4x4_AU_2016_08_

THE MQ PATROL
WHEN the MQ Patrol (160 Series) was introduced to replace the
60 Series in 1980, the worldwide four-wheel drive market was
rapidly evolving. While still based on a relatively basic platform
(separate chassis and live-axle, leaf-spring suspension), the MQ
Patrol had a more modern body style, was available in bright
colours with ‘loud’ graphics, offered a choice of petrol and diesel
six-cylinder engines and included short-wheelbase and long-
wheelbase models in the line-up, along with a variety of body
styles (SWB hardtop, pick-up, cab-chassis and wagon).
Driveline variants included a 3.3-litre diesel engine and
2.8- and 4.0-litre petrol engines. Initially a four-speed manual
gearbox was the only option, but by the end of 1981 buyers
of the deluxe seven-seat wagon could opt for a three-speed
automatic transmission. A new limited-slip rear differential
was also introduced.
A facelift of the MQ Patrol was launched in 1983, which
featured upgraded front suspension and stylish-for-the-time
rectangular headlights. Importantly, the MQ also scored a five-
speed manual transmission, while the 24-volt electrical system
employed on the SD33 diesel engine version was flicked in favour
of a more traditional (and therefore more compatible with most

accessories) 12-volt electrical system. A turbocharged version of

the SD33 was introduced, making a claimed 81kW and 255Nm,

and owners of this model didn’t go unnoticed thanks to the

massive ‘TURBO’ stickers on the rear panels of the Patrol.

With its choice of bright colours, modern styling, optional fancy

white Sunraysia-style rims and relatively high equipment levels

(AM/FM radio cassette, digital clock, optional air-conditioning,

comprehensive instrument panel), higher-spec versions of the

Patrol became popular with recreational four-wheel drivers,

in both short-wheelbase hardtop and long-wheelbase wagon

variants. However, base-spec models and pick-up/cab-chassis

models still appealed to rural/business buyers.

There were further updates to the MQ Patrol in 1986, with a

more powerful 4.0-litre petrol six and the five-speed gearbox

becoming standard across the range, along with standard

power steering.

Nissan had a strong Patrol line-up in the MQ, with more than

20 variants on offer towards the end of its lifespan, and with

relatively keen pricing, it could take the fight to Toyota’s 40 and

60 Series Land Cruisers. However, the big news for Patrol was

still a year away.

1980 1987

GE
M
Patr
impr
styl

GEN 4:

Y60 (GQ

Fourth-gen Patrol

first with coil-spri

suspension, maki

as comfortable on

as off.

MODELS

MQ Patrol, 1981 update,

1983 update, 1986

update

MODELS

Y60 Patrol, 1990 update,

1992 update, 1995

update

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SSICON

MQ Patrol (second from right) in

an 80s-era 4X4 Australia comparo.

http://www.4X4australia.com.au 83