If you're looking for a compact Japanese sports car with character, Nissan Silvia S110 (1979–1983) - one of the most interesting models in the line S-platform. This generation became a bridge between the early Silvia S10 with their classic forms and revolutionary S12, which brought turbo engines and modern aerodynamics. S110 often underestimated, but it laid the foundation for the future successes of the series - thanks to its balanced suspension, reliable engines and tuning potential.
In this article we will look at technical features model, compare it with competitors (like Toyota Celica And Mazda RX-7 SA22C), let's reveal unique weaknesses of the S110, which sellers are silent about, and we will give practical advice on choosing a specimen for restoration or tuning. If you dream of retro JDM with soul, but don’t know whether to buy it S110 - here you will find the answers.
History of creation: why the Silvia S110 became a transitional link
Debut Nissan Silvia S110 came in 1979, a time when Japanese automakers were actively experimenting with design and technology. S110 replaced S10, which by the end of the 70s looked outdated. The main task of engineers Nissan saw the creation of a machine that would combine sporty character with the comfort of an everyday car. The result is a coupe with more modern lines, improved ergonomics and, importantly, rear wheel drive, which was so loved by drifting enthusiasts.
Interesting fact: S110 became the first Silvia, which was officially exported to the USA - although under the name Datsun 200SX (in Europe - Datsun 180SX for versions with a 1.8-liter engine). This solution helped Nissan gain a foothold in Western markets, but also created confusion with names that continues to this day. For example, in Japan S110 offered with motors Z18E And Z20E, while in America the main one was Z20E with injector.
- 📅 Years of production: 1979–1983 (in Japan until 1984 for some versions).
- 🏭 Factories: Main production - Nissan Oppama Plant (Japan), partially assembled for export to Taiwan and Australia.
- 💰 Starting price in 1979: ~1.8 million yen (≈$8,000 at the exchange rate of that time).
Design S110 developed Yutaka Katayama - legendary engineer Nissanknown as "father" Z-car". He sought to create a machine that would be more compact 280Z, but maintained a sporting spirit. The result was a coupe with wedge-shaped front, hidden headlights (optional for top versions) and a short rear overhang - ideal proportions for drifting. However, due to strict American safety standards 200SX received massive bumpers that spoiled the appearance.
Technical specifications: engines, transmission and suspension
With my heart Nissan Silvia S110 steel inline four series gasoline engines Z, which have already proven themselves in Datsun 510 And Stanza. The base engine for the Japanese market was Z18E (1.8 l, 95 hp), but the most interesting are the versions with Z20E (2.0 l, 110–130 hp depending on market). The latter were equipped electronic fuel injection (in the USA - the system ECCS), which was a progressive decision for the early 80s.
The transmission was offered to choose from: 4-speed manual (standard) or 3-speed automatic (optional). The latter option is rare today and is valued by collectors for its exoticism. Suspension S110 - classic for Nissan that time: front on MacPherson struts, back - independent multi-link with wishbones. This scheme provided good controllability, but had a weak point - rear control arm silent blocks, which wore out by 100,000 km.
| Parameter | Z18E (1.8 l) | Z20E (2.0 L, Japan) | Z20E (2.0 L, US) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Power | 95 hp at 5,600 rpm | 110–120 hp (depending on year) | 100 hp (due to strict emission regulations) |
| Torque | 142 Nm at 3,600 rpm | 167 Nm at 4,400 rpm | 157 Nm at 3,600 rpm |
| Fuel system | Carburetor (Hitachi) | Injector (ECCS) | Injector (ECCS, adapted for AI-91) |
| Acceleration 0–100 km/h | 11.5 sec | 9.8 sec | 10.5 sec |
Deserves special attention brake system: front discs (ventilated on top versions) and rear drums. This combination was typical for that time, but today it requires special attention when tuning - many owners install rear discs from S12 or Nissan 200SX S130. Another feature S110 — recirculating ball steering, which begins to “play” over time. The problem is solved by replacing the steering rack with a similar one from Nissan Stanza.
- Z18E (aspirated 1.8)
- Z20E (injector 2.0)
- Z20ET (turbo, rare)
- Anyone, the main thing is potential
Weaknesses and typical problems: what to look for when purchasing
Like any car 40 years ago, Nissan Silvia S110 has a number chronic diseases, which a potential buyer should know about. The main problem is corrosion. Body S110 not galvanized, so rust attacks:
- 🚗 Thresholds and lower parts of doors — the first ones suffer from dirt and reagents.
- 🔧 Wings (especially rear) - often rot from the inside, where moisture accumulates.
- 🛠️ Trunk floor and spare wheel — check the drainage holes!
- 🔥 Spars under the radiator - if there is rust, repairs will be expensive.
The second critical point is Z series engines. Despite their reputation as "unkillable", they require attention:
- ⚙️ Oil pump — on engines with a mileage of over 150,000 km, it often wears out, which leads to a drop in oil pressure.
- 🔥 Cylinder head — prone to cracks between valve seats (especially if the engine overheats).
- 🛢️ Fuel pump - on injection versions it fails after 200,000 km.
⚠️ Attention! If the seller claims that S110 “never rusts” because “it was stored in a garage” - ask for a photo of the lower part of the body on a lift. Even “garage” examples often have hidden corrosion in the roof and trunk drainage channels.
The third group of problems is related to electrician. U S110 weak points:
- 💡 Generator — often undercharges the battery due to wear on the brushes.
- 🔌 Relays and fuses — contacts oxidize, which leads to “glitches” of the dashboard.
- 📡 Electric drive antenna — the mechanism breaks down, and spare parts are difficult to find.
☑️ What to check before buying S110
Tuning and modifications: how to unlock the potential of the S110
Nissan Silvia S110 - an excellent base for tuning, especially if you like atmospheric engines with high speeds. The most popular way is boosting Z20E up to 150–180 hp naturally aspirated. To do this usually:
- 🔧 Install camshafts from Nissan Z22E or Z24 (for example, shaft
264/264from Tomei). - 💨 Modernize the intake and exhaust: 4-2-1 "spider", forward flow 60 mm, zero resistance filter.
- ⚡ Setting up the injector with the help Haltech or Megasquirt (original ECCS too limited).
- ⛽ Increases compression ratio up to 10.5:1 due to pistons from Nissan CA18DE.
For those who want turbo version, there are two ways:
- Install turbo kit to standard
Z20E(for example, a set from Garrett T25 with intercooler). Potential - up to 200 hp, but the box will need to be strengthened. - Swap the motor from S12 (
CA18ET) or S13 (SR20DET). The latter option gives 250+ hp, but requires modifications to the suspension and brakes.
No less important suspension tuning. Standard geometry S110 allows you to achieve neutral steering, but for drifting or track usually:
- 🔄 Install racks Tein or Koni with adjustable hardness.
- 🛠️ Replace silent blocks to polyurethane (for example, from Energy Suspension).
- 🔧 Stabilizers are added from S12 or 280ZX for better directional stability.
⚠️ Attention! When swapping on SR20DET Be sure to strengthen the subframe and engine mounts. Standard mounting points Z20E are not designed for the torque of a turbo engine, and the body can “drive” during sudden acceleration.
What boxes are suitable for the SR20DET swap?
For SR20DET in S110 most often used:
- 5-speed manual transmission from S13/S14 (requires a bellhousing adapter and a new driveshaft).
- 6-speed from 350Z (expensive, but gives better gear ratios).
- Reinforced 4-mortar from Z31 300ZX (budget option, but with long passes).
In any case, you will have to modify the box tunnel and fastenings.
Comparison with competitors: Silvia S110 vs Toyota Celica vs Mazda RX-7
Late 70s - early 80s Nissan Silvia S110 competed with two main rivals: Toyota Celica A40/A60 And Mazda RX-7 SA22C. Each of these cars had its pros and cons, and the choice often depended on the driver's preferences.
| Parameter | Nissan Silvia S110 (Z20E) | Toyota Celica GT (2.0 18R-G) | Mazda RX-7 SA22C (1.1 rotor) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Power | 110–130 hp | 135 hp (carburetor) | 100–135 hp (depending on the market) |
| Weight | 1,050–1,100 kg | 1,150–1,200 kg | 1,030 kg |
| Drive | Rear | Rear | Rear |
| Pros | Easy tuning, reliable suspension, rarity | Easy to maintain, large selection of spare parts | Unique rotor sound, low center of gravity |
| Cons | Poor corrosion resistance, rare spare parts | Boring design, weak brakes | Expensive rotor maintenance, problems with seals |
Silvia S110 wins against Celica in terms of controllability and potential for tuning, but loses in reliability - Toyota famous for its “indestructible” engines 18R/20R. Mazda RX-7, in turn, offers a unique driving experience thanks to its rotary engine, but its maintenance is significantly more expensive. If you need budget project for drifting, S110 is the best choice. If reliability is important, take a closer look at Celica.
When choosing between S110 And Celica A60 pay attention to the price of spare parts. For example, racks Tein for Silvia cost 30% more than for Toyota, but the suspension Nissan handles loads better on the track.
Market and prices: how much does the Silvia S110 cost today
Prices for Nissan Silvia S110 vary greatly depending on condition, market and configuration. In Japan stock copies in good condition cost from 800,000 to 1,500,000 yen (≈$5,500–$10,000). In the USA and Europe prices are higher - from $8,000 to $20,000, and the most expensive versions are 200SX with injection Z20E and hidden headlights.
In Russia and CIS countries S110 is extremely rare. The main proposals are:
- 🚗 Imported from Japan copies with a mileage of 80,000–120,000 km - from 700,000 to 1,200,000 rubles.
- 🔧 Restoration projects (with rust or not running) - from 300,000 to 600,000 rubles.
- 💎 Collector's Editions (For example, Silvia RS-X with full power accessories) - up to 2,000,000 rubles.
When purchasing, pay attention to documents: many S110 are imported as “spare parts” or have problems with customs clearance. It's also worth checking ownership history — cars with one owner and a full service history cost 30–50% more.
⚠️ Attention! If the seller offers S110 with motor SR20DET "already installed", ask for a photo of the swap and documents for modifications. Often such cars have problems with registration due to design changes.
The most popular versions S110 - these are Japanese Silvia RS-X (with power accessories) and American 200SX with injector. They are the ones that have the greatest potential for value growth.
Restoration and care: how to keep the S110 in perfect condition
Restoration Nissan Silvia S110 requires patience and access to rare parts. Main stages:
- Body work:
- 🔨 Rust removal and welding work (especially in sills and fenders).
- 🎨 Painting in original colors (for example, Silvia Red 402 or Dark Blue Metallic 616).
- Engine and transmission:
- ⚙️ Overhaul with replacement of rings, liners and oil pump.
- 🔧 Replacement of clutch and box bearings (original Nissan or Exedy).
- Interior:
- 🪑 Restoration of seats (original fabric "houndstooth" or leather).
- 🎛️ Repair of the dashboard (lights often burn out and plastic cracks).
Where to look for spare parts:
- 🇯🇵 Japan: Yahoo! Auctions, Rakuten, shops Nissan Classic Parts.
- 🇺🇸 USA: ZCarDepot, Black Dragon Auto (specialize in Datsun/Nissan).
- 🇪🇺 Europe: Oldtimer-Teile-Börse (Germany), Retro Rides (UK).
To care for S110 important:
- 🛢️ Use mineral oil 15W-40 (For example, Nissan Genuine Oil) - synthetics can cause leaks through old seals.
- ⚡ Check once a year distributor contacts and candles (original - NGK BPR6ES).
- 🔧 Adjust every 50,000 km valve (gaps: inlet - 0.20 mm, outlet - 0.30 mm).
How to check the originality of S110?
Original S110 have:
- Body number on the plate under the hood (starts with S110-...).
- Engine markings on the block (for example, Z20E-123456).
- Original glass with logo Nissan or Datsun below.
If any of these signs are missing, the car may have been reassembled or repainted.
FAQ: answers to frequently asked questions about the Nissan Silvia S110
Can you put a turbo on a standard Z20E?
Yes, but you will need:
- Install a turbo kit (for example, Garrett T25 or T28).
- Strengthen the pistons and connecting rods (standard ones can withstand up to 0.5 bar of boost).
- Set up the injector using Haltech or Megasquirt.
- Update the fuel system (pump Walbro 255 l/h, 440 cc injectors).
With proper assembly you can get 180–220 hp, but the engine life will be reduced to 80,000–100,000 km.
What kind of oil should I put in the Z20E?
Recommended mineral or semi-synthetic oil viscosity 15W-40 or 20W-50. Synthetics (eg 5W-30) can cause leaks through old seals. Popular options:
- Nissan Genuine Motor Oil 15W-40 (original).
- Castrol GTX 20W-50 (good alternative).
- Valvoline VR1 20W-50 (for high loads).
Replacement interval - every 5,000 km (or once a year if the mileage is low).
Where can I find a wiring diagram for S110?
Original diagrams can be downloaded:
- On the website NicoClub (section
Datsun 200SX). - In the archive Datsun1200 (there are diagrams for Z20E).
- In a group Datsun 200SX Owners on Facebook.
The book is also useful "Nissan Silvia & 200SX S110 Service Manual" (can be found at eBay).
How much does a complete restoration of an S110 cost?
The cost depends on the condition of the car:
- Body work (welding, painting) - from 300,000 to 800,000 rubles.
- Engine and transmission (overhaul, clutch) - from 200,000 to 500,000 rubles.
- Interior (trimming, dashboard) - from 100,000 to 300,000 rubles.
- Tuning (suspension, brakes, engine) - from 200,000 rubles and above.
Total: minimal restoration will cost 800,000–1,000,000 rubles, and complete rebuild with tuning - from 1,500,000 to 3,000,000 rubles.
Is it possible to put an engine from S13/S14 in S110?
Yes, but it's a difficult project. Popular options:
SR20DET(from S13/S14) - you will need:- Bell box adapter (eg