Nissan 200SX 1994-2000

The scarcity of sporty rear drive coupes has generated a flood of grey imports but the Nissan 200SX is one of the few that was sold locally to give you half a chance of finding out what it has been through. Proving that you can't judge a book by its cover, Joe Kenwright looks at the wealth of technology and ability hidden under the unassuming 200SX's exterior.

HISTORY: Seriously quick plain wrapper sports car remained faithful to Silvia/Gazelle rear drive bloodline after Celica rival became a soft shoe front drive Camry coupe. Smooth but bland three-box styling hides a slick multi-link rear suspension based on Skyline and 300ZX. Turbocharged version of twin-cam multi-valve 2.0-litre is from Pulsar SSS but rotated 90 degrees to feed the rear wheels.

Returned to Aussie market late in 1994 badged as 200SX with stripper Sports Limited and ABS-equipped Sports and Luxury levels. Series II upgrade in October 1996 added front with attitude. Aussie success not enough to keep the next 200SX alive leaving exclusive used niche from now on.

PRICES: Early examples over 100,000km sell under $20,000 while last Luxury models with full body kit, CD, airbags and ABS in mint, low km condition can still top $30,000 but only with verifiable local history.

POTENTIAL PROBLEMS

Engine: Hard-edged 200SX driver focus delivers firmer ride and feel than pretender rivals hence original shopping trolley buyers quit them early. Model now has cult status as serious driver's car ready for competition drifting. Many already seriously thrashed with engine chips and turbos boosted beyond factory durability levels.

Serious 147 kW engine boasts all-alloy construction including oil pan, sodium cooled exhaust valves, spray oil cooling for pistons, chain driven camshafts with variable inlet valve timing and fast response turbo with intercooler. Almost bulletproof, it can die with poor quality oil and coolant or forgotten changes for big dollar repairs.

Despite knock sensor, it needs the best fuel you can feed it. Weeping head gaskets, blocked oil spray jets, cooked valve stem seals, noisy turbo bearings, cracked or split exhaust manifolds are main worries on abused examples

Interior: Check interior fittings and controls as some electrics fail including heater fans. First local cars came only in red, white, burgundy, blue and grey. Bodysides prone to parking dings. Watch out for dodgy imports carrying identity of local wreck. Can you insure it? High desirability makes lock-up storage and custom alarm essential.

Suspension: Fine suspension tuning is sensitive to tyre choice. Original tyres were V-rated Yokohamas. Viscous rear limited slip diff works well but you need some skill if you must access the grunt in the wet. Allow plenty of room when exploring the limits if switching from front drive.

Tyres: Suspension can generate uneven inner tread wear especially if lowered with wider wheels. Regular four wheel alignments are a must. Dampers and suspension bushes may need upgrading by now. Five stud wheel pattern a vast improvement over earlier 180SX four stud imports but check for broken wheel studs if you suspect hard usage with oversized tyres.

Transmission: Manual is a better match for turbo engine but auto still delivers plenty of lift. Clutch binding and slip and worn synchros can appear when thrashed or if the engine is tweaked. Check for excessive driveline lash.

Brakes: Superb four pot front brakes cost plenty if fluid changes overlooked. Check for undersized rotors front and rear.