Nissan 240SX

Last updated

Nissan 240SX
1990 240sx Quarter View.JPG
1990 Nissan 240SX XE Hatchback (S13) in the USA.
Overview
Manufacturer Nissan
Production1989–1998
AssemblyJapan: Kanda, Fukuoka (Nissan Motor Kyūshū)
Body and chassis
Class Sports car
Layout FR layout
Platform Nissan S platform
Related
Chronology
Predecessor Nissan 200SX

The Nissan 240SX is a sports compact car that was introduced to the North American market by Nissan in 1989 for the 1990 model year. It replaced the outgoing 200SX (S12) model. Most of the 240SXs were equipped with the 2.4-liter inline-four engine (KA24E from 1989 to 1990 and KA24DE from 1990 to 1998). The KA24E had a single overhead cam and the KA24DE had dual overhead cams. Two distinct generations of the 240SX, the S13 (1989–1994) the S14 (1994-1998) were produced, based on the Nissan S platform.

Contents

The 240SX is closely related to other S platform based vehicles, such as the Japanese-market Silvia and 180SX , and the European-market 200SX . Although their names are similar, the 240SX is unrelated to the 240Z or the 280ZX.

The 240SX is known for its popularity within drifting and tuner culture. However, due to the popularity of the S-chassis in drifting and related competitions, prices for vehicles and parts have greatly increased due to higher demand. This problem is sometimes known as "drift tax". [1]

First generation (S13; 1989–1994)

First generation
(S13)
Red 240SX II.jpg
The facelift model Nissan 240SX SE Hatchback (S13).
Overview
Production1989–1994
Body and chassis
Body style 2-door coupé
3-door hatchback
2-door convertible
Powertrain
Engine 2.4 L KA24E/KA24DE I4
Transmission
  • 5-speed manual
  • 4-speed automatic
Dimensions
Wheelbase 2,474 mm (97.4 in)
Length4,521 mm (178.0 in)
Width1,689 mm (66.5 in)
Height1,290 mm (50.8 in)
Curb weight 1,224 kg (2,698 lb)

The first generation of the 240SX can be divided into two distinct versions: the hatchback, which was offered in base, SE, and LE trims, and the coupé, which was offered in base, XE, LE and SE trims. Both styles shared the same front bodywork as the Japanese-market Nissan 180SX, featuring the sloping front with pop-up headlights. This front bodywork distinguishes the coupé model from its Japanese-market counterpart, the Silvia, which featured fixed headlights. Both styles in all markets share the same chassis, and with few exceptions, most components and features are identical.

1991-1993 Nissan 240SX LE coupe (rear) 1993 Nissan 240SX LE in Aztec Red, Rear Left, 07-06-2019.jpg
1991-1993 Nissan 240SX LE coupé (rear)

1989 and 1990 models are powered by a naturally aspirated 140 hp (104 kW), 152 lb⋅ft (206 N⋅m)2,389 cc (2.4 L; 145.8 cu in) SOHC KA24E four-cylinder engine with three valves per cylinder (instead of the turbocharged and intercooled 1.8-liter DOHC CA18DET offered in Japan and Europe in the 180SX and Silvia). When tested by Car and Driver , the SOHC 240SX achieved a 0-60 mph (97 km/h) time of 8.6 seconds and a quarter mile time of 16.4 seconds at 83 mph (134 km/h). [2] Four-wheel disc brakes were standard, with anti-lock brakes available as an option on the SE. Both models were offered with either a 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmission. Coupes offered a Heads-up display (HUD) with a digital speedometer as part of the optional Power Convenience Group.

The 240SX received some updates in 1991. The matte silver, teardrop wheels were replaced by polished aluminium 7-spoke wheels that had better brake cooling properties but more drag. The nose was smoothed out by getting rid of the non-functional slots and gave back the aerodynamic efficiencies lost by the wheels. This gave the car an overhaul that included a minor update of the exterior and a new cylinder head. A new "LE" hatchback trim package was added that included leather interior. The SOHC KA24E was replaced by the DOHC KA24DE, now with 4 valves per cylinder, rated at 155 bhp (157 PS; 116 kW) at 5,600 rpm and 160 lb⋅ft (217 N⋅m) of torque at 4,400 rpm. When tested by Car and Driver , the DOHC 240SX achieved a 0-60 mph (97 km/h) time of 7.9 seconds and a quarter mile time of 16.2 seconds at 84 mph (135 km/h). [3] An optional sports package including ABS, a limited-slip differential, and Nissan's HICAS four-wheel steering was now available on hatchback models.

The facelift model Nissan 240SX SE Fastback (S13) in the USA. Red 240SX.jpg
The facelift model Nissan 240SX SE Fastback (S13) in the USA.

The S13 was praised by journalists for sharp steering and handling (thanks to front MacPherson struts and a rear multilink suspension) and relatively light weight, but was regarded in the automotive press as being underpowered. [4] The engine, while durable and relatively torquey, was a heavy iron-block truck unit that produced meager power for its relatively large size. It was only modestly improved by the change to the DOHC version in 1991. Furthermore, despite the modest power output, relatively low weight, and good aerodynamics, gas mileage was mediocre. These engines are the primary difference between the North American 240SX and the international-market Silvia/180SX/200SX. The KA24DE did not come turbocharged while the CA18DET and SR20DET did. Other differences include a standard limited-slip differential on overseas and Canadian models, available digital climate control in Japan, and manual seat belts standard in Japan and Canada vs. automatic restraint seatbelts in the U.S.

Second generation (S14; 1994–1998)

Second generation
(S14)
Nissan 240SX S14 1.jpg
Facelift model Nissan 240SX (S14) "Kouki"
Overview
Production1994–1998
Model years 1995–1998
Body and chassis
Body style 2-door coupe
Powertrain
Engine 2.4 L KA24DE I4 (gasoline)
Transmission
  • 4-speed automatic
  • 5-speed manual
Dimensions
Wheelbase 2,525 mm (99.4 in)
Length4,498 mm (177.1 in)
Width1,727 mm (68.0 in)
Height1,288 mm (50.7 in)
Curb weight 1,253 kg (2,762.4 lb)

The second generation 240SX was released in the spring of 1994 as a 1995 model. The hatchback and convertible body styles were eliminated, leaving only the coupe. The wheelbase of the car grew 2 in (51 mm) and the track width was also increased, while the overall length of the vehicle was slightly shorter than the previous generation. The curb weight of the vehicle increased by about 80 lb (36 kg) relative to the 1994 model. [5] Dual air bags were added and the automatic seatbelts were replaced with common manual type. The pop-up headlights were replaced with fixed headlamps. The cupholders were also removed in this generation of the Nissan 240SX. Though the general layout remained the same, almost all parts were redesigned to the extent that very few parts are interchangeable. The chassis was changed slightly to increase stiffness (Nissan claimed 50% torsional, 100% bending rigidity increase)[ citation needed ] and utilized higher rear strut mounts. The fuel tank, previously located at the rear end under the trunk floor, now sits in front of the rear suspension and behind the rear seats. The second generation carries over the naturally aspirated DOHC KA24DE engine from the first generation, producing the same 155 bhp (157 PS; 116 kW) at 5,600 rpm and 160 lb⋅ft (217 N⋅m) of torque at 4,400 rpm, but features internal revisions for improved throttle response and reduced shake and vibration. When tested by MotorWeek , the 240SX achieved a 0-60 mph (97 km/h) time of 7.3 seconds and a quarter mile time of 15.5 seconds at 89 mph (143 km/h). [6] Upon its launch, Nissan said the primary target demographic for the new 240SX was single women with no children, stating that women already made up 61% of 240SX buyers, and that they hoped to increase that number. [7] [8]

Nissan 240SX (S14) pre-facelift "Zenki" S14zenki.jpg
Nissan 240SX (S14) pre-facelift "Zenki"

The base model had 4-lug, 15-inch wheels, a softer suspension, and no rear sway bar. The base model had several options and features available to be fitted to the car such as leather seats, ABS, and a viscous limited-slip differential. SE and LE models came equipped with 5-lug, 16-inch alloy wheels, a stiffer suspension than the base model, and a rear sway bar. The LE was basically an upgraded SE model, but with more standard equipment such as leather seats, keyless entry, an anti-theft system, and a CD player. Anti-lock brakes and a viscous limited-slip differential could be had as an optional package to both base and SE/LE models.

Nissan 240SX SE (S14) Nissan 240SX S14 rear 2.jpg
Nissan 240SX SE (S14)

In 1996, the 1997 model year 240SX received minor updates. The different looks of the S-Chassis are referred to as before change "Zenki" and after change "Kouki". Changes were mostly aesthetic, including new projector headlights, front bumper, hood, fenders, and revised taillights and center panel. Side skirts became standard on the SE and LE trim level. 1998 marked the end of production for the Nissan 240SX, with no further variations released in North America.

This generation of the 240SX suffered in sales due to competition from other car manufacturers and consumers at the time choosing more practical vehicles, such as SUVs. In this generation, every 240SX was built in Kyūshū, Japan. The last 240SX rolled off the assembly line on July 23, 1998.

Motorsport

Nissan 240SX IMSA GT racing car. IMSA GT Nissan 240SX.jpg
Nissan 240SX IMSA GT racing car.

The IMSA GTU Nissan 240SX was originally piloted by vintage Datsun and Nissan racer Bob Leitzinger through the late 1980s and 1990s. It is currently owned and raced by Philip Mendelovitz. The tube chassis was custom built for IMSA GTU class racing. From Speedhunters: "The roofline and taillight lenses are some of the only parts this thing shares with a normal S13. [9] The engine is Nissan's VG30 V6 typically found in the Nissan Z and D21 truck. It is naturally aspirated and dry sumped, and a United States engine builder who managed to help the single overhead cam V6 to make about 340 horsepower. Chassis code LR-001, seen right, was entered in nearly 80 different events during its career, and it helped Nissan earn four-straight manufacturers championship wins between 1991 and 1994. [9] The engine tuning system utilizes a Sony Walkman to write engine performance metrics to tape. These tapes are fed to a special computer to change fueling, timing, and other tuning parameters.

Drifting

Two 240SXs drifting in tandem Forge Motorsport Action Day Castle Combe 2013 (9762008344).jpg
Two 240SXs drifting in tandem

The Nissan 240SX is a popular platform within the drifting community, both in amateur competition as well as in professional series such as Formula D. Although never marketed to the drifting community during its production, its Japanese counterparts, the Nissan 180SX and Nissan Silvia (S13), were adopted in Japan during the foundational years of drifting. They were chosen for their balanced weight distribution of 55/45 front to rear, and their overall lightweight RWD layout. [1]

Related Research Articles

The Nissan 200SX is an automobile nameplate that has been used on various export specification Nissan automobiles between 1975 and 2002.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Volkswagen Polo</span> Model series by Volkswagen

The Volkswagen Polo is a supermini car (B-segment) produced by the German car manufacturer Volkswagen since 1975. It is sold in Europe and other markets worldwide in hatchback, saloon, and estate variants throughout its production run. As of 2018, six separate generations of the Polo have been produced, usually identified by a "Series" or "Mark" number.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Honda Prelude</span> Motor vehicle

The Honda Prelude is a sports car produced by the Japanese company Honda over five generations from 1978 to 2001.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Mazda Familia</span> Motor vehicle

The Mazda Familia, also marketed prominently as the Mazda 323, Mazda Protegé and Mazda Allegro, is a small family car that was manufactured by Mazda between 1963 and 2003. The Familia line was replaced by the Mazda3/Axela for 2004.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Nissan Sunny</span> Car model produced by Nissan

The Nissan Sunny is an automobile built by the Japanese automaker Nissan from 1966 till 2004. In the early 1980s, the brand changed from Datsun to Nissan in line with other models by the company. Although production of the Sunny in Japan ended in 2004, the name remains in use in China and GCC countries for a rebadged version of the Nissan Almera.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Nissan SR engine</span> Reciprocating internal combustion engine

The SR engine is a series of 1.6 L (1,596 cc), 1.8 L (1,838 cc) or 2.0 L (1,998 cc) straight-four, four-stroke gasoline engines manufactured by Nissan. It has an aluminium head and block with steel sleeves and has a DOHC 4-valve design, with variable valve timing on select models. It was added to a new engine family name PLASMA.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Nissan KA engine</span> Reciprocating internal combustion engine

The KA engines were a series of four-stroke inline-four gasoline piston engines manufactured by Nissan, which were offered in 2.0 and 2.4 L. The engines blocks were made of cast-iron, while the cylinder heads were made of aluminum.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Nissan Sentra</span> Car model

The Nissan Sentra is a series of automobiles manufactured by the Japanese automaker Nissan since 1982. Since 1999, the Sentra has been categorized as a compact car, while previously it occupied the subcompact class. Until 2006, Sentra was a rebadged export version of the Japanese Nissan Sunny, but since the 2013 model year, Sentra is a rebadged export version of the Sylphy. The Sentra nameplate is not used in Japan. Many other countries in Latin America sell their versions of the Sunny as the Sentra. In Mexico, the first three generations of the Sentra were known as the Nissan Tsuru, and the B13 model was sold under that name until 2017, alongside the updated models badged as Sentra.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Nissan CA engine</span> Reciprocating internal combustion engine

The CA engine is a series of 1.6 to 2.0 L Inline-4 piston engines from Nissan. It is designed for a wide variety of smaller Nissan vehicles to replace the Z engine and some smaller, four-cylinder L series engines. The "CA" stands for Clean Air, due to the installation of Nissan emission reducing technology, called NAPS-X.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Nissan SR20DET</span> Reciprocating internal combustion engine

The SR20DET is a 2.0 L (1,998 cc) straight-four four-stroke gasoline engine that is part of the SR family of engines from Nissan, produced from 1989 to 2002. It is a turbocharged version of the SR20DE engine and is a replacement of the CA18DET engine.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Nissan NX</span> Motor vehicle

The Nissan NX is a front wheel drive 2-door sports car produced by Nissan Motors. The NX was, loosely, an evolution of the Nissan Pulsar NX/Nissan EXA sold from 1987 to 1990 and the Nissan Sunny Coupe lines of the 1970s and 1980s, merging the Nissan B13 and N14 lineages. The NX was released in Japan in 1990.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Nissan 180SX</span> Motor vehicle

The Nissan 180SX is a fastback automobile that Nissan Motors produced between 1988 and 1998. It is based on the S13 chassis from the Nissan S platform with the variants receiving an R designation. It was sold exclusively in Japan paired with the CA18 motor in the early models; later models paired with the SR20 motor. Outside of Japan, it was re-badged as the 200SX and in the US market as the Nissan 240SX, paired with the single overhead cam KA24E motor and later with the dual-overhead model KA24DE.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Nissan Lucino</span> Motor vehicle

The Nissan Lucino is a small automobile nameplate used by the Japanese manufacturer Nissan between 1994 and 2000. The Lucino name applied simultaneously to a pair of entirely different vehicles—a two-door coupé version of the Sunny/Sentra (B14)—and badge engineered versions of the Nissan Pulsar (N15) three- and five-door hatchbacks. For Japan, coupés arrived first in 1994, followed by hatchbacks in 1995. Production in Japan ended in 1999, except for the five-door that lingered on until 2000.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Toyota Corolla (E90)</span> Sixth generation of Toyota Corolla

The Corolla E90 was the sixth generation of cars sold by Toyota under the Corolla nameplate, introduced in 1987 for the 1988 model year. It was the last generation of Corolla to be classified as a subcompact car and the first to be exclusively front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive; the performance option of rear-wheel drive was dropped.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Honda Civic (fourth generation)</span> Fourth generation of Honda Civic

The fourth-generation Honda Civic is a Japanese sub-compact automobile. It was produced by Honda from 1987 until 1991 with the wagon continuing in production in some markets until 1996. The suspension had a new double-wishbone suspension in the front and an independent suspension in the rear, the wheelbase was increased to 250 centimetres (98 in) from that of the third-generation Civic, and the body was redesigned with a lower hood line and more glass, resulting in less drag. The redesigned Civic was introduced in 1987 for the 1988 model year. The fourth-generation Civic would be available in three variants; 3-door hatchback, 4-door sedan and 5-door wagon with various trim levels offered in each variant.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Honda Civic (fifth generation)</span> Motor vehicle model, 1991–1995

The fifth-generation Honda Civic is an automobile produced by Honda from 1991 until 1995. It debuted in Japan on September 9, 1991. At its introduction, it won the Car of the Year Japan award for the second time. Fifth-generation Civics were larger than their predecessors, had more aerodynamic bodies, and the wheelbase was increased to 257 cm (101.3 inches)—for the three-door hatchback—and to 262 cm (103.2 inches)—for the four-door sedan. The Civic Shuttle station wagon was not part of the fifth generation and was dropped for overseas markets, while the previous-generation wagon continued in Japan and Europe.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Honda Civic (sixth generation)</span> Sixth generation of Honda Civic

The sixth-generation Honda Civic is an automobile produced by Honda from 1995 until 2000. It was introduced in 1995 with 3-door hatchback, 4-door sedan and 2-door coupe body styles, replicating its predecessor's lineup. The sixth-generation Civic offered two new 1.6-liter 4-cylinder engines and a new continuously variable transmission (CVT) on the HX model. The coupe and sedan are 2.3 in (58 mm) longer and the hatchback is 4.3 in (109 mm) longer than the previous-generation Civic. This was the last generation of Civic to have front double-wishbone suspension, as the succeeding seventh generation would change the front suspension to a MacPherson strut.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Honda Civic (seventh generation)</span> Motor vehicle

The seventh-generation Honda Civic is an automobile produced by Honda from 2000 until 2005. It debuted in September 2000 as a 2001 model. Its exterior dimensions stayed similar to the outgoing predecessor, with interior space significantly increased, bumping it up to the compact car size designation. A notable feature was the flat rear floor that gave better comfort to the rear seat passengers. This generation abandoned the front double wishbone suspension, used previously from fourth to sixth generations, replacing it with MacPherson struts. This generation was the last to offer 4WD variants.

The Nissan Pulsar EXA and Nissan EXA are automobiles manufactured and marketed by Nissan Motor Company from 1983 to 1986 and from 1986 to 1990 respectively. The first generation model was internally designated as the N12 series and was marketed in Japan at Nissan Cherry Store locations as the Pulsar EXA. The second generation EXA was designated as the N13 series.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Nissan Silvia</span> Sports car manufactured by Nissan

The Nissan Silvia is the series of small sports cars produced by Nissan. Versions of the Silvia have been marketed as the 200SX or 240SX for export, with some export versions being sold under the Datsun brand.

References

  1. 1 2 Wilcox, Adam (2020-04-08). "How the Nissan Silvia (240SX) went from humble coupe to drift king". Hagerty Media. Retrieved 2024-04-24.
  2. Griffin, Larry (1989-02-01). "Tested: 1990 Nissan 240SX Rekindles the Spirit of the Original Z-Car". Car and Driver.
  3. Antoine, Arthur St. (1992-04-01). "Tested: 1992 Fun Four-Cylinder Two-Door Showdown". Car and Driver.
  4. Csere, Csaba (1989-07-01). "Tested: 1989 $20K Sports Coupe Roundup". Car and Driver.
  5. "1995 Nissan 240SX Road Test: Performance, Engine, Transmission, Suspension, Brakes, and Handling". Automotive.com. Archived from the original on 2009-02-20. Retrieved 2010-10-15.
  6. Silvestro, Brian (January 28, 2021). "1995 Nissan 240SX In-Period Video Review by MotorWeek". Road & Track. Retrieved February 5, 2021.
  7. By (1994-04-14). "NISSAN SHIFTS GEARS, AIMS NEW 240SX AT WOMEN". Orlando Sentinel. Retrieved 2024-04-24.
  8. Demere, Mac (1996-08-02). "Acura 2.2CL & Nissan 240SX SE". Motor Trend.
  9. 1 2 Garrett, Mike (September 2016). "Cool, S13 Bro: The IMSA GTU 240SX". Speedhunters.com. Retrieved April 8, 2022.

Works cited