Nissan · S14
Nissan Silvia S14
The S14 grew the S13 formula into a longer, wider, more grown-up coupe with a stronger SR20DET and a stiffer chassis, trading a little of the S13's flickability for more stability at speed.
Spec Sheet
- Generation / Chassis Code
- S14
- Years Produced
- 1993–1998
- Manufacturer
- Nissan
- Country
- Japan
- Body Style
- 2-door coupe
- Engine
- 2.0L turbo inline-4 (SR20DET)
- Horsepower
- 217–220 hp
- Torque
- 202 lb-ft
- Transmission
- 5-speed manual
- Drivetrain
- RWD
- Weight
- ~2,750 lbs
- 0–60 mph
- ~6.2 seconds
History
Introduced in 1993, the S14 refined the Silvia's proportions and updated the SR20DET with better internals, arriving just as Japan's tuning and drift scenes were exploding in popularity through magazines and early motorsport events.
Why It Became Famous
It became a favorite of both grip and drift enthusiasts thanks to its stiffer chassis and stronger factory power output, and its clean, understated styling has aged into a modern classic look.
Strengths
- Stiffer, more planted chassis than the S13 at higher speeds
- Stronger factory SR20DET internals than early S13 units
- Still light and RWD, keeping the platform's drift and grip appeal
- Cleaner, more modern styling that has aged well
Weaknesses
- Longer wheelbase makes it slightly less flickable than the S13 in tight drift situations
- Less common in some export markets than the S13/240SX
- Same aging electrics and interior plastics as other 90s Nissans
- Facelifted 'Kouki' front-end parts can be pricier due to demand
Common Problems
- Timing chain tensioner wear on higher-mileage SR20DET engines
- Rust in rear arches and trunk floor on poorly stored examples
- Worn rear subframe bushings from spirited or drift use
- Aftermarket wiring from past turbo/engine swaps causing electrical gremlins
Modification Potential
Excellent — the SR20DET responds well to bolt-on turbo upgrades, and the chassis accepts the same wide range of suspension, swap, and aero modifications the S13 does.
Buying Guide
Look for the desirable late 'Kouki' facelift front clip, verify chassis straightness given the car's drift-culture popularity, and check SR20DET compression and boost history before buying.
Enthusiast Popularity Today
Extremely popular in drift and stance communities, with clean, low-mileage examples now commanding real collector premiums.
Fun Facts
- The S14 was sold in North America as the 240SX with the non-turbo KA24DE, mirroring the S13's export strategy
- Nissan offered a factory Autech version with unique aero and a limited production run
- The S14's chassis code lives on in drift media as one of the most-filmed platforms in Japan's Ebisu Circuit drift events
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