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Nissan Silvia

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Nissan Silvia: Nissan's RWD coupe sold globally as Silvia (sedan/coupe), 180SX (hatchback), or 240SX (NA). S13, S14, S15 gene
Photo: Tennen-Gas / Wikimedia Commons · CC BY-SA 3.0

Nissan's RWD coupe sold globally as Silvia (sedan/coupe), 180SX (hatchback), or 240SX (NA). S13, S14, S15 generations.

The Nissan Silvia is a JDM-name rear-wheel drive sport coupe across multiple generations. The Silvia name has been used since 1965 with several generations; the modern era includes S12 (1984-1988), S13 (1988-1994), S14 (1993-1998), and S15 (1999-2002). The S15 was the last and most refined Silvia and is widely considered the apex of the lineage. The Silvia is closely related to the 240SX (North America) and 180SX (JDM hatchback). The chassis is shared; the engine and trim differ by market. JDM Silvia variants typically used the SR20DET turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine (200-250 horsepower depending on year and tune). The KA24DE found in North American 240SX is naturally aspirated and less powerful. The S15 Silvia (1999-2002) is the most refined Silvia generation. Improved chassis, more aggressive styling, and the SR20DET engine in revised form. Manual or automatic transmissions; four-door (Spec-L), two-door (Spec-S, Spec-R), and JDM-only Aero variants. The S15 ended Silvia production globally; the Silvia name has not been revived. Modern Silvia prices have appreciated as the cars age into recognition. JDM imports of S13, S14, and S15 are common under the 25-year rule. The platform remains a foundation of drift culture. On WhipJury, Silvia submissions span all three modern generations. JDM imports are particularly common. Modified examples (with engine swaps, suspension upgrades, drift-prep modifications) reliably do well.

Top Nissan Silvia examples on WhipJury

1999 Nissan Silvia
1999 Nissan Silvia#1
Whip Score: 1204

Silvia generations

S12 (1984-1988). Earlier generation. Less directly related to modern drift culture but influential as foundation chassis.

S13 (1988-1994). Modern era. First-generation Silvia / 180SX. SR20DET option in JDM trim.

S14 (1993-1998). Larger and more refined. SR20DET continued. The connoisseur S14 Silvia (with revised tune and trim) is highly regarded.

S15 (1999-2002). Final and most refined. Improved chassis, more aggressive styling. The S15 is widely considered the best Silvia.

Silvia on WhipJury

S13, S14, and S15 submissions all appear. JDM imports are common. Modified Silvia builds (drift-prep, engine swaps, suspension upgrades) are typical. The platform has strong global enthusiast community.

Frequently asked questions about Nissan Silvia

Is the Silvia the same as the 240SX?
Same chassis, different markets and engines. Silvia is the JDM coupe/sedan name. 240SX is the North American name (with naturally aspirated KA24DE). 180SX is the JDM hatchback variant. All three share the same S-platform chassis. JDM Silvia versions are more powerful (typically SR20DET turbo) than US 240SX (KA24DE NA).
Why was the S15 Silvia not sold in the US?
Nissan chose not to certify the S15 for the North American market. The decision was driven by declining 240SX sales, regulatory complexity, and Nissan strategic shift toward the 350Z (launching 2003) as the brand sport coupe successor. The S15 ended Silvia production globally; the cars can be imported to the US under the 25-year rule starting around 2024.
How much does a Silvia cost?
Pricing varies by generation. S13 Silvia: $15,000-$45,000+. S14 Silvia: $20,000-$50,000+. S15 Silvia: $30,000-$80,000+. Clean low-mile JDM imports are at the higher end. Modified examples vary widely depending on quality of work and condition.
Is the SR20DET reliable?
Generally yes when properly maintained. The SR20DET is a robust engine with good aftermarket support. Common issues include timing chain stretch on higher-mileage examples, turbocharger wear, and various age-related items. Modified SR20DETs (with larger turbos and supporting modifications) are widely capable but require careful tuning.
Will Nissan revive the Silvia?
Periodic rumors but no confirmed announcement. The Silvia name has not been revived since the S15 ended in 2002. Various rumors about a Silvia-style RWD sport coupe have circulated; Nissan has not confirmed plans. The current Z car covers different segments and the GT-R the supercar segment.

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