Review: Nissan S15 200SX (2000-02)

Overview

Released in November 2000, the Nissan S15 200SX was a rear-wheel drive, sports coupe. Manufactured in Iwaki, Japan, the S15 200SX was powered by a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine that was mated to either six-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmissions. The 200SX range consisted of Spec S and Spec R variants, though GT editions were released in May 2002.

SR20DET engine and transmissions

The SR20DET engine had an aluminium block and cylinder head, double overhead camshafts, a Garrett T28 turbocharger which provided peak boost pressure of 0.73 bar (10.6 psi), an intercooler, computer controlled wastegate, four valves per cylinder, Nissan’s variable intake valve timing control system (NVCS) and a compression ratio of 8.5:1. The engine featured Nissan’s direct ignition system (NDIS) which used a compact transistorised ignition coil on top of each spark plug rather than the distributor and high tension leads of conventional electrical systems.

The six-speed manual transmission had close-ratios and a sixth overdrive gear; the first, second and third gears also had triple cone synchronisers for smooth gearshifts, while the second, third and fouth gears had asymmetric chamfered gears for positive shifting.

Dimensions and suspension

Compared to the S14 200SX , the S15 200SX was 60 mm shorter (at 4445 mm), 35 mm narrower (1695 mm) and 10 mm lower (1285 mm), though the wheelbase was unchanged (2525 mm).

The 200SX had MacPherson strut front suspension with transverse lower links, torsion raods and an anti-roll bar. Furthermore, the multi-link rear suspension had wide-based diagonal A-arms which used lateral links below and twin convergent links above (as per the R34 Skyline GT-R).

Safety equipment

Standard safety equipment for the S15 200SX included dual front airbags, ABS and brake assist.

Brakes

The S15 200SX had 280 mm by 30 mm ventilated front brake discs and 258 mm by 9 mm solid rear discs.

Features

Standard features for the 200SX Spec S included 16-inch alloy wheels with 205/55 R16 89V tyres, a four speaker sound system with CD player, air conditioning, contoured sports seats, a leather-wrapped gear knob and steering wheel, remote central locking, a tilt and reach adjustable steering wheel and an immobiliser.

The 200SX Spec R was further equipped with a six-stack CD player, side skirts, rear spoiler and electric sunroof.

While 200SX models with manual transmissions were fitted with helical limited slip differentials as standard, models with automatic transmissions had a viscous limited slip differential.

2002 Nissan 200SX: Spec S GT and Spec R GT

Released in May 2002, the GT editions were released for the Spec S and Spec R variants. The GT editions were distinguished by their polished chrome alloy wheels, leather seats, ‘high performance’ rear spoiler, drilled racing pedals, chrome interior door handles and GT badges.

Related links

• Wikipedia.org: Nissan S15 200SX