NISSAN D21 (1997)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 63 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
83%
Total Tests (2024)
63
Avg Mileage
74,004 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£1,900
Is the 1997 NISSAN D21 reliable?
Good reliability. Occasional issues but generally solid. That's close to the national average of 82%.
At 27 years old, 83% of NISSAN D21s from 1997 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 63 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 74,004 miles.
How does the 1997 NISSAN D21 compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 1997 NISSAN D21 has 74,004 miles on the clock, which is significantly below the expected 199,800 miles for a 27-year-old car. Low-mileage examples may have spent time sitting unused, so check for issues like corroded brakes or perished rubber seals.
How much does a 1997 NISSAN D21 cost to run?
Based on 7,400 miles/year (UK average), current fuel prices, and repair likelihood from MOT pass rate data. Insurance not included.
NISSAN D21 by Year
Checking a specific NISSAN D21?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 1997 NISSAN D21
The 1997 NISSAN D21 is a large car with a 2494cc diesel engine. 63 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a rare model on UK roads. It ranks in the top 22% of all 1997 cars for reliability.
With an average of 74,004 miles at 27 years old, NISSAN D21 owners tend to use this car less than the typical driver. Very low mileage could mean the car has been garaged or used only for short trips, which can cause its own issues like battery drain and moisture buildup.
1997 NISSAN D21 Fuel Costs
The 2494cc diesel engine offers a reasonable balance between performance and economy. Expect around 40 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,245 per year at current diesel prices of 148p per litre (based on 7,400 miles per year). Diesel cars of this age should have their DPF (diesel particulate filter) checked, as replacements can be costly.
What does it cost to own a 1997 NISSAN D21?
Total estimated annual running cost is £1,900 (£158/month), broken down as £1245 fuel, £250 road tax, £55 MOT, and £350 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 83% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
Buying a Used 1997 NISSAN D21
At 27 years old, the NISSAN D21 is firmly in budget territory. Purchase prices are low, but check for rust, worn suspension bushes, and electrical gremlins. A full service history is especially valuable at this age. Note: with only 63 tests in our data, these figures should be treated as indicative rather than definitive.
Alternatives to the 1997 NISSAN D21
The NISSAN D21 is actually the most reliable option among similar diesel large cars from this era. Here are comparable diesel cars with similar engines:
- VOLKSWAGEN TRANSPORTER (1999) 70% pass rate (-13%) from 12,854 tests
- LAND ROVER DEFENDER (1997) 76% pass rate (-7%) from 10,084 tests
- LAND ROVER DISCOVERY (1999) 75% pass rate (-8%) from 5,978 tests
- FORD TRANSIT (1998) 72% pass rate (-11%) from 3,080 tests