Nissan 240SX

Nissan 240SX at a glance

The S platform dates from the mid-1970s and underpins several generations of the Silvia. For North America, Nissan created the 240SX in 1988 with a bigger engine and more equipment than Japanese versions, replacing the less powerful 200SX. The 240SX is not related to the earlier 240Z or 280ZX. Nissan's story is told in the history of Nissan, and its Japanese twin is covered on the Nissan Silvia S14 page.

First generation S13 (1989–1994)

The S13 240SX arrived for the 1989 model year in two bodies: a three-door fastback hatchback and a two-door notchback coupé. Both had the front end of the 180SX sold in Japan with pop-up headlights, unlike the Silvia's fixed lights; enthusiasts often swap front ends between the models. Trims included base, SE, LE and XE versions, and from 1993 to 1994 a convertible built by ASC on the coupé body was offered.

The original KA24E was a 2.4-litre single-overhead-camshaft four-cylinder with three valves per cylinder, producing 104 kW (140 hp) and 206 Nm (152 lb-ft). From the 1991 model year it was replaced by the twin-cam KA24DE with four valves per cylinder, giving 116 kW (155 hp) and 217 Nm (160 lb-ft). Car and Driver measured 0–60 mph in 8.6 seconds for the SOHC car and 7.9 seconds for the DOHC version.

Suspension uses MacPherson struts at the front and a multi-link rear axle, praised for its steering and handling. The S13 had disc brakes on all four wheels, with ABS optional on the SE, and from 1991 the sports package on hatchbacks included HICAS four-wheel steering, which turns the rear wheels slightly for stability.

Second generation S14 (1995–1998)

Released in spring 1994 as a 1995 model, the S14 was offered only as a coupé. The wheelbase grew by 51 mm (2 in), the track was wider, and Nissan claimed a much stiffer body, with 50% more torsional rigidity. Weight rose by only about 36 kg. The KA24DE carried over with internal revisions and 116 kW (155 hp), paired with a 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic. MotorWeek measured 0–60 mph in 7.3 seconds.

The S14 had fixed headlights and a smoother, rounder body. For the 1997 model year it was facelifted: enthusiasts call the earlier cars "zenki" and the later ones "kouki". The update brought narrower projector headlights, a new bonnet with V-shaped creases, a larger trapezoidal grille, new front wings and bumpers with rectangular intakes, and new tinted tail lights; better-equipped cars had a boot-lid spoiler. Production of the 240SX ended on 23 July 1998, as buyers in North America turned to SUVs and other practical vehicles.

Engines and gearboxes

Both generations used a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic gearbox. North American cars never received the turbocharged CA18DET and SR20DET engines of the Silvia and 180SX sold in Japan, which is why many owners later fitted those engines in tuning projects.

Interior

The cabin is simple, though North American cars had more equipment and better trim than home-market versions. The front seats are of medium width with modest side support, while the rear seats have short cushions and an upright backrest, suitable only for short trips. The driver faces a large instrument cluster and a three-spoke steering wheel with a wide hub. The V-shaped centre console has rectangular air vents above the climate controls and the audio unit below, and the tunnel holds a cup holder and armrest.

Drifting and tuning culture

Light weight, rear-wheel drive, a balanced chassis with a roughly 55:45 weight distribution and a large aftermarket made the 240SX one of the most popular cars for drifting in North America, from amateur events to Formula D. Owners often fit Silvia front ends or turbo engines from Japanese models. Strong demand for unmodified cars and parts has pushed up prices, a trend enthusiasts call the "drift tax", so original, unmodified examples are increasingly rare.

Rivals and related cars

In North America the 240SX competed with the Toyota Celica, Honda Prelude, Mazda MX-6 and Ford Probe, and offered rear-wheel drive when most rivals had switched to front-wheel drive. Its closest relatives are the Silvia and 180SX, which share its platform and suspension layout; other rear-drive Japanese sports cars of the era include the Mazda RX-7 and the Nissan Skyline. Rear-drive coupés of all eras are collected among sports cars.

Buying a Nissan 240SX today

Most surviving cars have been modified. When inspecting one, check for crash damage from drifting, rust in the sills, floor and rear arches, the condition of the KA24 timing chain and its guides, oil leaks, worn suspension bushes and the condition of the differential and gearbox. Paperwork showing the original engine and specification adds value.