Wouldn't it be nice if that were true! Unfortunately, US trademark law says that if a company doesn't defend their trademark against any and all "infringements", they can lose it. And using a logo, color scheme, product name etc. on a model airplane, or anything else that is not specifically licensed by the trademark owner is an infringement.

So the answer is, don't ask, just do it. If you ask, they will have to license you (which will cost both you and Nissan a lot more than either of you will be willing to spend) or turn you down so that they don't risk losing their trademark. On the other hand, if you just do it, and keep a low profile, the chances of them finding out about it and chasing you down will be slim to none.

Just make sure you don't get a picture of your Nissan model in any magazines.

Jim