Nissan Silvia
| Nissan Silvia | |
|---|---|
| Overview | |
| Production |
1964–1968 1974–2002 |
| Assembly | Iwaki, Fukushima, Japan |
| Body and chassis | |
| Class | Sports car |
| Layout | FR layout |
The Nissan Silvia is the name given to the company's long-running line of sport coupes based on the Nissan S platform. Although recent models have shared this chassis with other vehicles produced by Nissan (most notably the European 200SX and North American 240SX in the S13 and S14 generations, and 180SX in the Japanese market), the name Silvia is not interchangeable with the chassis codes.
The original Silvia
| CSP311 | |
|---|---|
 | |
| Overview | |
| Also called | Datsun 1600 Coupe[1] |
| Production |
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| Body and chassis | |
| Body style | 2-door coupe |
| Platform | Datsun CSP311 platform |
| Related | Datsun Fairlady SP311 |
| Powertrain | |
| Engine | 1.6 L R I4 |
| Transmission | 4-speed manual |
| Dimensions | |
| Wheelbase | 2,280 mm (89.8 in) |
| Length | 3,985 mm (156.9 in) |
| Width | 1,508 mm (59.4 in) |
| Height | 1,275 mm (50.2 in) |
| Curb weight | 977 kg (2,154 lb) |
The Nissan Silvia CSP311 made its public debut at the Tokyo Motor Show in September 1964 as the "Datsun Coupe 1500". The introductory model was a hand-built coupe based on the Fairlady convertible, styled with input from Count Albrecht Goertz. The CSP311 was powered by the 96 hp 1.6 L Nissan R series engine. The engine was equipped with twin SU carburetors. Production ceased in 1968 after a mere 554 were made (mainly in 1965), every one unique with hand-formed body panels. Most of the cars remained in Japan; however, 49 examples were exported to Australia and another 10 went to other countries. The low production numbers and tedious method of construction assured each car was unique and valuable; this is reflected by the car's purchase price of almost twice as much as the next model in the manufacturer's lineup at the time. After production ceased in 1968, the name Silvia would not grace another Nissan until 1974. Its marketing approach was similar to the Isuzu 117 Coupé.
S10
| S10 | |
|---|---|
 | |
| Overview | |
| Also called |
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| Production | 1975–1979 |
| Body and chassis | |
| Body style | 2-door fastback |
| Platform | Nissan S platform |
| Related | Nissan Sunny |
| Powertrain | |
| Engine |
|
| Transmission | |
| Dimensions | |
| Wheelbase | 2,340 mm (92.1 in) |
| Length | 4,135 mm (162.8 in) |
| Width | 1,600 mm (63.0 in) |
| Height | 1,300 mm (51.2 in) |
| Curb weight | 990 kg (2,180 lb) |
The S10 was the first mass-produced Silvia built on the S platform. This was "Nissan's compact, rear-wheel-drive, sporty car platform".[2] Japanese versions were exclusive to Nissan Japanese dealerships called Nissan Prince Store along with the larger Skyline.
The S10 featured less "traditional" lines than similar offerings from rivals Toyota and Mazda and was summarily less popular with consumers in most markets. In Japan it was fitted with an L18 I4 engine, which it shared with the Datsun 610/Bluebird 180B. The Japanese version introduced Nissan NAPS emission control technology at its introduction. In the North American market a version incorporating the larger-displacement L20B was offered as the 200B of the same series Bluebird and Skyline. This model in North America was affixed with the mandated 5 mph (8.0 km/h) bumpers and badged as the Datsun 200SX. The S10 Silvia and Datsun 200SX were based on the Datsun B210. Its success in both markets was limited, most buyers opting for the Celica over what was considered the more mundane S-Chassis. The car had the same drivetrain as the cult-classic 510, but with cart springs in the rear rather than the 510's independent rear suspension. Its appearance seems to be influenced by the 1970–1975 Citroën SM.
S110
| S110 | |
|---|---|
 | |
| Overview | |
| Also called |
|
| Production | 1979–1983 |
| Body and chassis | |
| Body style |
|
| Platform | Nissan S platform |
| Related | Nissan Stanza |
| Powertrain | |
| Engine |
|
| Transmission |
|
| Dimensions | |
| Wheelbase | 2,400 mm (94.5 in) |
| Length | 4,400 mm (173.2 in) |
| Width | 1,680 mm (66.1 in) |
| Height | 1,310 mm (51.6 in) |
| Curb weight | 1,105 kg (2,436 lb) |
This iteration of the Silvia (sold in United States and Canada as the Datsun 200SX and in Mexico as the Datsun Sakura), available as a 2-door hardtop coupe and a new bodystyle 3-door hatchback. The Japanese market version of the hatchback was called the Gazelle and was exclusive to Nissan Bluebird Store locations sold alongside the Fairlady Z, while the coupe bodystyle Silvia remained exclusive to Nissan Prince Store locations alongside the Skyline. Its sharp-edged styling was shared with the new Nissan Leopard sedan and coupe, also exclusive to Nissan Bluebird Store.
This generation Silvia was uniquely progressive in that it was originally intended to feature a rotary engine, designed and built by Nissan. The resulting unit was fairly unreliable, and forestalled production. Coincidentally, it shared a chassis code with the also ill-fated Mazda Cosmo, first Japanese production car to feature a rotary engine. The chassis was no longer shared with the B-series Nissan Sunny, and was upgraded to the larger A-series Nissan Stanza platform.
The car was redesigned shortly after it was released and the Wankel power plant was replaced by a line of conventional piston engines based on the new Z-series engine. These included the Z20 and the turbocharged and fuel-injected Z18ET, although the latter of the two was only available to the Japanese domestic market. In USA/Canada the 200SX had the Z20E with H165 rear axle from 1979 to 1981. From 1982 to 1983, it had a Z22E engine with H190 rear axle. Vehicles with engines under 2000cc are still considered "compact" vehicles under Japanese regulations regarding engine size.
Gazelle
Nissan rebadged the Silvia as the Gazelle coupé and hatchback so that Nissan's different dealership networks in Japan could all carry their own variants of the model. There are minor cosmetic differences between the two cars,
240RS
This generation saw the introduction of the Nissan 240RS (BS110), a coupe fitted with the 2.4-liter DOHC FJ24 engine. The 240RS was built between 1983 and 1985, its production extending the end of the S110 itself. The resulting machine became Nissan's official rally car in the World Rally Championship from 1983 to 1985, and finished 2nd in the 1983 New Zealand Rally.
S12
| S12 | |
|---|---|
 S12 "200SX" (Mark I) | |
| Overview | |
| Also called |
|
| Production | 1984-1988 |
| Body and chassis | |
| Body style |
|
| Layout | FR layout |
| Platform | Nissan S platform |
| Related | Nissan Stanza |
| Powertrain | |
| Engine | |
| Transmission |
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| Dimensions | |
| Wheelbase | 2,425 mm (95.5 in) |
| Length |
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| Width |
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| Height |
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| Curb weight | 1,170 kg (2,580 lb) |
The S12 was produced from 1984 to 1988, with revisions to the exterior trim in 1987 (referred to as "Mark II"). It was sold in two configurations—a coupe (often called a "notchback" due to the side profile view of its rear window section) and a hatchback version.
A number of different engines were equipped in the S12 chassis, depending on production year and more specifically on the geographic market. These engines borrowed from previous designs, or in some cases, inspired future engine platforms (with the exception of the FJ series, which was designed solely with Rally competition in mind). For instance, the CA series initially borrowed design cues from the NAP-Z series. The CA18DET's DOHC head design was similar to that utilized in the later "RB" engine series, the inline-six engine that powered the Skyline GT-Rs. Certain trims had the S12 equipped with an optional V6 engine also shared by the 300ZX (Z31) of the same vintage; this engine would be augmented with dual cam heads for the Z32.
North America
The S12 chassis in North America was badged as a "200SX". The Coupe was available with a 2.0L SOHC engine (CA20E), while the hatchback received both the 2.0L SOHC engine, and a 1.8L SOHC Turbo (non-intercooled) engine (CA18ET). For 1987 in the United States, Nissan discontinued the Turbo model and created the "SE" model which had a 3.0L SOHC V6 engine (VG30E), generating 160 hp (120 kW) and 174 lbf·ft (236 N·m) of torque. This was the same engine offered in the non-turbo 300ZX for that generation. For 1988 the "SE" model received a 5 hp (3.7 kW) gain from using the later "W" series revisions of the VG30E with a total output of 165 hp (123 kW) while torque remained the same at 174 lbf·ft (236 N·m).
Europe
The S12 chassis in Europe was badged as a "Silvia", with notable exception of Sweden where it was sold as a "180ZX". This is a curiosity because "ZX" is traditionally associated with the Nissan Z platform. The European S12 was available only in the hatchback configuration, with the same 1.8L SOHC Turbo (CA18ET) used in North America, and in some areas the 2.0L DOHC "FJ" engine (FJ20E). The "FJ" engine series was originally designed for the 240RS rally race car as a 2.4L carburated system (FJ24), and was underbored to 2.0L. It also saw use in the "DR30" Nissan Skyline chassis, in both turbocharged and naturally aspirated versions.
Australia
The S12 chassis in Australia was badged as a Gazelle. The Australian Gazelle was available in both the coupé and hatchback. Trim levels comprised the GL (basic) and the luxury-oriented SGL with electric mirrors and windows. It was equipped with the same 2.0-liter SOHC (CA20E) engine found elsewhere producing 78 kW at 5,200 rpm, and 160 Nm of torque at 3,200 rpm. This engine was mated to either a five-speed manual gearbox or a four-speed automatic. This has made the S12 Gazelle very popular for engine conversions among motoring enthusiasts, as a sports coupé the CA20E was not quite powerful enough, as were the brakes (front disks were very small, rear drum brakes standard). the CA18DE/T, being a direct bolt in replacement for the CA20E, is quite popular and requires no modification to the drive train other than the engine itself.
When the S13 Silvia was introduced in 1988, the Gazelle nameplate was discontinued. The Nissan 180SX took its place in Japan, although in Australia there would not be a replacement until the introduction of the Silvia-based Nissan 200SX in 1995.
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_GL_hatchback_02.jpg)
Japan
As with the S110, the S12 chassis in Japan was badged as both a Silvia and a Gazelle. The S12 Silvia in Japan was available in a hatchback as a basic model only, or as a coupé in base, RS, and RS-X trims. The S12 Gazelle was strictly a hatchback, available in regular, RS and RS-X variants. The RS was equipped with the 2.0L DOHC "FJ" engine (FJ20E), while the RS-X was equipped with the same engine in a turbocharged version (FJ20ET). In 1987 Nissan discontinued the FJ Series engine in the S12 and installed the updated version of the older CA, with dual cams and a bigger turbocharger—the CA18DET.
Japanese spec Gazelle models came with many options like voice command, fog lights and options for a variety of different motors (FJ20E, FJ20ET, CA18DE, CA18E, CA18DET.). The RS-X model also came with different factory alloy wheels.
Revisions
The S12 chassis in 1984-86 is referred to as "Mark I", with "Mark II" as a revision in '87. Below lists the description of both.
Mark I
The first trim of the S12 chassis. Bumpers featured matte-finish raised surfaces, and sides featured half-inch rubstripping. Cars featured a honeycomb radiator grille, and long corner lights. The RS-X trim in Japan and Europe received a hood bulge accent to accommodate the oversized dimensions of the FJ20E/ET engine, and featured a faux front vent with monogram (either FJ20, DOHC, or TURBO); In North America, the 1984 Turbo came with a "TURBO" monogrammed hood bulge accent, although all subsequent North American Mark I hoods were flat regardless of trim. In some markets, the 1984 and 85 could be had with a foam rubber deck spoiler. In 1986 the foam rubber deck spoiler was changed for a fiberglass version with an integrated third brake light. Some hatchbacks and all Turbo models came with ground effects, as did the RS-X coupes These had a combination of plastic mudflaps (monogrammed as either "NISSAN", or "SILVIA" in applicable markets) and accommodating foam rubber sideskirts, as well as a foam rubber lower deflection lip. 1984 year foam rubber sideskirts featured the "NISSAN" monogram.
Mark II
In 1987, the bumpers were updated, and the matte finished surfaces were eliminated for a more uniform surface. Rubstripping was increased to 2-inch height w/ scribe detailing. The honeycomb radiator grille was replaced with a slatted version that spanned the entire front end (previous was shorter), and cornerlights were shortened. The "SE" model and the Turbo (Canada, Europe) came with new fiberglass ground effects and mudflaps, painted in the color of the car, and a new and more pronounced lower deflection lip in the front. All Mark II S12's received a new reverse-cowl hood bulge design to accommodate clearance for the 3.0L V6. Optional rear mudflap accents were available.
Drivetrain
Engine
| CA18ET | CA18DET | CA20E | FJ20E | FJ20ET | VG30E | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Aspiration | Single turbo | Single turbo | Natural | Natural | Single turbo | Natural | |||
| Valvetrain | SOHC 8-valve | DOHC 16-valve | SOHC 8-valve | DOHC 16-valve | DOHC 16-valve | SOHC 12-valve | |||
| Cylinders | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 6 | |||
| Displacement | 1809cc/1794cc | 1809cc | 1974cc | 1990cc | 1990cc | 2960cc | |||
| Max Power | 120 hp @ 5200 rpm /122 hp catalyst and 2 spark per cylinder (European version) | 169 hp @ 6400 rpm | 102 hp @ 5200 rpm | 148 hp @ 6400 rpm | 188 hp @ 6500 rpm | 160 hp @ 5200 rpm (1987) 165 hp @ 5200 rpm (1988) | |||
| Max Torque | 134ftlb (181.7Nm) @ 3200 rpm | 156ftlb (211.6Nm) @ 4000 rpm | 116ftlb (157.3Nm) @ 3200 rpm | 136ftlb (184.4Nm) @ 4800 rpm | 173ftlb (234.6Nm) @ 4800 rpm | 174ftlb (235.9Nm) @ 4000 rpm | |||
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive | ||||||||
| Transmission | 4-speed automatic / 5-speed manual | ||||||||
Drivetrain variations
| Code Name | H190 | R180 | R200 |
| Style | Solid Axle | Independent | Independent |
| Years | 1983-1984 | 1985-1988 | 1984-1988 |
| Engines | CA20E | CA20E | CA18ET
CA18DET VG30E FJ20E FJ20ET |
| Ring Gear Size | 7.5" | 7.0" | 8.0" |
| Limited Slip | No | No | No (Most)
Yes (Some FJ20ET models) |
| Ratio | 4.11:1 & 3.90:1 (Auto & manual) | 4.11:1 | 4.11:1 & 3.90:1(VG30E models only) |
Special Editions
The widebody exterior grabs design cues from popular European rally car platforms of the time (e.g. Audi Quattro, BMW M3 Sport Evolution, Renault 5 Turbo 2, etc.), although Nissan's choice of the FJ20E over the FJ20ET suggests this was more of a "rally inspired" car rather than a serious performance trim. The Silvia Grand Prix holds the distinction as the rarest incarnation of the S12, and is generally considered something of a collector's item. The Mark II revision of the S12 chassis marked the end of the Silvia Grand Prix.
Motorsports
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The elimination of Group B from the World Rally Championship signified the end of Nissan's FJ24-powered 240RS. The FJ20ET-powered Silvia RS-X of 1986 would have been Nissan's first choice, however there was an insufficient number of that exact trim sold in Japan to meet the WRC's Homologation requirements (5,000 units or greater). Nissan had to quickly find a car to replace the 240RS.
The North American 1987 200SX SE V6 was chosen and competed in 1986-89 as a 200SX. Nissan's creation and choice of this car ensured they could sell 5000 cars required for WRC Homologation. The S12 "SE" trim's V6 held particular appeal to the North American market, allowing Nissan to sell well over 5000 cars to a single specification. The V6 was a very unusual choice as the WRC was dominated by 4-cylinder 2.0 L turbocharged engines, although it is interesting to note that for similar reasons Toyota entered WRC with the 6-cylinder Supra at the same time. The 200SX achieved a 1st place in the 1988 Ivory coast rally and 2nd place for two years running in the very challenging Safari Rally 1988 and Safari Rally 1989.
S13
| S13 | |
|---|---|
 | |
| Overview | |
| Production | 1989–1994 |
| Body and chassis | |
| Body style |
2-door coupe 2-door convertible |
| Platform | Nissan S platform |
| Related |
Nissan 180SX Nissan 200SX (Europe) Nissan 240SX (North America) Sileighty |
| Powertrain | |
| Engine | |
| Transmission |
4-speed automatic 5-speed manual |
| Dimensions | |
| Wheelbase | 2474 mm (97.4 in) |
| Length | 4521 mm (178 in) |
| Width | 1689 mm (66.5 in) |
| Height | 1290 mm (50.8 in) |
| Curb weight | 1224 kg (2700 lb) |
The S13 Silvia, introduced in mid-1988 the 1989 model year, was immensely popular in Japan. At its introduction in 1988, it won the Car of the Year Japan Award. The Silvia name was no longer used on export models, however; European models were now known as 200SX. In North America, the S13 was known as the 240SX. The Nissan 200SX nameplate would return on a 3 door hatchback version of the B14 Nissan Sentra (1995–99). The S13 was based on the first generation Nissan Cefiro, the A31. Following industry trends, the S13 Silvia switched to relampable fixed headlights. Projector optics were offered as an option.
The S13 Silvia coupe was made from 1988 to 1994, overlapping with the S14 Silvia introduced in 1993. The Nissan Silvia used fixed headlights; whereas, the 180SX, simply a hatchback version of the Silvia, introduced at the same time used pop-up headlights. The hatchback version, called the 180SX, was no longer offered in Japan, but remained in production internationally until 1995. A Silvia convertible was briefly offered soon after the start of production, but it was never popular, perhaps due to high cost (3.25 million Yen in 1988), heavier curb weight, and chassis flex.
The S13 was one of the first uses of Nissan's multi-link rear suspension, the technology of which was previewed in concept cars in previous years, such as the Nissan MID4. It also offered a four-wheel steering system for the first time, known as HICAS-II. In 1990, HICAS-II was updated and renamed SuperHICAS. The S13 also saw the introduction of a viscous-type limited slip differential for some models.
S13 Silvias were initially powered by the CA18DE and CA18DET engines carried over from the end of S12 production, with an intercooler added to the CA18DET for a slight increase in stability and power. In mid-1990, (for the 1991 model year) the SR20DE and SR20DET engines debuted, offering improvements across the board in power and torque due to increased displacement and a more efficient turbocharger than was offered on the previous cars. One of the other simple changes that was made between the CA generation and the SR generation was the switch to a single colour paint job, instead of the two-tone colour sets that were previously offered. On top of this, the SR motor later debuted another variant of the platform known simply as the "black top". Identifiable by its black and silver rocker-cover (as opposed to the traditional red/silver cover), it featured a number of minor changes, resulting in little performance gain. It is vastly different from the more powerful "notch top" used in the S14 and S15 variants.
In the U.S. the S13 was replaced after the 1994 model year by the new S14 design, but lived on till 1999 in Japan with a major face lift, the 180SX Aero (Type X). this was the "Kouki" generation, while the previous was "Chuki" gen. The Kouki featured newly design tail lights a redesigned aero body kit and out fitted with an airbag . In 1998, the S13 Silvia was resurrected, in part. A variant was produced by Kid's Heart for Nissan called the Sileighty, which featured the 180SX body with the front end from the Silvia. The Sileighty style was originally created by Japanese enthusiasts for their own 180SX's, and is still a common modification for the 180SX and 240SX fastback. The Sileighty also made an appearance in a Japanese anime and manga series known as Initial D. The series (based around the Japanese motor sports of Touge and drifting) featured the Sileighty in one of the last battles of the First Stage (or first season in the anime).
The creation of the Sileighty then followed by another version of the Silvia known as the Onevia. Based on the chassis of the S13, the front end of the Silvia would be removed and replaced with the front end of a 180SX. The Onevia was never retailed as a complete car in Japan (though it was in North America: the notchback version of the 240SX was essentially a left hand drive version of the Silvia with the 180SX/240SX nose).
There was also a retro-styled car (á la the Zimmer Golden Spirit) which used the S13 Silvia's centre portion, engine, and underpinnings. It is called the Mitsuoka Le-Seyde and was built in a very limited series in 1990.
Trim level designation
The S13 Silvia was the first S-series car to use the J's, Q's, and K's designations for the different trim packages. These names are references to the face cards of English playing cards.
The J's was the base model . The Q's model offered a slightly more refined experience and received electric options and an available LSD. The K's grade received the turbocharged CA18DET or SR20DET (depending on the year of manufacture) in addition to the options offered on the Q's.
On top of the K's and Q's models, the Club and Diamond Selection packages came with specific options bundled together. For example, all K's Club Selections came with projector headlamps, a rear spoiler, and 15" aluminum wheels while all Q's models came out with automatic climate control.
The Silvia A's "Almighty" was introduced in late 1992. Trim wise, the Almighty slotted between the J's and Q's, offering options not available on J's, but not including all the standard features of the Q's. The only available engine/transmission was the naturally aspirated SR20DE coupled with the four-speed automatic or a five-speed manual.
S14
| S14 | |
|---|---|
 | |
| Overview | |
| Also called |
|
| Production |
|
| Body and chassis | |
| Body style | 2-door coupe |
| Platform | Nissan S platform |
| Powertrain | |
| Engine |
|
| Transmission | |
| Dimensions | |
| Wheelbase | 2525 mm (99.4 in) |
| Length | 4498 mm (177.0 in) |
| Width | 1727 mm (68.0 in) |
| Height | 1288 mm (50.7 in) |
| Curb weight | 1253 kg (2762 lb) |
The S14 Silvia debuted in Japan towards the end of 1993. It was lower and wider than the S13. New rounded styling contributed to the illusion of a greater increase in size than actually occurred. Wheelbase and track were both increased, leading to slightly improved handling. Unlike export markets, where sales of the S14 chassis variants faltered, the Silvia remained popular in Japan. However, the width dimension exceeded 1700mm, which pushed this generation out of the compact class tax bracket, which made Japanese buyers liable for additional yearly taxes.
Trim level designations were similar to the S13, however the Club Selection package was dropped. "Aero" variants of the Q's and K's were offered that featured large rear wings and mild ground effects.
The S14 Silvia K's received a new version of the SR20DET, with a slight bump in power due to the implementation of Nissan's variable cam timing system known as N-VCT, on the intake cam, and a larger T28 turbocharger.
There was a mild styling update to the S14 during 1996, which added aggressive-looking projector headlamps and tinted taillights to all models. Fascias and other exterior trim pieces were also revised. The turbocharger now used a more efficient ball bearing center section. This updated version is also known as the kouki (後期, literally "later period") S14, or by enthusiasts as the S14A. A similar car was sold as the second generation 240SX in the United States from 1995 to 1998. The final model year of S14 production in all markets was 2000, called the Touring Model, which had a better engine, pistons and a high throttle on lower gears.
The S14 was sold in Taiwan as the AREX Elite 901.
270R
The Nismo 270R was a limited edition vehicle developed by Nissan Motorsports. The vehicle was built on the S14 chassis but had many enhancements over the Silvia. Only fifty 270Rs were ever built and they were only produced in 1994. The '270' is in reference to the horsepower of the unique car as opposed to the displacement of the engine (as other vehicles, including the 240sx, were previously named upon). The 270R featured a vented hood, Nismo 'Edge' Aero kit, heavy duty clutch, 2-way limited slip differential, and a front mount intercooler, NISMO logo front and rear seats among other upgrades. All the 270s were painted black with 'Nismo 270R' badging above the rear wheels and a product numbered plaque in the glove compartment.
Autech Version K's MF-T
Tuning company Autech, has a tuned adaption of the CS14 King's variant. This includes Aero style HUD with white displays and gauges for oil pressure, boost, and voltage in the centre console, along with a MOMO steering wheel and leather gear knob. The interior trim is also revised.
Handling improvements include multi-link suspension, firmer shocks and springs, front strut brace, and a rear sway bar. A large F40 style rear spoiler and aero bodykit with Autech indicators are also fitted. An "Autech Version K's MF-T" badge and sticker can be found on the boot.
An IHI ball bearing turbo (VN14) was fitted in favour of the Garrett T28 for slightly quicker response and flow. Larger 480 cc Injectors found in the later S15 Spec R's were also fitted as well as a thicker 80 mm intercooler also found in S15's. To help expel exhaust, a higher flowing Fujitsubo Giken (FGK) exhaust was fitted.
The engine is an Autech-tuned SR20DET that produces 182kW (245hp/250PS).
According to the Autech website, the vehicle is still available at a cost of ¥2.99 million yen (US$26,875).
S15
| Nissan Silvia (S15) | |
|---|---|
 | |
| Overview | |
| Also called |
|
| Production | 1999–2002 |
| Body and chassis | |
| Body style |
|
| Layout | FR layout |
| Platform | Nissan S platform |
| Powertrain | |
| Engine |
|
| Transmission |
|
| Dimensions | |
| Wheelbase | 2,525 mm (99 in) |
| Length | 4,445 mm (175 in) |
| Width | 1,695 mm (67 in) |
| Height | 1,285 mm (51 in) |
| Curb weight | 1,200–1,450 kg (2,646–3,197 lb) |
| Chronology | |
| Successor | None |
Japan saw a new version of the Silvia (S15) in 1999, now boasting 250 hp (184 kW) from its SR20DET engine, thanks to a ball-bearing turbocharger upgrade, as well as improved engine management. The SR20DE (non-turbo motor) featured 165 hp (121 kW).
The S15 Silvia included aggressive styling inside and out, updating the previous Silvia styling in-line with modern car design trends. The body dimensions were reduced from the previous generation so that it would comply with Japanese Government compact class, which had an effect on sales of the previous model.
The S15 Silvia model lineup was initially simplified to just the Spec-S and Spec-R, both models offering an "Aero" variant with a large rear wing and side skirts/valances.
This generation of the Silvia was only sold in Japan, Australia and New Zealand but was available as a grey import in most other countries. In Australia and New Zealand the car was sold as the Nissan 200SX.
Within the Australian domestic market (AUDM), the S15 sold in 2 trim levels as noted above; Spec-S and Spec-R - however both models featured the SR20DET motor, albeit slightly detuned from the JDM spec cars. Nissan S15s were never officially sold with the naturally aspirated SR20DE engine in Australia or New Zealand. These two models were available at Nissan showrooms until the Nissan 200SX GT was introduced in 2002, the last year of production for the S15. Main differences here were namely the wheels being finished in a silver shadow chrome and updated larger rear wing.
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New Zealand S15 200SX
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Nissan Silvia Varietta
The S15 was sold in Taiwan as the AREX Elite 951.
As of August 2002, Nissan stopped producing the S platform with the S15-series Nissan Silvia being the final variant. Production of the Silvia amidst Nissan's efforts to reduce its myriad of platforms. The S15 Silvia was therefore the last car to hold the Silvia badge. Nissan's worldwide sports car platform is now the FM platform, which underpins the current Fairlady Z (the 350/370Z outside Japan), as well as the 2001–present Nissan Skyline (the Infiniti G35/37 in North America).
Variants
Spec-R
The Spec-R differed from previous Silvia models by featuring a 6-speed manual transmission. The Spec-R also included extensive chassis and suspension strengthening via the use of larger anti-roll bars and strut bracing. The S15 featured the same 4-piston front brake calipers that were found in the S14 but included a larger brake booster.
One of the biggest changes to the S15 model of the Silvia fitted with the 6-speed manual transmission was the implementation of a helical limited slip differential. The result was a safer, more track suited drive; in some contrast to its drifting heritage and subsequent media attention. All other versions of the Silvia (S14, S15 Spec S JDM) came with the viscous limited slip differential.
As with many Nissans, HICAS (High Capacity Active Steering) four-wheel steering was available as an option.
Spec-S
The Spec-S featured only a 5-speed manual transmission (in addition to a 4-speed automatic available on both the Spec-S and the Spec-R). It also lacked the additional chassis support of the Spec-R; featured 4-piston front brake caliper and a slightly smaller brake booster. The Spec-S also only featured open differential. Note that Australian delivered Spec-S models featured the same helical differential, chassis bracing and 6sp manual transmission as the Australian delivered Spec-R models.[3]
The S15 line was later expanded to include various luxury and upgrade option packages for both the Spec-S and Spec-R. Autech, a specialty car developer, also offered several tuned versions of the S15; one with body and interior trim modeled after the Ferrari 456, called the style-A, available in both Spec-S and Spec-R based trims; and a second tuned version was based on the Spec-S trim level with the engine output increased to 200 hp (150 kW) through the use of increased compression, more aggressive camshafts, and free-breathing intake and exhaust tracts, along with ECU tuning and upgrades to the chassis and suspension. This version also included the 6-speed transmission and other upgrades normally found only in the Spec-R.
Silvia Varietta
Nissan offered in Japan a retractable hardtop variant of the Silvia, called the Varietta. The Varietta was built by Autech and was based on the Spec-S model, featuring the same naturally aspirated engine, with a choice of the 5-speed manual transmission or the 4-speed automatic transmission.
Motorsports
The S-series is a popular drift car, especially the S13 through S15 vehicles. The car has enjoyed success in the sport, having won 7 D1 Grand Prix championships with 5 different drivers driving the S15 (Nobuteru Taniguchi:2001; Ryuji Miki:2004; Yasuyuki Kazama:2005; Masato Kawabata:2007; Youichi Imamura:2009,2010,2011)
Silvias have been raced successfully in the All-Japan Grand Touring Car Championship (now Super GT) and its predecessors. In the late Eighties, when Group B was banned, S110 and S12 Silvias also saw limited success in rallying, mainly on endurance rallies. During the S13's production, there was a one-make series in Japan. The S13s were also successful in racing in the IMSA GTU class during the early 1990s.
References
- ↑ Australian Motor Manual's 1967 Road Test Annual, page 40
- ↑ "Nissan Silvia". Automotive Engineering International (Society of Automotive Engineers) 107: 23. 1999.
- ↑ "Nissan Factory Service Manual - Free Nissan FSM". Guapro Media. Retrieved 2012-07-30.
External links
 |
Wikimedia Commons has media related to Nissan Silvia. |
- SXOC UK 200sx owners club
- Nissan Silvia S15—Archive of Nissan's official site for the S15 Silvia. (Japanese)
- Club-S12.org - International Nissan Silvia/Gazelle/200SX S12 Site - International Nissan S12 Chassis specific site.
- Nissan Silvia—Australian Nissan Silvia Club.
- SilviaWA - Nissan Silvia Car Club of Western Australia
- Zilvia - S chassis and Z chassis owners
- History of the Silvia Autospeed Magazine (note: some technical inaccuracies and minor nomenclature errors)
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| City car | Pixo | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Supermini | Micra K10 | Micra K11 | Micra K12 | Micra K13 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Small family car | Cherry N10 | Cherry N12 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Sunny B310 | Sunny B11 | Sunny N13 | Sunny N14 | Almera N15 | Almera N16 | Tiida C11 | Leaf | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Large family car | Stanza T11 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Bluebird 910 | Bluebird U11 | Bluebird T12/T72 | Primera P10 | Primera P11 | Primera P12 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Executive car | Laurel C31 | Laurel C32 | Maxima J30 | Maxima QX A32 | Maxima QX A33 | Teana J31 | Teana J32 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Coupé | Silvia S110 | Silvia S12 | 200SX S13 | 200SX S14 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Sports car | 280ZX | 300ZX Z31 | 300ZX Z32 | 350Z Z33 | 370Z | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| GT-R R35 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Mini MPV | Note | Note | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Compact MPV | Prairie M10 | Prairie M11 | Almera Tino | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Large MPV | Serena C23 | Serena C24 | Serena C25 | Serena C26 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Mini SUV | Juke | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Crossover | Qashqai | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Qashqai+2 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Compact SUV | X-Trail T30 | X-Trail T31 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Terrano II | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Mid-size SUV | Murano Z50 | Murano Z51 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Terrano WD21 | Pathfinder R50 | Pathfinder R51 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Full-size SUV | Patrol 160 | Patrol Y60 | Patrol Y61 | Patrol Y62 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
