Paddock walk at the Autosport International show at the NEC, showing some great cars, from F1 to Drift and Sport cars.
GT race cars at the Autosport International show at the NEC.
Aston Martin, Bentley, Nissan GTR, McLaren Radical to name a few.
Nissan GTR’s at the Autosport International show at the NEC.
So why have I included the Datsun 510 into my site? It’s not a supercar by any means, however, it did have some success in rallying and was competitive in the Trans Am series under 2000cc class. It doesn’t look particularly nice in standard form, however, once modified, this boxy little car looks rather sweet.
The =&0=& was a series of the Datsun Bluebird sold from 1968 to 1974, and offered outside the U.S. and Canada as the =&1=&. According to AutoWeek’s G.D. Levy, the 510 has often been called the “poor man’s BMW.” The 510’s engineering was inspired by contemporary European sedans, particularly the 1966 BMW 1600-2, incorporating a SOHC engine, MacPherson strut suspension in front and independent, semi-trailing arms in the back. The European-influenced sheet metal design is attributed to Datsun in-house designer, Teruo Uchino.
The engine was pushed through by Nissan USA president Yutaka Katayama, a design developed through Prince, an acquisition, with some Mercedes Benz influence.
Launched in August 1968, it was one of the most comprehensive Bluebird ranges in terms of body styles: a two-door sedan, a four-door sedan, a five-door station wagon, and a two-door coupé (added in November 1968).
This range became famous for Nissan’s rallying successes outside Japan and paved the way for greater Nissan sales internationally.
The Datsun 510 released to the U.S. market came originally with the Hitachi downdraft carbureted 1.6L L-series I4 engine, with an advertised gross power of 96 hp, a claimed top speed of 100 mph, front disc brakes, four-wheel independent suspension (MacPherson strut front and semi trailing arm rear-wagons had a solid rear live axle and leaf springs in back), rear-wheel drive, and either a four-speed manual or a three-speed automatic transmission. Two-door sedan, four-door sedan, and four-door station wagon variants were available. It achieved 20 to 30 mpg in factory trim (U.S.). JDM spec models were also available in a two-door coupe body style in either a 1.6L or a 1.8L (1973) L-Series engine. 510s, in some markets, offered twin Hitachi side-draft carburetors, which were a smaller version of the British SU (Skinner’s Union) design used on Jaguars and MG.. These engines also used enhanced compression and camshaft profiles to produce more power. SSS models (not available for the U.S. 510) offered upgraded instrumentation and interior trim, as well as appropriate exterior badges. All U.S. model 510s received anti-sun glass from 1970 on.
Affordable performance combined with simple and reliable mechanicals has helped the Datsun 510 remain a popular automotive enthusiast’s car for nearly 40 years. Avid collectors can be found around the world with significant numbers in the U.S., Australia, and New Zealand.
One advantage of the early Datsun cars is that many of the parts were interchangeable — engines, transmissions, and suspension setups, for example, were all similar enough to swap with minor modifications. This allowed the Datsun 510 to be easily upgraded from the 1.6l – L16 engine, to the 1.8l – L18 engine, and later to the 2.0L L20B engine, and to go from the four-speed manual transmission to the 63 mm (shaft-center distance) five-speed transmissions made available for the early (S10) 200SX and (A10) HL510, and the 71 mm five-speed transmissions used in the (S30 & S130) 280-series Z cars, 1980 to ’83 (S110) 200SX, the 1977 to ’80 (810) 810, the 1981 to ’84 (910) 810/Maxima/Bluebird, and the C210/R30 series of Skylines. The 71 mm five-speed transmissions also saw extensive use in the 620/720/D21 series pick-up trucks in both long and short (rare) extension-housing versions.
Its positive reputation also led to Nissan re-using the 510 model name later on for the unrelated, 1978–1981 Nissan Stanza ‘A10’ in an effort to capture this range’s glory, an effort reviewers thought was a failure.
Variations
The P510 (RHD) and PL510 (LHD) were the most prevalent models in most markets, including the U.S. The 1969 KP510T two-door coupe version arrived in small numbers to right-hand-drive markets, predominantly Japan’s domestic market, unsaddled by engine emission regulations. The ‘K’ prefix cars had a coupe-style swept roofline and shorter deck lid while wagons got a ‘W’ prefix. In the U.S., the 1968 510 two-door sedan saw a limited introduction in April, resulting in it being the rarest U.S. 510-year/model. The two-door sedan body style became popular and was imported into the U.S. in large numbers for the next 5 model years. For the 1973 U.S. model year, the 510 four-door sedan was dropped in favor of the 1973 P610 series cars. Around the world, the J series pushrod-engined model was most common.
1968
Australian versions of the Datsun 1600 were delivered either as a full import (1967 and early 1969), or assembled in Australia from local and Japanese parts. These 510 Datsuns were equipped with =&2=& engines. Australia officially only received the four-door sedan and station wagon models.Nissan-Datsun New Zealand had the four-door manual sedans assembled locally from 1968, replacing two generations of Bluebirds (the name continued on 1600s sold in Japan) with the new 1600 export badge. Local content was about 40% and included glass, wiring, batteries, radiators, carpet and interior trim. Locally made radios were a dealer-fit accessory. The cars were built under contract at Campbell Motor Industries in Thames; the preceding Bluebird had been built at NZ Motor Bodies in Auckland. The first year or so of 1600s had ‘clap-hand’ wipers that parked in the centre of the windscreen and a rectangular speedometer; wipers soon were changed to a parallel action that cleared more glass. The 1970 facelift brought a new dashboard with recessed round dials, new tail lamps with additional chrome trim in the lens and detail changes to the grille. Automatic versions were a special import, built up, and only if (limited) import licence was available, and a few ‘SSS’ sedans were also imported fully assembled. The 1600, popular for modification and racing, not least due to its independent rear suspension (when contemporary rivals like the Ford Cortina and Toyota Corona had live, leaf-sprung rear axles), was replaced by the 180B in 1972 and was sought after used for many years afterwards.
As well as American and Oceanic markets the 510 was also imported into Europe, first imports were delivered shortly after the announcement of the car in Japan and was one of the models to spearhead the brand. The first UK imports were announced at the October 1968 Motorshow, the first models were the L16 saloons, with the estate versions following shortly after. L13 models arrived in early 1969, and a series of minor updates and equipment changes followed – as dictated by the changes made for the US market. The L14 model replaced the L13 in October, 1970, and was imported with the L16 until May, 1972, when the car was replaced by the far more successful (in the UK) 610. Nissan imported about 4000 510 models into the UK, and less than 10 of those original UK spec cars are known to exist. Nissan established a proper dealer network around the time the 510 was discontinued, (Octav Botnar was instrumental in the massive success of the brand in the UK) so the 510 never really received the marketing nor recognition that was achieved in other countries. All official imports in the UK were four-door saloons or estates, but several two-doors and at least one four-door SSS version are in the country.
South American versions of the Datsun 510 were delivered with OHV pushrod engines J series variety and leaf spring suspensions (no IRS) on all models.
The 510 was sold in Taiwan as the Yue Loong Bluebird 706 and was powered by the J13 from the 411 and leaf spring rear suspension.
The Datsun 510 differed with the markets it reached. In South America, Asia (excluding Japan) and in Africa, 510 sedan, 2-door & station wagon models traded rear independent suspension for a leaf-sprung solid axle. The engines for these markets also differed. Rather than the OHC 1.6l L-series, they received pushrod inline four-cylinder engines from the J-series with either 1.3l or 1.5l displacement. These variants were also known as Datsun 1500 (J15 engine) and Datsun 1300 (J13 engine). In these markets, the IRS Datsun with the L series engine was the Datsun Violet, aka 160JSSS. In the US, the Datsun 710 was the non IRS version of the Datsun 160JSSS. It appears the Datsun 510 was favored by Nissan in North America, while the Datsun 160JSSS was the choice outside of North America.
1969
The Datsun 1600 P510 was built in South Africa in Pretoria between 1969 and 1974. They were available as a 1600 deluxe, 1600 SSS sedan, 1600GL, 1600GL SSS and 1800GL SSS. They all had independent rear suspension and the SSS versions had twin carbs. These cars were very popular for motor sport in South Africa.
1970
In September 1970, the 1.3 and 1.6 L engines were replaced with 1.4 and 1.8 L units. In other parts of the world the 510 was equipped with J series OHV pushrod engines. In the US it remained a 1.6.
1972
The last of the P510 series went through Australian assembly lines in 1972, and due to the extensive use for rallying, the cars are now quite hard to find in any reasonable condition. In the U.S., Datsun P510 cars are becoming increasingly rare in the Rust Belt regions, but can still be seen in the more temperate Western and Southern States. Greatest numbers of the cars seem to be in the West Coast region.
The later years
The Datsun 510 was sold in Canada till 1981, it had rectangular front lights since previous models had round ones and in 1982, they changed it to (Nissan) Stanza. The 1981 model had a 2.0L (L20B) with 96 HP.
Motorsport
The 510 is best known in the United States for its competitiveness in the Trans Am Series under 2000cc class. Datsun won its class in 1971 and 1972. The Datsun 1600 was also very competitive in the Australian Rally Championship with outright and class wins throughout the 70s and the 80s and currently in historic classes.
The =&0=& 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
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
The S10 was the first mass-produced Silvia built on the S platform. This was “Nissan’s compact, rear-wheel-drive, sporty car platform”. 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
This iteration of the Silvia (sold in United States and Canada as the =&1=& and in Mexico as the =&2=&), 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.
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.
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
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 putting the 1.8 Turbo into the fastback, and created the “SE” model which had the 3.0L SOHC V6 engine (VG30E), generating 160 hp and 165 hp. This was the same engine offered in the non-turbo 300ZX for that generation. For 1988 the “SE” model received a 5 hp gain from using the later “W” series revisions of the VG30E with a total output of 165 hp while torque remained the same.
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.
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.
Special Editions
In Europe, a limited-run (~50 units) version of the S12 was produced and sold as the “Silvia Grand Prix” model. Based on a Mark I chassis, it was powered by the FJ20E (with a few known to be sold with the CA18ET), and featured molded-in fiberglass wide body fenders and quarter sections and special edition wheels.
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.
S13
The S13 Silvia, introduced in mid-1988 for the 1989 model year, was immensely popular in Japan. 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 (please see lower down for 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 Gazelle, 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 to 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 (Japanese model)
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
The most gorgeous of all the Skylines especially in the Bayside Blue colour, with huge tuning potential, my favourite of all the Skylines.
In May 1998, after sales of the Nissan Skyline plummeted from the release of the R33 chassis the EN34, HR34, ER34 and BNR34 addressed many of the concerns over the change from the R33, with more emphasis on sportiness, and marked the introduction of the more fuel-efficient and environmentally-friendly RB25DET NEO engine. Also the front end was re-arranged from the R33 unattractive front end and was aimed more towards the R32 style to draw people back into the “skyline world” . The RB20E engine was discontinued in the R34 base model (GT), and the RB20DE, after last being used in the R32 Skyline, was reintroduced in updated NEO guise. The R34 GT powered by the RB20DE NEO, coupled with a 5-speed gearbox, became the most fuel-efficient straight-6 Skyline to date (of any shape). Carlos Ghosn stated on the release date of the Nissan Skyline R34 that “We hope to win people back with the old school design based around the R32 shell, due to the initial complaints corresponded with the R33 chasis and body” The 5-speed automatic transmission available on some models in the previous two shapes were discontinued. In its place, Nissan produced a 4-speed Tiptronic transmission for all of the automatic versions (Except the base 2.0L, which has a standard 5 speed gearbox). Only the GT-T coupe variant was sold in New Zealand from 2000 and it was the only country besides Japan that sold the R34 GT-T model Skylines new. The GT-T models were rebadged as Infiniti G25t for export markets.
GT-R
The GT-R reappeared in 1999, with a revised chassis and other updates. The R34 turbos received a ball bearing core. The R34 N1 turbos had a metal exhaust wheel, and ball bearing center section. A 6-speed Getrag gearbox was used. The turbo outlet pipes were changed from cast to formed metal outlets. The intercooler outlet side and rear turbo dump pipe had temperature probes fitted in the V-spec models.
Give me a V-Spec II of these and I’ll be a happy bunny.
R33
The R33 Skyline was introduced in August 1993. Slightly heavier than the R32, it is available in coupe and sedan bodystyles. All models now used a 6-cylinder engine. Nissan took the unusual step of down-grading the GTS model to have only the RB20E, while the twin-cam of the R32 GTS was discontinued along with the 2.0 L turbo RB20DET.
Some models came equipped with a new version of the HICAS 4-wheel steering system called Super HICAS. This computer controlled system was first used on the R32 GT-R. Super HICAS used electric actuators to steer the rear, as opposed to the hydraulic HICAS. This generation was no longer considered a “compact” under Japanese legislation that determined the amount of tax liability based on exterior dimensions.
As an option, an active limited slip differential was available instead of the standard viscous LSD. This new unit locked the rear differential if it detected that traction was lost by one of the wheels. A light on the dash also lit up if the LSD engaged. Active LSD came standard on all V-Spec R33 GT-R Skylines and was also available on some ECR33 GTS-25t models; these can be identified by the A-LSD and SLIP lights on the tachometer.
The RB25DE and RB25DET engines also became equipped with NVCS (variable inlet cam phasing). NVCS equipped RB’s have a bulge on the front of the cam cover. To celebrate their 40th anniversary, Nissan introduced a very rare 4 door GT-R. Two versions of the 4-door GT-R were available from Nissan’s subsidiaries: the first was produced by Autech, and the second was a joint Autech/Nismo project.
An R33 based wagon was released in September 1996, called the Stagea. It had a different body style than the R33 and R34 and (with the exception of the RS FOUR & Autech variants) was only available with an automatic transmission. A common modification on the Stagea is to fit it with an R34 skyline front, in effect making a 4 door R34 wagon. The Stagea is the only four wheel drive manual transmission Nissan on the R33 platform with the RB25DET engine. Presumably, a 5-speed 4WD Skyline equipped with an RB25DET would have been too close in performance to the much more expensive GT-R. There was also an Autech Stagea, the 260RS released with full GT-R running gear, the RB26DETT engine, body kit, 17″ BBS style alloys, GT-R instrumentation, and manual transmission.
GT-R
The BCNR33 GT-R version also had the same RB26DETT engine that the BNR32 was equipped with, although torque had been improved, due to changes in the turbo compressor aerodynamics, turbo dump pipe, and intercooler. The turbo core changed from a sleeve bearing to a ball bearing, but the turbine itself remained ceramic, except on N1 turbos (steel turbine, sleeve bearing). From the R33 onward, all GT-Rs received Brembo brakes. In 1995 the GT-R received an improved version of the RB26DETT, the ATTESA-ETS four wheel drive system, and Super HICAS 4-wheel steering.
A limited edition model was created in 1996, called the NISMO 400R, that produced 400 hp (298 kW) from a road-tuned version of Nissan’s Le Mans engine. A stronger six-speed Getrag gearbox was used.
An R33 GT-R driven by Dirk Schoysman lapped the Nordschleife in less than 8 minutes. Though it was often said to be the first production car to break 8 minutes, the limited run Jaguar XJ220 had already achieved a 7’46” lap. Other manufacturers had caught up since the R32 was released, and the R33 never dominated motorsport to the extent of the R32.
Michael Begley with the Gaijin R33 GT-R currently holds the European four wheel drive 1/4 mile record with a time of 8.06 @ 173 mph. This record was set at Santa Pod raceway in England. Gaijin (“the outsider”) is tuned by TR Racing in Harlow Essex UK. This R33 GT-R is said to have had in the region of 1400 bhp. The owner Mick Begley lives in the UK and is reportedly chasing a 7 second pass. The four wheel drive 1/4 mile world record was set by Reece McGregor from New Zealand in the Heat Treatments R32 GT-R, setting a best time of 7:54 @ 197 mph, overtaking the haloed HKS R33 GT-R.
In August 2010, Elitetech Automotive (based near Silverstone, UK) launched a low volume production run of the R33 GT-R but in LHD (left hand drive) format. First deliveries will be made in early 2011, with vehicles being sold to Europe and further afield. All standard equipment remains on the specification list of the zero compromise LHD version.
The monster from Japan.! I own a R34 and have wanted one for ages, however, the more I see the R32 the more it grows on me, I think it looks great in this grey but if it was to be perfect it would need the R34 ass on it.! For what this car achieved back in the 80’s it has to be called a supercar.
R32
The R32 Skyline debuted in May 1989. It was available as either a 2-door coupe or 4-door hardtop sedan, all other bodystyles were dropped. The R32 featured several versions of the RB-series straight-6 engines, which had improved heads (the twelve port inlet was gone) and used the ECCS (Electronically Concentrated Control System) injection system. Also available was an 1,800 cc 4 cylinder GXi model. Most models had HICAS four-wheel steering, with the rear wheels being hydraulically linked to the front steering. The 2.5 litre GTS-25 became one of the first Japanese production cars to feature a 5-speed automatic transmission. The GTS-t came in standard and Type M configurations, with the Type M having larger five-stud 16 inch wheels, four piston front callipers and twin piston rears plus other minor differences. ABS was optional (except for the GT-R and GTS-4), mechanical LSD was standard on the GTR and viscous LSD was standard on all turbo models and optional on all but the GXi. Nissan also produced 100 Australian models of the R32. There was also a 4WD version of the GTS-t Type M, called the GTS-4.
GT-R
The GT-R returned with twin ceramic turbochargers, all-wheel steering, electronically controlled four wheel drive, and 276 hp at 6800 rpm. The RB26DETT engine actually produced ~320 hp, but it was unstated due to the Japanese car makers’ “gentlemen’s agreement” not to exceed 276 hp. The engine was designed for ~500 hp in racing trim, and then muzzled by the exhaust, boost restriction, and ECU. The electronic boost control had a small physical restriction in the control lines. It was marked in yellow so the new owner could remove it and enjoy a safe factory boost increase. After this increase the car would put out ~310 hp and could do 0–100 km/h in 4.7seconds and quarter mile in 12.8 seconds.
The GT-R had a significantly larger intercooler, larger brakes, and aluminium front guards and bonnet. Other distinguishing features include flared front and rear wheel arches. More supportive seats were fitted, and the turbo boost gauge and digital clock were removed from inside the instrument cluster. The clock was replaced with a torque meter that indicated how much torque was being delivered to the front wheels (0%–50%). Oil temp, voltage, and turbo boost gauges were fitted just above the climate control.
The Porsche 959 was Nissan’s target when designing the GT-R. The chief engineer, Naganori Itoh, intended to use the car for Group A racing, so the design specification was drawn up in conjunction with a copy of the Group A rules. The Nordschleife production car record at the time of development was 8’45” – set by a Porsche 944. Nissan test driver Hiroyoshi Katoh reset the record with a time of 8’20”.
The R32 GT-R dominated Japanese Touring Car Championship (JTCC), winning 29 races from 29 starts, taking the series title every year from 1989 to 1993. It took 50 races from 50 starts from 1991 to 1997 (latterly R33) in the N1 Super Taikyu.
The R32 GT-R was introduced in to the Australian Touring Car Championship in 1990 and promptly ended the reign of the previously all-conquering Ford Sierra Cosworth, winning Bathurst 1000 classic in 1991 and 1992. This success led to the Australian motoring press nicknaming the car Godzilla due to it being a “monster from Japan”. As Australia was the first export market for the car the name quickly spread. Such was GT-R’s dominance that it was a significant factor in the demise of Group A Touring Car racing, the formula being scrapped soon after. JTCC was similarly blighted by the R32 GT-R, and splintered soon after, leading to the switch to the Supertouring category and also indirectly to the GT500 category of today.
When originally designed, the homologation rulebook mandated 16-inch wheels, so that’s what the GT-R got. This limited the size of the brakes, and the Nissan four pots weren’t really up to competition use. A later change in rules allowed 17-inch wheels, so in February 1993 the GT-R V-spec (for Victory) emerged wearing 17″ BBS mesh wheels(225/50/17) covering larger Brembo brakes. The clutch actuation changed from a push to a pull system, the car had the standard rear differential, the electronic rear differential did not show up until the R33 Vspec. A year later the V-Spec II appeared with a new sticker and wider tires(245/45/17).
This car has character in my opinion, I love the lines, the way the lights are cut into the wings and once again those flared arches.!
The Datsun 280Z also called the Nissan Fairlady Z and was produced in the late ’70’s. The engine size was a 2.8 litre, by enlarging the bore of the L26 engine to create the L28, and a reliable Bosch L-Jetronic fuel injection system was added. Power was 170bhp at 5600rpm.
In 1977 and 1978 respectively, Datsun offered two special edition models. The “Zap” edition was offered in 1977 as a “Special Decor Package”. Zap cars were finished in Sunshine Yellow paint, and sported black stripes down the center and sides, with yellow, red, and orange chevrons at the front ends of the stripes. An estimated 1,000 “Zap Z” cars were offered in 1977. The “Zap Z” model was also used as the pace car in the 1977 Long Beach Gran Prix. The Black Pearl edition (produced in 1978) came with Black Pearlescent paint and a “Special Appearance Package” (SAP), which consisted of dual racing mirrors, rear window louvers, and a unique red and silver stripe. It is estimated that between 750-1,500 of these cars were produced.
The Nissan GT-R is personally one of my most favourite cars. If I held the winning lottery ticket it would be the first car I would buy, which I would drive to the Aventador garage.! Having owned Nissan 200sx (S13) and now my Skyline R34 I definitely have a soft spot for these iconic Japanese cars.The 2013 GT-R has a 3.8 litre twin turbocharged V6 engine that produces 550PS@6400rpm.
Nissan chief creative officer, Shirō Nakamura, has likened the new GT-R to the giant robots of the Gundam series.Nakamura stated: “The GT-R is unique because it is not simply a copy of a European-designed supercar; it had to really reflect Japanese culture.”
Nissan’s American designers sculpted the rear three quarters of the vehicle, while their European designers sculpted the roofline.
Polyphony Digital, creators of the Gran Turismo series of motor racing video games, were themselves involved in the development of the GT-R, having been contracted to design the GT-R’s multifunction display.
The Nissan GT-R’s body construction uses Nissan’s Premium Midship (PM) platform with hybrid unibody assembled using high-precision, ultra-low-tolerance jigs similar to racecar construction. Aluminum is used for the hood, trunk lid and outer door skins, with die-cast aluminum front shock towers and inner door structures. All outer body panels stamped using multiple-strike coining process for added rigidity and precision. The GT-R also has a Carbon-composite front crossmember/radiator support. Its paint is an advanced 6-stage paint process with double clear coat and chip-resistant paint in critical areas. An optional color is Super Silver special metallic paint, with 8-stage process, including three cleacoats and hand-polishing to achieve a lustrous, liquid effect. The Premium Nissan GT-R has a body-colored rear spoiler whereas the Black Edition has a dry carbon-fiber rear spoiler. Both the Premium and Black Edition GT-R are fitted with high intensity discharge (HID) headlights, automatic on/off headlights, LED daytime running lights, LED taillights and brake lights, dual heated body-color power outside mirrors, power folding outside mirrors, flush-mounted aluminum door handles, four 5″ exhaust outlets with polished tips and UV-reducing solar glass.
For the 2014 model year, Nissan introduced a limited production Track Edition GT-R, which gets all the same features as the Black Edition, but adds a more aggressive suspension, carbon fiber air inlets, better brake cooling, a unique front spoiler, and new black and gray leather Recaro front seats. Nissan have also removed the rear seats, saving 22 lbs over the Black Edition.
The Nissan GT-R is powered by the VR38DETT V6 engine, a 3,799 cc (3.8 L; 231.8 cu in) DOHC V6 with plasma transferred wire arc sprayed cylinder bores. Two parallel Ishikawajima-Harima Heavy Industries (IHI) turbochargers provide forced induction. Models manufactured between 2007 and 2010 produce a manufacturer-claimed engine output of 485 hp at 6400 rpm and 434 lb·ft at 3200–5200 rpm. The engine also meets California Air Resources Board Ultra Low Emsission Vehicle (ULEV) standards. A curb weight of 1,730 kg (3,810 lb) or 1,736 kg (3,827 lb) with side curtain airbags is achieved using a jig welded steel chassis with aluminum used for the hood, trunk, and doors. A rear mounted six-speed BorgWarner designed dual clutch semi-automatic transmission built by Aichi Machine Industryis used in conjunction with the Attesa E-TS system to provide power to all four wheels and along with Nissan’s Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC-R) to aid in stability. Three shift modes can also be selected for various conditions. Beginning in 2010, engine power and torque were upgraded to 523 hp at 6400 rpm and 451 lb-ft at 3200–6000 rpm respectively. Models produced in 2012 again featured improved engine output 542 hp at at 6400 rpm and 463lb-ft at 3200–5800 rpm). In the near future, it is speculated that the GT-R might even be available as a hybrid.
2012 Facelift
The revised GT-R features an engine with revised mapping, changes to valve timing, larger inlets and a revised exhaust system which boosts rated power to 530 bhpand 612Nm of torque from 3200 to 6000rpm. Changes also include a new more rigid front strut bar made from carbon composite, larger front brake rotors, new lighter and stiffer wheels, and revised Dunlop tires. Cosmetic changes include a new front bumper with integrated LEDs. The front bumper improves cooling to the radiator and front brakes while reducing drag. A new rear diffuser improves downforce and also includes additional rear cooling ducts. The interior was revised to improve the quality. The revised GT-R went on sale in Japan from mid November 2010 and February 2011 in Europe, North America and other regions.
Spec-V
Nissan introduced the GT-R SpecV on January 7, 2009 at the 2009 Tokyo Auto Salon. Exterior changes from the base GT-R consist of a carbon fiber rear spoiler, grille, and brake ducts, along with an exclusive Ultimate Black Opal paint job. Interior changes include a set of carbon fiber Recaro front seats with the rear seats being completely removed. Carbon fiber covers the center storage box, instrument panel, and replaces the majority of the interior trim.
The GT-R SpecV is powered by the standard twin-turbo 3,799 cc (3.8 L; 231.8 cu in) V6 with no increase in horsepower. A new high gear boost controller that allows a temporary increase in boost pressure to the IHI twin turbochargers, now larger than those on the standard GT-R, should deliver more torque in mid to high-range revs. Other mechanical changes include a titanium exhaust, reworked suspension, carbon ceramic brakes, and 20-inch (510 mm) Nismo wheels. Overall weight is decreased by 60 kg over the standard GT-R.
Performance
Nissan claims the GT-R can reach a top speed of 193 mph. In tests the original production model was shown to be capable of achieving 0-60 mph times as low as 3.2 seconds using “launch control.”
