Nissan Silvia S110: A Look at Its Legacy, Performance, and Evolution

The Nissan Silvia S110, introduced in 1979, marked another evolution in the Silvia lineage, blending stylish design with enhanced performance. Known for its unique body options and variety of engines, the S110 would go on to serve as a critical model in Nissan’s lineup. It was sold under various names in different regions, including Datsun 200SX in North America and Datsun Sakura in Mexico.

Design and Development

• Body Styles: The S110 was available in two body styles: a 2-door hardtop coupe and a 3-door hatchback. The hatchback version was called the Gazelle in Japan, sold through Nissan Store dealerships alongside the Fairlady Z, while the coupe variant was exclusive to Nissan Prince Store locations, sold alongside the Skyline.
• Styling: The S110’s sharp-edged, angular design was shared with the newly launched Nissan Leopard, a larger sedan and coupe exclusive to Nissan Store. The car’s clean lines and modern look contributed to its sporty appeal.

Engine and Performance

• Initial Powertrain: Initially, the S110 was intended to feature a rotary engine designed by Nissan, but due to reliability issues, it was scrapped. Instead, a new range of engines from the Z-series was introduced.
  • Engines:
    • Z18/S/E I4 (1770 cc)
    • Z18ET Turbo I4 (1770 cc) – available exclusively in Japan after the 1981 facelift.
    • L20B I4 (1952 cc)
    • Z20/Z20E I4 (1952 cc)
    • FJ20E DOHC I4 (1990 cc)
    • FJ24 DOHC I4 (2340 cc) in the 240RS rally model.
• Transmission: The S110 offered a 3-speed automatic or a 5-speed manual transmission, allowing drivers to choose between convenience or sportier handling.
• Performance: The Turbo model with the Z18ET engine produced 135 PS (99 kW), delivering a strong performance in a compact package. The FJ20 engine in the 240RS model further bolstered the Silvia’s performance, particularly in rallying.

Upgrades and Facelifts

• In 1981, the S110 received a facelift, which included:
  • New bumpers.
  • A reworked front design.
  • The introduction of DOHC FJ20 engines, particularly in the 240RS model, which was aimed at motorsport and rallying.
• The turbocharged models, although sporting, shared much of the same chassis as the non-turbo versions, lacking a boost indicator or major performance modifications.

Gazelle and Silvia Models

• In Japan, the Gazelle was marketed as a more exclusive version of the S110, while the Silvia remained the base, sportier option.
• Cosmetic Differences: The two models featured minor differences such as grille patterns and taillight lenses, with the Gazelle considered the more upscale variant.

North America

• The Datsun 200SX was the name under which the S110 was sold in North America. The model was available in both the 2-door coupe and 3-door liftback configurations.
  • Engines: Initially equipped with a 2.0L L20B I4, and in 1980, California-market cars received the Z20 NAPS-Z engine.
  • Power Output: Early models produced around 100 hp (75 kW), while later versions saw a boost to 103 hp (77 kW) thanks to the Z22E engine.
  • Transmission Options: Offered with a 5-speed manual or 3-speed automatic, the car catered to both performance enthusiasts and those seeking comfort.
  • Facelift: In 1982, the 200SX received a facelift, including sportier trim for the hatchback version and a more luxurious trim for the coupe.
  • Top Model: The SL trim was the top-level version, featuring luxury features like a remote opening hood, trunk, and gas tank lid, as well as a removable glass skyroof.

Motorsport and Legacy

• The 240RS model, in particular, made its mark in rallying, with its performance-oriented design and the FJ24 engine. The S110’s rally heritage helped solidify its legacy as a performance car in Nissan’s lineup.
• While the S110 was not as commercially successful as some other models in the Silvia range, it is remembered for its bold design and the launch of the turbocharged and DOHC engine variants.

Production and Conclusion

• Production Period: The Nissan Silvia S110 was produced from 1979 to 1983, and it was assembled at the Nissan Shatai Plant in Kanda, Fukuoka.
• Legacy: The S110 helped lay the foundation for future generations of the Silvia, particularly influencing the S12 model that followed in 1984.