The Nissan Silvia S10 marked a pivotal moment in the Silvia lineage as the first mass-produced model to be built on the all-new S platform, Nissan’s compact, rear-wheel-drive, sporty car platform. Though it wasn’t a massive commercial success in some markets, the S10 became a foundational model that paved the way for future Silvia models.
Development and Design
- Platform & Concept: Built on the S platform, the Silvia S10 was envisioned as a compact, sporty car with a focus on rear-wheel drive, catering to the growing demand for affordable performance vehicles.
- Design Influence: The S10 shared design cues with the larger C110 Skyline, giving it a less traditional appearance compared to its rivals, such as Toyota and Mazda. Its design was more angular, lending it a distinctive look in the compact sports coupe segment.
- Rotary Engine Plans: Originally, the S10 was to feature a rotary engine. However, due to the oil crises of the 1970s, this idea was scrapped in favor of more conventional engines.
Japanese Market
- Engine & Performance: The 1.8L L18S straight-four engine was used in the Japanese S10, borrowed from the Datsun 610/Bluebird 180B. The engine was equipped with Nissan’s NAPS emission control technology when the car was introduced.
- Upgrades: In 1976, the S10 received an upgrade to the L18E engine with electronic fuel injection, replacing the carburetor system. This upgrade also changed the model’s name to the S11. Further changes in 1977 included interior improvements, a new body-colored grille, updated wheels, and new trim levels like the Type-G.
North American Market
- Datsun 200-SX: The Silvia S10 was exported to North America as the Datsun 200-SX in 1976, featuring the larger 2.0L L20B engine. It also had the mandatory 5 mph bumpers and a left-hand drive (LHD) interior. At a starting price of US$4,399 (equivalent to US$23,000 today), it was positioned as an affordable sports car.
- Limited Success: Despite its solid specifications, the S10’s success in North America was limited, with many buyers opting for the more popular Toyota Celica. The S10 was often seen as less exciting and more mundane in comparison.
Performance and Legacy
- Handling: While the S10 was criticized for its less-than-ideal handling (due to its leaf spring rear suspension), it still had notable achievements in motorsport.
- Motorsport Success: Actor and racer Paul Newman famously raced a 1977 Datsun 200SX in the 1978 IMSA Class C, where it dominated the competition, winning 19 out of 22 races. This success helped cement the S10’s reputation as a capable racing platform, even if it was less impressive in standard form.
Production and Conclusion
- Production Numbers: During its 4-year lifespan, the Silvia S10 produced over 145,000 units before production ended in 1979.
- Cultural Impact: Though the S10 wasn’t the commercial powerhouse it could have been, it played an essential role in the evolution of the Silvia nameplate, contributing to its future success with models like the S13, S14, and beyond.