Older Nissan models comprise eight of the top 11 theft targets in Victoria, according to the National Motor Vehicle Theft Reduction Council (NMVTRC).

The Nissan Pulsar N15 has been the most popular target for the past five years and theft rates have soared over the past decade. One in every 14 Pulsars was stolen last year in Victoria.

However, 89% of stolen Nissan Pulsars were recovered, with 54% found in the first 72 hours.

One in every 15 Nissan Pulsars in the ACT falls victim.

None of the N15s stolen in Victoria featured factory-fitted immobilisers, making them easy targets, the NMVTRC says. It says owners of pre-2001 cars should have Australian Standard engine immobilisers fitted to reduce the risk of theft.