
Whether we’re watching the big game or browsing the TV to relax after a heartbreaking day, it’s always fun to watch commercials mimicking the latest cars and trucks.
And while most major automakers have created a lot of TV commercials, we remember one in particular: Nissan.
Not so long ago Nissan It was very important. The automaker was a cool alternative to Japanese rivals Toyota and Honda – largely thanks to its smart and memorable TV spots.
Do you want to see why? Let’s examine five of the best examples.
5) “Enjoy Your Driving” 1996
Here, a young boy is the legendary “Mr. K. “But here’s a great Easter Egg: Although played by an actor, Mr. K. is based on the first president of Nissan Motors USA, Yutaka Katayama, and is considered the” Father of Z “. He embodied the spirit of youthful enthusiasm and would become a recurring character throughout the “Enjoy the Ride” campaign.
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4) “The Dreamer” 1990
Do you want to make a good advertisement? Hire Ridley Scott (the man behind Alien, Blade Runner, Gladiator and many other acclaimed movies) for the director. Oh, he’s also arguably the best TV commercial of all time. Apple’s 1984. This ad Nissan 300ZX Twin Turbo falls just like that and could easily be confused with a big budget movie trailer.
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3) “Pigeons” 1997
To be honest, this had us the moment we heard about “Danger Zone”. But add clever call signs like “Dirty Bird” and “Sky Rat” and Nissan reveals one more winner here. Be careful at the end and you will see another Mr. K. miniature.
2) “With my father” 2015
Proving that everything is not for laughter, Nissan made us feel full at this point. Of course, it’s easy to do this when you include Harry Chapin in the mix. Now if you excuse us… we… have something …… inside …… eyes ………
1) “Toys” 1997
Yeah. This is. An absolute clinic on how to market to a maturing demographic. Part nostalgia, part excitement and all completely unforgettable. This point was in the minds of young people who wanted to buy their first car, and perhaps a lot of brand loyalty developed in the process. Van Halen’s “You Really Got Me” album cover just looks like icing on the cake.
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Bonus! Version of Nissan Pathfinder
While many of us remember the 300zx “Toys” section above, did you know there is one more for the Nissan Pathfinder? Fun fact: Mattel actually sued Nissan because he thought the toys used in the advertisements had a striking resemblance to a particular pair of toys he owned.
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So, does that solidify Nissan as the best TV advertiser in the automotive world? Let us know about some of your favorites in the comments below.