The Be-1 was the first of the “Pike Factory” cars. It created quite a stir at the 1985 Tokyo Motor Show. The public loved the retro styling, and when the order taking process began, all of the planned 10,000 Be-1’s were spoken for in just a few days. The demand was so great that on the used market, Be-1’s were selling for triple their original $10,000 sticker price. The Be-1 is based on the Nissan Micra. Styling cues taken from Renault’s Dauphine include the entire face with round headlights and sliding fabric roof. The cargo pack on the trunk lid was an option from the dealer. Capitalizing on the popularity of the Be-1, Nissan opened the Be-1 shop in Tokyo selling a variety of items related to the Be-1.
Specifications:
Manufacturer: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.
Country of Origin: Japan
Drivetrain Configuration: Front engine, front wheel drive
Engine: 1.0 liter
Transmission: 3 speed automatic
Top Speed: 80 miles per hour
Years of Production: 1987
Number Produced: 10,000
Original Cost: around $10,000