Nissan 240SX

The Nissan 240SX (sold as Silvia or 180SX in Japan, depending on body style and trim) is a rear-wheel drive sport coupe produced from 1989 to 1998 in North America. The 240SX shared chassis with the JDM Silvia and 180SX, though the engine in North American versions (KA24E inline-four, 140 horsepower naturally aspirated) was less powerful than the JDM SR20DET turbocharged engine in equivalent trim levels. The S13 (1989-1994) and S14 (1995-1998) generations of 240SX both became foundational chassis for grassroots drift culture worldwide. The combination of light weight, RWD layout, balanced chassis, and abundant aftermarket support made the 240SX ideal for learning drift and for low-cost competitive drift. Various engine swaps (SR20DET, KA-T, RB swaps) were common on the platform; the chassis itself is the foundation. The 240SX has appreciated significantly as the cars become recognized future classics. Project cars start around $5,000-$15,000. Driver-quality cars: $15,000-$30,000. Clean low-mile cars: $30,000-$60,000+. JDM-spec Silvia or 180SX imports are at the higher end. The platform remains active in drift competitions and is widely beloved by the global enthusiast community. Production ended in 1998. Nissan replaced the 240SX with the S15 Silvia in JDM markets (not exported to North America); the S15 was the last Silvia generation. Modern Nissan does not produce a direct successor to the 240SX; the Z car (350Z, 370Z, current Z) covers different segments. On WhipJury, 240SX submissions are particularly active among drift enthusiasts. Modified S13 and S14 builds with engine swaps, suspension upgrades, and drift-prep modifications are common. JDM imports of S13 (Sileighty, etc.) and S14 (180SX, Silvia) appear regularly.