Nissan
Nissan's affordable RWD coupe (1989-1998). The S13 and S14 chassis became the foundation for grassroots drift culture worldwide.
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.
S13 (1989-1994). First-generation 240SX. Pop-up headlights (in North America). Various trims including the Silvia (sedan/coupe in JDM) and 180SX (hatchback in JDM). The S13 chassis is widely considered the most aggressive of the two.
S14 (1995-1998). Second-generation 240SX. Fixed headlights, more refined styling, larger dimensions. JDM Silvia S14 is highly regarded; the S14 with the SR20DET engine is the most desirable JDM variant.
The S13 and S14 became foundational drift platforms globally. The combination of RWD, light weight, balanced chassis, and abundant aftermarket made the platform ideal for learning drift and for cost-effective competitive drift. The S13 in particular is one of the most modified chassis in tuner history.
S13 and S14 submissions are common, especially with engine swaps (SR20DET, RB-series) and drift-prep modifications. JDM Silvia and 180SX imports appear regularly. The community recognizes the 240SX as the foundation of grassroots drift culture.