Another update...
... and probably Nissans only attempt at a mid-engined supercar...
1985-87 Nissan MID4 (Type I and II)
"A grand protoype, for a grand vision."
The 1985 Type I:
Nissans infamous MID4 prototype actually came to fruition in 1985 as the 'Type 1', and was completely revised in 1987 as the Type II, or better known as the 'MID4 II'. The Type I MID4 prototype was displayed at motorshows all the time the project was running, but Nissans original intent for the project was to test new technologies (chiefly focusing on roadgoing performance) and ideas on a capable chassis where, if successful, those new technologies would filter down into the domestic model lineup. After many extremely favourable receptions at motorshow events, Nissan finally warmed to the idea of building a world class supercar as it's long term goal. The Type I introduced a 4WD system that would eventuate in the ATTESA system as found on many of Nissans sports orientated models, the most obvious one being the BNR32 Skyline GT-R of 1989. The HICAS 4-wheel steering system was also tested on the MID4, again eventually finding it's way into many mainstream Nissan models. Add to this 4 wheel discs and an Anti-lock Braking System, the MID4 was extremely advanced for 1985 and showed other manufacturers what Nissan was capable of.
One of two Type I MID4s produced.
The original Pearl white version.
A VG30DE (3000cc, DOHC 24 valve) powerplant was used in the original Type I, producing 230ps @ 6,000rpm and 28.0kg/m torque, which was good enough to exceed 250km/h. The twin cam version of the VG30 was introduced a year later in 1986 in the Z31 Series II updated model. Looking at the Z31 Series II you can see some of the MID4s styling coming through especially on the front bumper and fenders, as - if successful - the MID4 was considered to replace the Fairlady Z by the late 1980s. By the end of the second year of development Nissan decided that development of the Type I had reached it's limit, and a new layout was needed.
The 1987 Type II:
The biggest and most obvious change between Type I and Type II was the engine placement. Whereas the Type I had a horizontal engine layout to minimize rear overhang behind the rear wheels, the Type II layout was dramatically changed and lengthened to accomodate a longitudinal layout with the addition of two turbochargers and intercoolers, to the detriment of the minimal overhang sought after in the Type I. An FR transaxel (well, RF in this case) was deemed necessary as the limit of the original prototype ATTESA 4WD system would be exceeded if any more performance where to be added. As the picture below shows, the Type II was basically a prototype of the BNR32 GT-R layout, but the other way around... and with the (then) new VG30DETT instead. The new twin turbo powerplant produced 330ps @ 6,800rpm and 39.0kg/m torque at 3,200rpm, enough to propel the 1400kg coupe to 295+km/h.
The Type II now had front and rear Viscous LSDs, aswell as an HICAS oil pressure pressure cylinder mounted on the suspension arm for each rear wheel, greatly improving the lock to lock movement and reaction time. One interesting feature of the ATTESA system on the Type II was that it was possible to disengage all drive to the front wheels. This feature wasn't intended to to become part of the ATTESA system, but rather as a way in which to demonstrate the power of ATTESA itself. There were at least three prototypes produced, two for show duties and one silver coloured one which was used for track testing. The systems incorporated into the Type II MID4 were immediately obvious, and from this program Nissan embarked on another supercar program, but due to the worsening economic climate in Japan, was never realised.
The proportions of the Type II were an instant hit with double wishbone suspension on the front enabling a low nose design, which when viewed from side on, takes an a very beautiful shape reminiscent of a smaller Ferrari 348 as opposed to the Type I's Testarossa looks. This car was one of the prototypes responsible for the 'copycat design' which many accused the Japanese manufacturers of in the late 80's and early 90's. Spriralling costs put an end to the MID4 program, and it's appointment as successor to the Z31 Fairlady Z would never come about. The BNR32 GT-R and Z32 Fairlady Z of 1989 would eventually utillize most of the technology introduced with the MID4, and eventually the HICAS and ATTESA systems would trickle down throughout Nissans lineup to even the Pulsar and Bluebird models... in one form or another.
Type II interior lent cues to Z32 Fairlady Z.
Steering wheel may be familiar to some...
Name: Nissan MID4 (II)
Chassis: -
Layout: Midship 4WD
Engine: VG30DE(TT) DOHC 24 Valve V6
Capacity: 2960cc
Power: 230ps (330ps) @ 6,000rpm (6,800rpm)
Torque: 28kg/m (39.0kg/m) @ ---- (3,200rpm)
Transmission: 5MT
Suspension: Double wishbone
Weight: 1400kg
performance: 4.9sec 0-100km/h, max speed 250+km/h