A 1998 Nissan wagon with an RB26DETT engine? Shut up and take my money!
In the diverse world of Japanese cars, the 1998 Nissan Stagea 260RS Autech stands out as a unique blend of practicality and performance. This model, which recently fetched $36,000 on Cars & Bids, is more than just a wagon; it’s a rare piece of automotive history, combining the versatility of a family car with the heart of a legendary sports car.
The Stagea 260RS Autech is an interesting footnote in the story of the Nissan R33 GT-R, a vehicle revered for its aggressive styling and robust performance. Unlike the more well-known GT-R, the Stagea takes these attributes and packages them into a more practical wagon form. Despite its utilitarian design, the Stagea is far from ordinary, especially with its GT-R-inspired powertrain.
Under the hood lies the R33 GT-R’s 2.6-liter RB26DETT straight-six engine, equipped with dual turbochargers. This setup is complemented by a five-speed manual transmission and the ATTESSA ET-S all-wheel-drive system, similar to the GT-R. It’s not just the engine that makes the Stagea special; it also features a limited-slip differential and four-wheel steering, enhancing its handling and drivability. Officially rated at 280 hp and 271 lb-ft of torque, it delivers performance that belies its station wagon exterior.
Despite its impressive lineage, the Stagea 260RS Autech remains a rarity, with only 1,734 units produced. This scarcity adds to its appeal among collectors and JDM enthusiasts. The model sold in the US is a testament to its enduring allure, showing remarkably well for a 25-year-old vehicle with a reasonable 83,500 miles on the odometer.
While wagons might not dominate the US market, the Stagea 260RS Autech stands as an intriguing alternative to the more common European models like the Mercedes-Benz E-Class Wagon or the Porsche Panamera Sport Turismo. Its blend of JDM performance and practicality offers something unique, particularly for those who appreciate the legacy of the Nissan GT-R but require the versatility of a larger vehicle.
In the end, the Nissan Stagea 260RS Autech might not compete with the latest high-performance wagons on the highway, but it holds a special place in the world of JDM cars. It’s a reminder that performance and practicality can coexist, even in a package that’s as unexpected as a high-powered station wagon.
Gallery: 1998 Nissan Stagea 260RS Autech
