Nissan creates Micra 350SR Restomod ahead of EV launch

The 350SR restomod celebrates the 23rd anniversary of the Micra

The Nissan Micra. My first car…well, technically, it belonged to my parents.

After 23 years on the roads, and like so many well known hatchbacks, the petrol Micra will soon make way for an electric version, signalling the end of an era in many ways. This seems to be the way of the automotive world nowadays.

Ahead of the electric Micra’s launch, Nissan GB has given the 350SR version of its reliable hatchback a final flourish with the creation of a restomod. While usual restomods strip the original car to its bare bones, Nissan - and its team of designers in Paddington, London - has chosen to respect the Micra 350SR’s heritage and go with a light-touch approach, while simultaneously bringing the car up to date.

A fresh look, updated components and modern tech give the petrol Micra the fitting send off it deserves.

How was the Micra 350SR created?

Originally in the works as early as 2002, the 350SR was commissioned to showcase the model’s little known racing pedigree in Japanese motorsport. Based on a 2002 Micra K12, the 350SR was created by the racing team behind Nissan’s British Touring Car successes in the 1990s.

The model was never officially put into production, although it did find its way on to EVO magazine’s ‘fast fleet’ for a period of time, where it became a favourite of many of the writers at the publication.

Engine & Design

Still powered by a 3.5-litre V6 engine from a Murano with headers from a 350Z and a modified ECU, the Micra 350SR restomod gets a 35hp increase, bringing it to around 300hp.

At first glance, what stands out the most is the 350SR restomod’s wacky paintwork. Out goes the former red livery, and in comes a satin ‘liquid silver’ base with blue, all based on Nissan’s new ‘=III 23’ iconography, which appears on the new Micra and Leaf. It takes inspiration from the rear lights of the 300ZX

This is met by gloss black on the grille and lower parts of the restomod, along with original, newly refurbished 18 inch RAYS 350Z alloy wheels. The car is finished off by LED headlights are paired with semi-circular daytime running for a brighter view ahead.

Interior

Inside, there are new racing seats and harnesses, while the 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system is given an upgrade, becoming Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatible. Yes, it may seem a little basic, but the 350SR restomod is one to purely be taken out on track.

First Appearance

The Micra 350SR will make its first appearance at the 2025 SMMT Test Day at Millbrook Proving Ground on May 15th, 20 years after frequenting the venue during its original development.

And if you’re wondering why the 23rd anniversary of a car holds so much significance for Nissan, then wonder no longer. According to the Japanese brand, the number 23 sounds like ‘Nissan’ in Japanese, with the pronunciation of ‘2’ (ni) and ‘3’ (san). It’s why the number has been featured on its NISMO racing cars for almost 40 years.

words: Mike Booth
pictures: Nissan