Nissan Civilian RW40 Motorhome – 1991

General Overview

The 1991 Nissan Civilian RW40 Motorhome is a reliable, bus-based motorhome built on Nissan's legendary heavy-duty Civilian platform. Powered by the renowned 4.2L TD42 diesel engine and paired with a manual transmission, it has earned an excellent reputation for durability, simplicity, and dependable touring.

Designed with practicality in mind, this motorhome features a spacious rear U-shaped lounge that converts into a comfortable double bed, a well-equipped central kitchen, and a full bathroom positioned near the entry door. Compact enough to drive on a standard New Zealand Class 1 (car) licence while still offering all the essentials for extended travel, it's an excellent choice for couples wanting an affordable and capable motorhome.

Key Specifications

Make: Nissan

Model: Civilian RW40

Year: 1991

Vehicle Type: Motorhome

Body Style: Self-Propelled Caravan

Colour: Blue

Odometer: 119,648 km

Engine: Nissan TD42 Diesel

Engine Capacity: 4,160cc (4.2L)

Fuel Type: Diesel

Transmission: Manual

Seats: 2

Sleeps: 2

Licence Required: Standard New Zealand Class 1 (Car Licence)

Dimensions

Overall Length: 6.2m

Internal Height: 1.8m

Layout & Interior

Rear Lounge

The rear of the motorhome features a spacious U-shaped lounge, providing a comfortable place to relax, dine, or entertain. In the evening, the lounge easily converts into a generous double bed, creating a practical sleeping area without compromising daytime living space.

Large surrounding windows allow plenty of natural light into the living area, creating a bright and welcoming interior.

Central Kitchen

Positioned in the middle of the motorhome, the kitchen is designed for practical touring and includes:

• Gas cooker

• Fridge

• Sink

• Bench space

• Storage cupboards

Everything is conveniently laid out, making meal preparation easy whether you're travelling or parked for the night.

Bathroom

Located beside the entrance door, the bathroom includes:

• Cassette toilet

• Shower

• Vanity basin

• Storage

The fully enclosed bathroom provides the convenience and privacy needed for comfortable touring.

Features & Equipment

• 200W Solar power system

• Wind-out awning

• Certified self-contained

• Cassette toilet

• Reliable TD42 4.2L diesel engine

• Manual transmission

• Standard Class 1 (car) licence

• Good storage throughout

• Large windows providing excellent natural light

• Practical touring layout

Water & Self-Containment

• Fresh Water Capacity: 100L

• Grey Water Capacity: 100L

• Toilet: 20L Cassette toilet

• Certified Self-Contained

Driving & Practicality

The Nissan TD42 diesel engine is widely regarded as one of the most reliable diesel engines ever produced, making the Civilian a popular choice for long-term touring throughout New Zealand.

Its compact 6.2-metre length makes it easier to drive and park than many larger motorhomes while still providing a spacious and practical interior. Best of all, it can be driven on a standard New Zealand Class 1 (car) licence, making it accessible to a wide range of buyers.

Why You'll Love It

The Nissan Civilian RW40 combines legendary mechanical reliability with a practical touring layout. The spacious rear lounge, onboard bathroom, central kitchen, solar power, and certified self-containment make it ideal for couples wanting to enjoy the freedom of motorhome travel without the complexity of a larger vehicle.

Whether you're planning weekend escapes or extended adventures around New Zealand, this Civilian is a dependable and comfortable companion that's built to go the distance.