Chassis Code Explained
| Segment | Meaning | Detail |
|---|---|---|
| S | Model series | S — Silvia S-chassis platform family |
| 110 | Generation code | 110 — second-generation Silvia (1979–1983) |
The S110 (1979–1983) used the Z20 2.0L inline-4; it reintroduced the Silvia nameplate after an 11-year gap. Exported as the Datsun 200SX in some markets; the CA18 engines had not yet appeared in the Silvia lineup.
Key Takeaways
- March 1979 launch — Nissan identifies the S110 as the third-generation Silvia
- RS with FJ20 — Nissan says the RS version arrived in April 1982
- Safari Rally result — Nissan records an export-specification LZ20B S110 third overall in 1982
Technical Specifications
Engine Options
| Chassis | Engine | Displacement | Power — JDM | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| S110 | Z20E | 2.0L | 110hp @ 5200rpm (estimated) | EFI; market-dependent rating |
| S110 | Z18ET | 1.8L | 135hp @ 6000rpm (estimated) | Turbo; market-dependent rating |
Livability
- Headroom
- 36.5"
- Helmet/headroom tight with sunroof or low seats
- Rear Seats
- Small 2+2
- Adults fit short trips; legroom is poor
- Cargo
- 7-9 cu ft
- Trunk usable; strut brace/spare eats space
Variants & Trims
| Generation | Trim | Engine | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| S110 (Silvia/Gazelle) | Silvia ZSE-X | Z20E | EFI, 5MT/3AT, sport interior |
| S110 (Silvia/Gazelle) | Silvia ZSE | Z20E | EFI, 5MT/3AT, comfort trim |
| S110 (Silvia/Gazelle) | Gazelle Turbo | Z18ET | Turbo, 5MT, sport suspension |
Should You Buy a Nissan Silvia S110?
Why You'll Love It
- Safari Rally third overall Nissan says an export-specification S110 with the LZ20B engine finished third overall in the 1982 Safari Rally.
Who Should NOT Buy This
- Anyone needing reliable daily transport
- Buyers without a JDM-specialist shop nearby
- People who can’t wrench or pay to wrench
- Rust-belt buyers without indoor storage
- Drivers over 6'2" (helmeted track use)
- Anyone expecting modern crash safety
- Emissions-strict state residents (legal risk)
- People who hate modified-car troubleshooting
Generation History
S110 Silvia (1979-1983)
- Early FR coupe; niche following
- Less drift demand than later S-chassis
Market Data
Production Numbers & Rarity
| Generation | Years | Total Built | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| S110 | 1979-1983 | unknown (estimated) | Shared with Gazelle; data limited |
Comparable Alternatives
Nissan 350Z
Modern FR coupe; easier US sourcing; strong aftermarket
Toyota GT86/BRZ
Light FR handling focus; newer, easier to insure/finance
BMW E36 328i/325i
FR balance; cheap parts; great drift/grip platform
Nissan 180SX
Same S-chassis DNA; hatch practicality; similar drift demand
The Buyer's Read
Nissan identifies the S110 as the third-generation Silvia, launched in March 1979. The RS version with the FJ20 engine arrived in April 1982. Nissan's Heritage Collection also records an export-specification LZ20B S110 third overall in the 1982 Safari Rally.
Frequently Asked Questions
- When was the S110 launched?
- Nissan identifies the S110 as the third-generation Silvia and says it launched in March 1979.
- When did the FJ20-powered RS arrive?
- Nissan says the RS version, with the FJ20 engine, was launched in April 1982.
Sources & References
Sources (11)
- Nissan Silvia — encyclopedic overview — Wikipedia Verified
- Nissan Silvia — Japanese encyclopedic overview — Wikipedia (Japanese) Verified
- Nissan 180SX — encyclopedic overview — Wikipedia Verified
- Nissan 240SX — encyclopedic overview — Wikipedia Verified
- Nissan SR engine family — technical reference — Wikipedia Verified
- Nissan Heritage Collection — Nissan Motor Corporation Verified
- S13 owners' pros and cons discussion thread — NICOclub forums Verified
- List of common 240SX problems — community knowledge base — NICOclub forums Verified
- Nissan Silvia editorial coverage — Car Throttle Verified
- Nissan Silvia editorial coverage (secondary) — Car Throttle Verified
- Nissan Silvia design evolution — Motor1 Moved
Sources last verified: