The Nissan S-Cargo was first shown at the 1987 Tokyo Motor Show. From 1989 until 1992, only about 8,000 were produced. The small but tall cargo area made it an ideal delivery vehicle in urban areas, with a payload limited to 660 pounds. The S-Cargo is based on the Nissan Sunny/Sentra. In Europe and Asia, it is highly prized as a promotional vehicle. Some vans came with porthole windows; those without were often painted with advertising. The S-Cargo has two seats and a small folding seat in the back. "Escargot" is the French word for snail. One look at this vehicle's round lines and hubcaps, and you understand how it received this nickname.
The styling is very derivative of the French Citroën 2CV "Truckette." The concept for both vehicles is the same: a small, efficient delivery vehicle based on existing mechanicals. The styling of the vehicles is quite similar, with their rounded foreheads and pop-up snail-like eyes for headlights. The S-Cargo is the only Pike Factory car not badged externally as a Nissan.
Specifications
Manufacturer: Nissan Motor Co. Ltd.
Country of Origin: Japan
Drivetrain Configuration: Front-engine, front-wheel drive
Engine: 1500cc, four cylinder, water-cooled
Transmission: 3 speed automatic
Top Speed: 80 miles per hour
Years of Production: 1989-92
Number Produced: around 8,000
Original Cost: around $9,200
Source: Nissan S-Cargo-1989 - Lane Motor Museum. https://www.lanemotormuseum.org/collection/cars/item/nissan-s-cargo-1989
Images: Nissan
