The Nissan Silvia CSP311 is an iconic car that marked the beginning of the Silvia series. Its unique design, limited production, and historical significance have made it a collector’s gem. Here’s a comprehensive overview:
Origins and Design
- The development of the CSP311 traces back to Albrecht Goertz, a German designer known for creating the BMW 507. He was consulting for Nissan and worked on project A550X, which laid the foundation for the Silvia after the project’s cancellation in 1964.
- The Silvia CSP311 debuted at the Tokyo Motor Show in September 1964 under the name “Datsun Coupé 1500.”
- Its design stood out due to its elegant, hand-built coupe body. The styling was clean and refined, blending European influences with Japanese engineering.
Specifications
- Platform: Based on the Nissan Fairlady.
- Engine: Powered by the 1.6L Nissan R series engine producing 96 PS (71 kW), equipped with twin SU carburetors.
- Top Speed: 165 km/h (103 mph), making it one of the fastest Japanese cars of its time.
- Brakes: Disc brakes, which contributed to its excellent stopping power and suitability for high-speed pursuits.
Production
- The Silvia CSP311 was largely hand-built, resulting in a production run of only 554 units between 1965 and 1968.
- The meticulous craftsmanship and limited production made each unit unique, with slight differences in details.
- Of the 554 units:
- Most remained in Japan.
- 49 units were exported to Australia.
- 10 units were shipped to other countries, including Europe, where 4 were left-hand-drive versions showcased at events and exhibitions.
Role in Law Enforcement
- In December 1965, Nissan supplied 2 CSP311 Silvias to the Tokyo Metropolitan Police Department for highway patrol use.
- These units were Japan’s first high-performance patrol cars, chosen for their speed, reliability, and braking performance.
- Although modified for police duty, the engine remained standard.
Legacy
- The CSP311 marked the beginning of the Silvia lineage, which would go on to gain worldwide fame with later models like the S13, S14, and S15.
- Its combination of exclusivity, innovative design, and performance has cemented its status as a classic and a milestone in Japanese automotive history.
