200 SX (1989-94)

COMMON FAULTS

Please Note: Common Faults in Regularly Used Vehicles vs. Low-Mileage Stored Vehicles that have been used consistently over many years, accumulating approximately 10,000–12,000 miles annually, are more prone to common faults due to regular wear and tear. These issues typically arise from the natural aging of components subjected to frequent use, such as engine parts, suspension systems, brakes, and tires. In contrast, vehicles with low mileage that have been stored or preserved are likely to experience different types of issues. These vehicles are often better maintained to ensure their longevity and may avoid some of the typical wear-and-tear problems seen in regularly driven cars. However, they can still face unique challenges such as degradation of rubber seals, corrosion from prolonged inactivity, or fuel system issues caused by old or stagnant fuel.

The Nissan 200SX, like many cars of its era, has a few common faults that owners have reported over the years. Here are some of the most frequently mentioned issues:

1. **Rust**: The 200SX is prone to rust, particularly in areas like the wheel arches, underbody, and around the rear suspension mounts.

2. **Electrical Problems**: Owners have reported issues with the car's electrical system, including problems with the alternator, battery, and wiring.

3. **Suspension Wear**: Over time, the suspension components can wear out, leading to a less comfortable ride and potential handling issues.

4. **Engine and Transmission Issues**: Some owners have experienced problems with the engine and transmission, including oil leaks, timing chain noise, and clutch wear.

5. **Cooling System Problems**: Issues with the radiator, water pump, and thermostat have been reported, leading to overheating and coolant leaks.

Despite these common faults, the Nissan 200SX is generally considered a reliable and fun car to drive. If you're thinking about getting one, it's a good idea to have it thoroughly inspected by a mechanic to ensure it's in good condition.

*****

Generations/Trim Levels

The Nissan 200SX went through several generations, each with its own unique design and features. Here are the main generations and their trim levels:

1. **First Generation (S10; 1975–1979)**:

- Trim Levels: Base, Deluxe

- Engine Options: 1.8L Inline-4

2. **Second Generation (S110; 1979–1984)**:

- Trim Levels: Base, Deluxe, Turbo

- Engine Options: 2.0L Inline-4, 1.8L Turbo Inline-4

3. **Third Generation (S12; 1984–1989)**:

- Trim Levels: XE, SE, Turbo

- Engine Options: 1.8L Turbo Inline-4, 2.0L Inline-4, 3.0L V6

4. **Fourth Generation (S13; 1989–1994)**:

- Trim Levels: XE, SE, LE, Turbo

- Engine Options: 1.8L Turbo Inline-4, 2.0L Inline-4

5. **Fifth Generation (S14; 1993–1999)**:

- Trim Levels: Base, SE, LE, Turbo

- Engine Options: 2.0L Turbo Inline-4

6. **Sixth Generation (S15; 1999–2002)**:

- Trim Levels: Spec-S, Spec-R

- Engine Options: 2.0L Turbo Inline-4

Each generation brought improvements in performance, design, and technology, making the 200SX a popular choice among car enthusiasts.

*****

Designer/Dimensions

The Nissan 200SX S13 was designed by **Kazutoshi Arima**. Here are its dimensions:

- **Wheelbase**: 2,475 mm (97.4 in)

- **Length**: 4,520 mm (178 in)

- **Width**: 1,690 mm (66.5 in)

- **Height**: 1,290 mm (50.8 in)

- **Curb Weight**: 1,190 kg (2,624 lb)

These dimensions contributed to its sleek and sporty appearance, making it a popular choice among car enthusiasts.

*****

Where Manufactured

🏭 Manufacturing Origins: Nissan 200SX (1989–1994, S13 Generation)
The Nissan 200SX S13 was built across several global facilities, depending on the market it served. Here's a breakdown of its key manufacturing locations:

🌍 Primary Production Sites / Region / Model Name / Manufacturing Location / Notes

Japan / Silvia S13 / Nissan's Oppama Plant / Main production hub for domestic market

United States / 240SX S13 / Smyrna, Tennessee / KA24E/KA24DE engines; tailored for U.S.

Europe (UK) / 200SX S13 / Imported from Japan / CA18DET turbo engine; not built locally

Australia/NZ / Silvia/200SX / Imported from Japan / Often rebadged; niche enthusiast market

🔧 Additional Notes

• The Oppama Plant in Japan was the central hub for Silvia production, which formed the basis of the 200SX nameplate in export markets.

• The Smyrna Plant in Tennessee handled North American 240SX production, adapting the chassis for local regulations and preferences.

• European and Commonwealth markets typically received Japanese-built units, with no dedicated local assembly for the S13 variant.

*****

Production Total: 📊 Production Total: Nissan 200SX (1989–1994)
The exact global production figure for the Nissan 200SX S13 (1989–94) isn’t officially documented in public sources. However, based on available data and market trends, estimates suggest that well over 300,000 units were produced worldwide across various trims and regional variants.

🌍 Regional Breakdown (Estimated)

Region / Estimated Production Share / Notes

Japan (Silvia S13) / ~45–50% / Sold as Silvia; high domestic popularity

North America (240SX) / ~30–35% / Marketed as 240SX with KA24DE engine

Europe (200SX) / ~10–15% / CA18DET turbo engine; fewer units due to niche appeal

Australia & Others / ~5–10% / Limited imports; often rebadged or sold under Silvia   nameplate

*****

Most Favoured Colour

🎨 Most Favoured Colour of the Nissan 200SX (S13, 1989–94)

Across enthusiast communities, resale listings, and restoration circles, certain colours of the Nissan 200SX (S13 generation) consistently stand out—not just aesthetically, but in terms of desirability and historical authenticity. While Nissan offered a broad palette, a few shades have emerged as enduring favourites among collectors, tuners, and purists.

🏁 Enthusiast-Favourite Colours

• Super Black (KH3)Sleek, aggressive, and timeless
  Favoured for stealth builds and period-correct BTCC-style restorations
  

• Arctic White (QM1)Clean and striking; popular for showcasing the car’s lines
  Often chosen for motorsport-inspired liveries
  

• Aztec Red (AG2)Bold and attention-grabbing
  Associated with JDM styling and frequently seen in promotional materials
  

• Midnight Blue Pearl (TH1)Deep, metallic finish prized for its rarity
  Adds richness without overpowering the car’s design
  

• Diamond Mist / Silver Mist (663)Elegant and understated
  Common on survivor cars and praised for aging gracefully
  

🔍 Collector Insights

• Super Black and Arctic White are the go-to choices for restorers aiming for visual impact or motorsport nostalgia.

• Midnight Blue Pearl is increasingly prized by purists due to its rarity and complex finish.

• Colours like Aztec Red have gained traction with younger enthusiasts embracing retro-JDM aesthetics.

*****

Engine

The Nissan 200SX built between 1989 and 1994, also known as the S13, was fitted with the **CA18DET** engine. Here are the key specifications:

- **Engine Type**: 1.8-liter Inline-4 Turbo

- **Power Output**: **169 horsepower** (126 kW) at 6,400 rpm

- **Torque**: **165 lb-ft** (224 Nm) at 4,000 rpm

This engine provided a good balance of performance and efficiency, making the 200SX a popular choice among car enthusiasts.

*****

Performance

The Nissan 200SX S13, produced between 1989 and 1994, offered impressive performance for its class. Here are some key performance specifications:

- **Top Speed**: 140 mph (225 km/h)

- **0-60 mph**: 7.2 seconds

- **Engine**: 1.8-liter Inline-4 Turbo (CA18DET)

- **Power Output**: 169 horsepower (126 kW) at 6,400 rpm

- **Torque**: 165 lb-ft (224 Nm) at 4,000 rpm

These figures made the 200SX S13 a popular choice among car enthusiasts for its balance of performance and handling.

*****

Main Rivals (Performance)

Here are the performance specifications for the main rivals of the Nissan 200SX S13 in the UK:

1. **Ford Sierra XR4i**:

- Engine: 2.8-liter V6

- Power Output: **150 horsepower**

- Top Speed: **130 mph** (209 km/h)

- 0-60 mph: **8.0 seconds**

2. **Toyota Celica GT-Four**:

- Engine: 2.0-liter Turbo Inline-4

- Power Output: **200 horsepower**

- Top Speed: **140 mph** (225 km/h)

- 0-60 mph: **6.3 seconds**

3. **Mazda RX-7**:

- Engine: 1.3-liter Rotary

- Power Output: **200 horsepower**

- Top Speed: **140 mph** (225 km/h)

- 0-60 mph: **6.0 seconds**

These sporty cars offered a range of performance options, catering to different preferences and driving styles.

*****

Spares/Specialists NI

You can find spare parts for the Nissan 200SX in the UK and Ireland at several online stores. Here are a couple of options:

1. [EU Spares](https://www.euspares.co.uk/original-parts/nissan/200-sx/200-sx-s13): They offer a wide range of replacement parts for the Nissan 200SX, including brakes, filters, suspension components, and more.

2. [Auto Parts Pro](https://www.autopartspro.co.uk/nissan-200-sx-carparts/200-sx-s13): This site provides OE original parts for the Nissan 200SX, including bulbs, spark plugs, brake fluid, and more.

For garage services in Northern Ireland, here are a few options:

1. **Commons Brae Garage**: Located at 188 Saintfield Road, Belfast BT8 6NN. They offer a range of car repair services.

2. **MJS Garage Services Ltd.**: Located at 194 Killyman Road, Dungannon BT71 6LN. They provide vehicle servicing, MOT testing, air conditioning servicing, and more.

3. **McCormick's Garage**: Located at Unit 1, Glenford Way, Newtownards BT23 4BX. They offer general repairs, air con servicing, headlamp alignment, and more.

4. **Burnside Garage Ltd.**: Located at Units 2-3 24 Ballyrashane Rd, Coleraine BT52 2NL. They specialize in car and commercial recovery and auto transmission repair.

These garages and services should be able to help you with any maintenance or repairs needed for your Nissan 200SX.

*****

Racing

The Nissan 200SX S13, also known as the Silvia in some markets, had a notable presence in motorsports, particularly in drifting and touring car racing. Its rear-wheel-drive layout, balanced chassis, and turbocharged engine made it a popular choice among amateur and professional racers.

In drifting, the 200SX S13 became a favorite due to its ability to handle high-speed slides and its tunable engine. It was widely used in events like the D1 Grand Prix and Formula Drift.

In touring car racing, the 200SX S13 competed in various national and international championships, including the Japanese Touring Car Championship (JTCC) and the British Touring Car Championship (BTCC). Its performance and reliability made it a competitive choice in these series.

Overall, the Nissan 200SX S13 has a rich motorsport history and remains a popular choice among car enthusiasts and racers.

*****

Valuation

The value of a 1989-1994 Nissan 200SX in the UK in 2025 can vary depending on its condition, mileage, and any modifications. On average, you can expect to find a well-maintained Nissan 200SX priced between **£14,000 and £20,000**.

If you're looking to buy or sell one, it's always a good idea to check current listings on websites like [The Classic Valuer](https://www.theclassicvaluer.com/cars/nissan/200sx) or [Parkers](https://www.parkers.co.uk/nissan/200-sx/used-prices/) for the most accurate and up-to-date valuations.

*****

Clubs

There are owners clubs for the Nissan 200SX in Northern Ireland. One notable club is the [Nissan Owners Club](https://www.nissanownersclub.com/forums/topic/21281-nissan-100nx/), which has a dedicated section for the 200SX.

Clubs offer a great way to connect with other owners, share experiences, and find support for maintenance and restoration.

*****