K13 Nissan March Nismo S: 6 Months Later

We’re heading towards the end of the rainy season here in Thailand. Compared to Northern Thailand, we’re pretty safe from severe floods. But still, neighbourhoods like Bang Na, Chaeng Watthana and Din Daeng made headlines, with knee-high flash floods during peak hours. Gosh, we didn't need that - jams were bad enough!

Terrible weather alone was reason enough to “cold storage” my March. The itch to drive it frequently was hampered by news of cars stuck in the middle of junctions, pistons filled with water. No way am I risking any car in these conditions.

*Pictured above: Central Village on a Sunday, 7am, empty roads, couldn't ask for more. The March has been great during the extremely limited drive time. It’s what I want from a weekend car. Small and compact, short wheelbase, heavy steering due to the rubbers, short gearing and great hugging seats make me crave for more behind-the-wheel time when skies clear up. It took me a good 5 months to “perfect” the seating position - laughable, but it made the experience much more engaging. I sit a bit higher now, elbows not touching seat bolsters when cornering. The worn steering wheel alcantara was an issue though. Had to grip it tighter as it has gotten very smooth.

I’m planning to bring it for a service by the end of this year. It's the same workshop that the previous owner serviced. A good 50km away - let’s hope the journey’s worth it. They seem like true Nismo S specialists, building cars from scratch, from bare chassis. It’s this level of detail that I want when I bring it for a health check.

Looking forward to driving it more, perhaps a quick B road blast by the end of this year. Tyres are holding up well (made in 2023), and while there are knocking noises when I reverse it (likely suspension mounts), stressing it on undulating roads proved a non-issue.

I’m happy to keep it as it is. There are many mods for it, both cosmetic and performance-leaning options. But for now I’ll enjoy the “factory” OEM Autech muffler, until the dreaded rust sets it, fingers crossed. Will be back to document more!