1,808 cc 16R . The 1.8

12384-437: The sedan and coupe. The height of the Mark II is lower at 1,405 mm (55.3 in) over 1,420 mm (55.9 in) for the sedan, but higher at 1,374 mm (54.1 in) for the coupé. The wheelbase for all body styles was a constant 2,510 mm (98.8 in) and was longer than the Corona's sedan wheelbase of 2,420 mm (95.3 in). Building on the introduction of the 1600GT performance hardtop coupe for 1965,

12513-448: The sedan and wagon used semi-elliptic leaf springs. The engines offered began with the 1.7-litre inline-four and grew in displacement with increased standard equipment utilizing an overhead camshaft design. The X10 through 13 are sedans, 16- and 17-series numbers were reserved for vans, 20 through 23 for coupés, and 26 through 29 for wagons. The only exception to this scheme is the 18R-U–engined RX15, introduced in June 1976, which received

12642-415: The station wagon. The suspension setup uses a double wishbone with coil springs at the front and leaf springs at the back with a front-engine, rear-drive powertrain format. The Mark II is longer, at 4,295 mm (169.1 in) over the Corona's length of 162.4 in (4,125 mm) for the sedan, and the coupe, with a width of 1,610 mm (63.4 in) in comparison to 61 in (1,549 mm) for

12771-431: The stricter 1979 emissions standards. In March 1980 the old symmetrical dashboard was retired in favor of the one also used in the 117 Coupé, a version which was not available for left-hand drive. Production ended in October 1982, but stock lasted until April 1983 when the new Florian Aska replaced it. There were only 145,836 Florian sedans produced during the 15 years of the model's existence, and 42,625 Vans. The Florian

12900-489: The tachometer with an electric clock. Some models had six-cylinder engines, optionally with electronic fuel injection, borrowed from the larger Crown . For the Japanese market, all engines were gradually upgraded with Toyota's TTC-C technology to comply with the Japanese Government's Clean Air Act of 1975 and had a "TTC-C" badge on the rear of the vehicle. In late October 1977, the 3T-U four-cylinder engine

13029-563: The time were the four-cylinder 1815 cc G18 and 1990 cc G20, and the six-cylinder 1998 cc L20. Both the G20 and L20 were available with twin SU carburetors as an option. However, only the G20 equipped cars outwardly announced this with a "Twin Carburetor 2000GX" badge. Sales in Japan (very few were exported) ran to about 96,000 per year, with three-quarters sedans. The Toyota competitor

13158-461: The two-door hardtop coupé. The exterior dimensions of the Mark II and Crown were essentially the same, and the Mark II continued as the top-level product at Toyopet Store locations. Engine options were either the 1G-EU , turbocharged M-TEU , 5M-EU, and a fuel-injected version of the twin-cam 18R-G available in the GT. 2.2 and 2.4-litre diesel engines of the L family , with turbocharging available for

13287-476: The upholstery used were specific to the trim package, while there were 14 different exterior colours to choose including 10 metallic paint selections. The Mark II-L and the 2000SGL came with full instrumentation and a wood-grained steering wheel, a wooden-handled gearshift selector for floor-mounted automatic or 5-speed manual transmission, while a column-mounted automatic transmission selector was provided for lower trim packages. The DX sedan and station wagon offered

13416-667: The vehicle as the Toyota Cressida between 1976 and 1992 across four generations. Toyota replaced the rear-wheel-drive Cressida in North America with the front-wheel-drive Avalon . Every Mark II and Cressida was manufactured at the Motomachi plant at Toyota, Aichi , Japan from September 1968 to October 1993, and later at Toyota Motor Kyushu 's Miyata plant from December 1992 to October 2000, with some models also assembled in Jakarta , Indonesia and Parañaque , Philippines as

13545-475: The yearly road tax bill for using a large displacement engine, while remaining compliant with Japanese Government dimension regulations . In March 1969 the sportier 1600 TS ("Touring Sports") appeared, fitted with the Bellett GT's twin carb engine, producing 90 PS (66 kW) at 5,400 rpm. Originally fitted with large, single rectangular headlights, the sporting 1600 TS introduced twin round units,

13674-517: Was also available in the Van version (PA30V). The Florian was originally available as a four-door sedan and a five-door station wagon (the latter did not last until the end of production). The six-light glasshouse is of an unusual shape, with the rear doors being shared with the double-cab Isuzu Faster (KB) pickup truck. The spacious Florian replaced the Isuzu Bellel and was in turn replaced by

13803-483: Was another improvement over the previous hydraulically controlled A43DL transmission and had three modes: Power, Normal, and Economy. This iteration was praised for its handling, ride, quiet interior, and most of all, its reliability; the Cressida was quickly gaining a reputation for outstanding ownership. In August 1983, Toyota chairman Eiji Toyoda initiated the F1 project ("Flagship" and "No. 1 vehicle"; alternatively called

13932-543: Was available in both sedan and wagon body styles. The only engine available was the 18R and there was one trim level, badged De Luxe . Contrary to common practice, this was not the same as DX specifications on other Toyota cars, but a more upmarket version of the DX trim level. The Toyota Carina sedan and wagon also sold in the United Kingdom at this time were also badged as De Luxe (but were rebadged as DX from 1980 onwards). South African Cressidas all received

14061-407: Was available), power steering, rear seat armrests, AM/FM cassette stereo with amplifier, reclining front seats, and a rear window defroster. The automatic transmission was a four-speed overdrive with an overdrive lockout. Power windows were optional. Soundproofing was extensive, and the Cressida was famous for being one of the quietest cars on the road at the time. In the United Kingdom, the Cressida

14190-740: Was based on the Toyota Corolla . The Corona Mark II was renamed the Toyota Cressida for export markets, and the name Cressida was not used in Japan. Production started in December 1976. The name Mark II was previously identified with the North American Continental Mark II which first appeared in 1956 and the term "Mark" is still associated with Lincoln Motor Company products. It was Toyota's largest sedan and wagon range offered in North America, while

14319-417: Was between the outputs of the single- and twin-carb four-cylinder models. In order to accommodate the larger engine, the L also received different front sheet metal with a split grille. This style was standard in the US market, where all Mark IIs received the six-cylinder engine, and where this was also offered in the station wagon bodystyle. There were slight trim differences at the rear. Interior colours and

14448-563: Was cancelled. Later, in October 1979, a two-litre four-cylinder gasoline option (Z20-series) was added in several markets. Also new were the options of automatic transmission and the SGL equipment grade on diesel vehicles. In February 1980, an electric sunroof was added to the hardtop version of the Medalist. This was the first year in which a sunroof was a model option. In July 1980, a special limited edition "gold medalist" top-of-the-line trim

14577-692: Was developed by the Nissan Tsurumi vehicle development team, but the C30 Laurel was fitted with the Prince four-cylinder SOHC engine, the G18 of 1,815 cc capacity. Conversely, the GC10 Skyline 2000GT was developed by the former Prince Ogikubo vehicle development team but was fitted with Nissan's L20 six-cylinder SOHC engine. The suspension is the same MacPherson struts for all wheels and Semi-trailing arm independent suspension for

14706-482: Was discontinued in October 1975, leaving only two-litre engines of four or six cylinders in the Japanese market. Even after the introduction of the next Mark II, production of the second generation continued through November 1976. Engine choices included: The hardtop coupe, offered as an alternative to the Crown Coupe , offered a visual distinction from the sedans and station wagons. The trim packages started with

14835-562: Was installed in the console for the Mark II-L and the GSL and was installed in the instrument cluster for other versions. The list of optional items included cruise control, air conditioning, electric rear window defroster, AM/FM stereo with a separately installed 8-track tape player , and power windows. Standard items added include a collapsible steering column in case of collision, three-point seat belts for front passengers with an audible seatbelt reminder, and power assist brakes with disc brakes for

14964-407: Was introduced as the top-level trim package, available with either the 2.6 or 2.0-litre version of the six-cylinder engine; it was the only version to be offered with the 2.6 engine in Japan, which was also not available in the Chaser. If it had the 2.6 L engine, a "2600" badge was installed on the rear of the vehicle and the bottom right portion of the front grille. The Grande trim name remained until

15093-615: Was introduced with a more upscale, European-type design. The lines combine the previous generation's American styling with a British-looking front end rather than using the new corporate Toyota appearance as seen on the larger S80 series Crown . This model generation was amongst the last cars to feature the Toyopet brand name, which was dropped in 1980. The name continued to be used for the Japanese Toyopet Store dealership. This generation continued to offer Japanese buyers

15222-636: Was one of the first Toyotas in the US to use fuel injection . In 1979, the MSRP in the US was US$ 9,190 . Cressidas sold in California were installed with the TTC-C technology to comply with the emissions regulations but were not given a badge on the back of the vehicle. In New Zealand, where it was locally assembled and sold in a highly specified GL form (replacing the 2.8-litre Crown which had been hit by high sales taxes on two-litre-plus engine sizes), it had

15351-475: Was only sold in limited markets across the globe as Isuzu's passenger products were, for the most part, not sold through General Motors ' channels. However the pickup derivative, the Isuzu Faster , was widely exported using Isuzu's relationship with General Motors and enjoyed a considerably greater market penetration than the sedan. The pickup was sold in North America as the Chevrolet LUV , in Europe as

15480-631: Was overhauled at the time and now included the CA18S, L20E, turbocharged L20ET, the four-cylinder SOHC Z20S, and the diesel LD20 and LD28-6 models. The carburetted L20, the L28E, and the column-shifted LD20 (six-seater) were discontinued. The six-cylinder gasoline-powered car with automatic transmission and Super Touring equipment received an overdrive gear at the same time. In November 1982, the Turbo Medalist Givenchy Version II

15609-500: Was released. The C31 model, introduced in November 1980, was the first model that was only available in a four-door form, either as a sedan or hardtop . Engines for the C31 were 1.8-liter, 2.0-liter L20, 2.4-liter L24 gasoline, and 2.8-liter diesel. The coupé was replaced by the new Nissan Leopard F30 , while the Laurel and Leopard continued to use the same MacPherson struts for the front wheels and semi-trailing arm with 4-links for

15738-463: Was released. In February 1983, the "50 Special" released. In March, the Givenchy II version went on sale. In May, another 50 Special II vehicles were launched. In July, electrically retractable fender and door mirrors were introduced, a first. In October, taxi and driver instruction vehicles with an OHC LPG four-cylinder engine (Z18P, Standard or GL equipment) were added. SGL Grand Touring car (with

15867-405: Was somewhat shorter than its passenger car equivalent due to the use of more compact bumpers. This Mark II generation included commercial, taxi, and drivers training vehicles. The Mark II was common alongside the slightly smaller Corona as a taxi. The X60 Mark II introduced the world's first voice warning system, which was developed and offered as standard equipment. In Indonesia, it was sold as

15996-416: Was supplied by Sony. Also available was a modification to the front passenger seat Nissan called "Partner Comfort Seat" where the top portion of the front passenger seat was further articulated to tilt forward, supporting the passengers shoulders while allowing the seatback structure to recline. The front edge of the passenger seat cushion was also adjustable. To enhance rear passenger comfort and convenience,

16125-429: Was the Mark II coupé and sedan. In October 1973 the first Laurel with the 2565 cc L26 six-cylinder engine was added and badged as "2600SGL". Since the engine was over two litres, it was not restrained by the size limits imposed by Japanese regulations, and therefore it was fitted with bigger bumpers than regular Laurels. The installation of the 2.6-litre engine in Japanese models helped identify this generation as

16254-600: Was the first time a six-cylinder engine was offered using the 1,988 cc M . The inline six-cylinder "M" series engine was borrowed from the Crown S60 to stay competitive with the Nissan Bluebird SSS (Datsun 610 in North America) and the Nissan Laurel in Japan. Engine displacement remained at two litres, but with the inherent lower vibration of a six-cylinder. Power, at 110 PS (81 kW),

16383-451: Was the four-cylinder LD20 diesel engine, while private users usually preferred the larger six-cylinder LD28 type which was also available with much better equipment. In February 1981, the GX trim level was added. L20E sedan with independent rear suspension in the vehicle suspension formula (a six-link independent rear suspension was equipped as standard on the turbocharged cars). In November 1981,

16512-487: Was the last model to be sold in Europe, where the Laurel was replaced by the front-wheel-drive Nissan Maxima (PU11) which was not available as a diesel and had a sportier, more luxurious air. The C32 were fitted with a variety of gasoline engines, inline-fours and V6 engines ranging from 1.8 to 3.0 liters. Some engines, like the L24 and the electronically carbureted VG30S were reserved for export. The C32 Laurel also came with

16641-454: Was upgraded to pass the 1978 emissions standards with the aid of a lean-burn design. The X30-series chassis numbers were the original codes for the third-generation Mark II, and any vehicle that complied with the new, stricter 1978 emission regulations was assigned the X40 series number. Four-cylinder engines were offered for Japanese buyers who wanted the luxury of the six-cylinder models but wanted

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