Used Nissan 180SX for sale

The Nissan 180SX is a fastback car (the rear of the car has a single slope from the roof to the rear bumper). Its production started from 1988 and ended in 1998. The car was built on the S13 chassis from the Nissan S platform and was made for the Japanese Domestic Market only. In other markets, the car was known under the name Nissan 200SX or Nissan 240SX.

The car was named based on the its early engine in the chassis - the 1.8L displacement CA18DET engine. In 1991, Nissan upgraded the engine to a 2.0L engine, being available in 2 forms: the naturally aspirated SR20DE engine and the turbocharged SR20DET. Though the new engine offered a bigger displacement, the nomenclature of the car remained the same.

3 Generations of Nissan 180SX

From 1988 to 1998, Nissan produced three generations of the 180SX. The first generation made its debut in 1898, the second began in 1991 and ended in 1995, and the third one started in 1995 and ended in December 1998. Nissan gave to each generation some updates to make the car more powerful and attractive. To learn about them, keep reading the parts below as they will show you information about the Nissan 180SX engine of each generation as well as some updates in interior and exterior designs.

First generation (1989-1991)

The first generation made its debut in 1989 with 2 versions: the standard type (aka Type I) and the advanced type (aka Type II). Both versions had the CA18DET engine and became the pride of the Japanese automaker at that time. Additionally, the 5-speed manual and 4-speed automatic transmissions were available in all types. But Nissan’s HICAS II 4-wheel-steering system was only available on the Advanced Type (Type II) as an option.

Second generation (1991-1996)

Released in January 1991, there were some changes in the second generation compared to the first models. The larger SR20DET engine was equipped for these models which produced 202 horsepower. Although this engine had been bigger, it still retained the nomenclature of the '180SX' engine. 

A facelift of the second generation debuted in 1992. Generally, there was not too much change to the car. Besides, Nissan added a new trim level called Type III. CD audio and Electronic climate control were offered as optional features.

In 1994, another facelift was introduced. Overall, the car largely remained visually and mechanically unchanged. However, Nissan renamed the trim levels to Nissan 180SX Type R and Nissan 180SX Type X (Type X was more advanced than Type R).

In May 1995, Nissan released the final facelift with a change of alloy, and added driver’s side airbags, along with other minor changes.

Final generation (1996- 1998)

The final iteration started in August 1996, it had minor changes in the design of the 180SX with tail lights, a revised front bumper, and 15-inch wheels. The safety features were also improved including seat belt pre-tensioners and driver's side airbags.

This generation offered 3 trim levels: Type X, S, and R. The Type S was the first 180SX offering without a turbocharged engine. Both Type X and Type R had many things in common like overall mechanical package and the engine that produced 202 horsepower.

The production of Type X and Type R ended in 1997 while that of the Type S and another added model named Type G continued production until December 1998 when the production of all 180SX ended.

Nissan 180SX: A Detailed Review

Before picking a Nissan 180SX for sale, it is essential to learn about some aspects of the car to make a better decision. The overall Nissan 180SX review from the experts and automobile devotees is positive. You just have to be sure whether the car fits your intended requirements:

Specification

Design 

At first sight, the Nissan 180SX looks similar to the Nissan Silvia S13 but they are 2 completely different models and sold at 2 separate Nissan dealerships. When mentioned about 180SX's design, it features a liftgate with different bodywork at the rear and pop-up headlamps which look quite cool and the S13 Silvia doesn’t have. 

The pop-up headlights, sharp lines along the body, and iconic taillights are some of the most recognizable design factors of the 180SX. 

Stepping inside the 180SX's interior, you will feel comfortable due to the combination of factors such as seating position, easy-to-reach controls, and a clear view of the instruments.

Engine and performance

The SR20DET is the main engine used in modern engines of 180SX however you can find the 1.8 L CA18DET engine in the older models (1989-1991). Nissan 180SX uses a 2.0 L turbocharged engine, with power outputs ranging from 204 PS at 6000 rpm to 250 PS at 6400 rpm and torque will start from 266 Nm to 280 Nm along with a rear-wheel drive system. This power can provide the 180SX with lively acceleration and engaging handling, making it a popular choice for enthusiasts and racers.

Safety features

Compared to modern cars, the Nissan 180SX lacks some advanced safety features like Electronic Stability Control (ESC) or passenger-side airbags. but it still ensures some standard features: ABS, driver's side airbag, or headrests...to make sure safety for drivers while traveling. 

Drifting

The 180SX has been one of the favorite cars for drifting purposes. The car has been used as a competition vehicle by many famous drifters such as Harnadi from Indonesia, Keilan Woods from the UK, Yoshinori Koguchi from Japan, and many more. Therefore, if you are planning to buy a drift car, a Nissan 180SX for sale will be a perfect choice for you.

Nissan 180SX price

Nowadays on the used car market, the price of Nissan 180SX used cars ranges from $9,000 to $42,000 depending on the model year, mileage as well as the condition of the car. For example, a 1996 Nissan 180SX for sale with low mileage and in good condition can cost you about US$ 37,519 while a 1995 model with high mileage can cost you a little bit over US$ 14,128.

The Difference Between The Nissan 180SX And The S13 Silvia

Nissan produced the 180SX as a sister model of the Nissan Silvia, but sold them at two separate Nissan dealerships. The Nissan 180SX was sold at Nissan Bluebird Store and the Silvia was sold at Nissan Prince Store. While in 1993 Nissan stopped producing the S13 Silvia, the production of the 180SX was kept continuing until 1998 (when the production of S14 ended).

The two cars have many things in common, except on some minor differences. While the 180SX features a liftgate with different body work at the rear and pop-up headlamps which look quite cool, the S13 Silvia doesn’t have. Additionally, the 180SX doesn’t offer CA18DE engine which is available in the S13.