Sports Nissans: a complete guide to models with character

When it comes to sports cars, Nissan is one of the first brands that come to mind. Since the middle of the 20th century, the Japanese manufacturer has been creating cars that combine accessibility, reliability and driver's character. From cult Skyline And Silvia to the modern monster GT-R, sports Nissans have won the love of both street racers and collectors.

In this article we will look at all Nissan sports modelsthat have ever been produced - from mass-produced hot hatches to exclusive supercars. You will find out which engines are considered the most reliable for tuning, which models have already become rarities, and which are still available on the secondary market at an adequate price. We will pay special attention unique Nissan technical solutions, such as the ATTESA E-TS (electronically controlled all-wheel drive) and series engines RB, which are still used in drift cars around the world.

Legendary sports Nissans: from Skyline to GT-R

If we talk about sports heritage Nissan, it is impossible to bypass the ruler Skyline. These cars, produced since 1957, have gone from humble sedans to true supercars. Models with indexes are especially valued R32, R33 and R34 - they became the basis for the cult GT-R, who in Japan is called the "God of Cars" (Godzilla).

What makes these cars so special? Firstly, RB series engines - naturally aspirated and turbocharged in-line sixes that can easily withstand boost up to 500+ hp. Secondly, ATTESA E-TS all-wheel drive system, which in the R34 received improved electronics. Thirdly, body with ideal weight distribution (50:50), which makes the car predictable both on the track and in drifting.

• 🏁 Nissan Skyline GT-R R32 (1989-1994) - The first "Godzilla", winner of 29 consecutive races in the JTCC.
• 💨 Nissan Skyline GT-R R33 (1995–1998) - more comfortable, but heavier than its predecessor.
• 🔥 Nissan Skyline GT-R R34 (1999–2002) - the last of the classic GT-Rs, the hero of films and games.
• 🚀 Nissan GT-R R35 (2007–present) - a modern supercar with a 3.8-liter VR38DETT and 600+ hp. in top versions.

⚠️ Attention: Upon purchase Skyline GT-R R34 on the secondary market, be sure to check the mileage history - many copies have been in an accident or have “twisted” odometers. This is especially true for cars imported from Japan through the UAE.

Nissan Silvia: queen of drifting and tuning

Nissan Silvia — this is not just a car, but a real icon of drift culture. From 1964 to 2002, seven generations were released, but the most popular models were S13, S14 and S15. Their main trump cards are light body, rear wheel drive and engines SR20DET (2.0 l, turbo), which can easily withstand up to 400 hp. after tuning.

S15 (1999–2002) is considered the most balanced version: it has an improved suspension, a stiffer body and a factory power of 250 hp. (limited by Japanese regulations). On the secondary market, prices for S15 start from 1.5 million rubles, but copies in perfect condition can cost 2–3 times more.

Model	Years of manufacture	Engine	Power (drain)	Average price (2026, Russia)
Silvia S13	1988–1994	CA18DET / SR20DET	175–205 hp	800 000 – 1 500 000 ₽
Silvia S14	1993–1999	SR20DET	220 hp	1 200 000 – 2 000 000 ₽
Silvia S15	1999–2002	SR20DET	250 hp*	1 500 000 – 3 500 000 ₽
180SX (based on S13)	1988–1996	CA18DET / SR20DET	175–205 hp	900 000 – 1 800 000 ₽

*In Japan, power was limited by a “gentleman’s agreement” to 280 hp, but the real impact SR20DET in the S15 it’s closer to 250 hp.

Nissan 350Z and 370Z: Affordable V6 Sports Cars

Ruler Z is the answer Nissan on Toyota Supra And Mazda RX-7. Models 350Z (Z33, 2002–2009) And 370Z (Z34, 2009–2020) offer naturally aspirated engines VQ35DE (3.5 l) and VQ37VHR (3.7 l), respectively, rear-wheel drive and the classic “engine in front, gearbox in back” layout.

The 350Z is often called the "poor man's GT-R" - it is cheaper to maintain, but at the same time has excellent dynamics (0-100 km/h in 5.8 seconds in the top version). The 370Z received a more modern design, improved suspension and system SynchroRev Match (automatic accelerator when changing gears). Both models are great for track days and street tuning.

• 🔧 Pros of the 350Z/370Z: reliable engine VQ, simple design, large selection of spare parts.
• ⚠️ Cons: high fuel consumption (12–15 l/100 km), rigid suspension in everyday use.
• 💰 Prices (2026): 350Z - from 1 million rubles, 370Z - from 1.8 million rubles.

Nissan 200SX (S12) and 240SX (S13/S14): forgotten heroes

In the 1980s–1990s Nissan produced compact sports coupes under the name 200SX (for Europe) and 240SX (for USA). These machines are built on the basis Silvia, but have their own characteristics. For example, S12 (1983–1988) equipped with engines CA18ET (turbo) and CA20E (atmo), as well as an all-wheel drive system in the version 200SX RS-X.

In the USA 240SX S13/S14 became an iconic drift car thanks to its rear-wheel drive, lightweight body and engine KA24E/DE (2.4 l, 155–160 hp). These models are rare today, but can be found for prices ranging from 800,000 to 1.5 million rubles. The main plus is ease of tuning: many people put it instead of their native one KA24 engines SR20DET or even 1JZ/2JZ from Toyota.

⚠️ Attention: When swapping an engine on 240SX S13 be sure to strengthen the subframe - the standard design is not designed for power exceeding 300 hp.

Nissan Pulsar GTi-R: rally compact with a turbo engine

Few people remember, but in 1990–1994 Nissan produced a “hot hatchback” Pulsar GTi-R (RNN14) - three-door with a turbo engine SR20DET (227 hp) and all-wheel drive. This car was created to participate in Group A of the World Rally Championship and became one of the fastest production hatchbacks of its time (0–100 km/h in 5.4 s).

Today GTi-R - rarity: most copies were stolen or broken in races. On the secondary market, prices start from 2.5 million rubles, but finding a car in good condition is extremely difficult. Main problems - body corrosion and wear of the all-wheel drive transmission.

Why is the Pulsar GTi-R so expensive?

This model was produced for only 4 years, and most of the cars were operated in extreme conditions. Today, fewer than 1,000 examples survive worldwide, making the GTi-R a collector's item.

Modern sports Nissans: from Juke Nismo to Z Proto

In the last decade Nissan released several interesting sports models, albeit not as legendary as Skyline or Silvia:

• 🏎️ Nissan Juke Nismo/Nismo RS (2013–2019) - a crossover with a 1.6-liter turbo engine (200–218 hp) and a rigid suspension.
• 🔥 Nissan 370Z Nismo (2013–2020) - “charged” version with 350 hp, improved cooling and aerokit.
• 🚗 Nissan Leaf Nismo (2018–present) - electric hatchback with sports suspension and external tuning.
• 💡 Nissan Z Proto (2022–present) - concept of a new Z-car with a 3.0-liter twin-turbo VR30DDTT (400 hp).

Stands apart Nissan GT-R Nismo - top version of the R35 with 600 hp, lightweight body and suspension settings from Nismo (Nissan's racing division). Price new GT-R Nismo in Russia starts from 12 million rubles, but on the secondary market you can find copies for 6–8 million.

Which sporty Nissan should you choose in 2026?

The choice depends on your budget and goals:

• 💰 Budget up to 1 million ₽: Silvia S13, 240SX S13, 350Z (early versions).
• 💵 Budget 1.5–3 million ₽: Silvia S14/S15, Skyline GT-R R32/R33 (verified copies), 370Z.
• 💎 Budget 5+ million ₽: Skyline GT-R R34, GT-R R35, Pulsar GTi-R.

The best choice for drifting is Silvia S14/S15 or 180SX. For the track - 350Z/370Z or GT-R R35. For the collection - Skyline GT-R R34 or Pulsar GTi-R.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about Nissan sports cars

Which Nissan engine is best for tuning?

The most popular engines for boosting:

• SR20DET (Silvia, 180SX, Pulsar GTi-R) - withstands up to 500 hp. on the stock block.
• RB26DETT (Skyline GT-R) - the legendary “six” with a potential of 800+ hp.
• VQ35DE/VQ37VHR (350Z/370Z) - Reliable V6, but expensive to tune.
• CA18DET (S13, 180SX) - simple and cheap, but limited in power (~300 hp).

Often used for drifting 1JZ/2JZ from Toyota (swap in Silvia or 240SX).

How much does it cost to service a Nissan GT-R R35?

Service GT-R R35 costs more than conventional machines:

• Changing oil and filters - ~15,000 ₽ (every 5,000–8,000 km).
• Replacement of brake pads and discs - ~50,000–80,000 RUR.
• Repair of turbines (with a mileage of 100,000+ km) - from 200,000 ₽.
• Clutch replacement - ~100,000–150,000 RUR.

Main expense items - turbines (lifetime ~100,000 km) and transmission (box GR6 requires careful handling).

Is it possible to legally import the Skyline GT-R R34 into Russia?

Yes, but with reservations:

• Cars older than 30 years (before 1994) can be imported as retro car with simplified design.
• Models 1995–2002 require vehicle type approval (VTA), which is difficult and expensive.
• Many R34s are imported through Belarus or Kazakhstan with subsequent customs clearance in the EAEU.

The cost of legalization can reach 500 000–1 000 000 ₽ depending on the import method.

What sports cars are Nissan planning to release in the future?

The following have been announced for 2026–2026:

• Nissan Z (RZ34) - serial version Z Proto with 3.0 twin-turbo (400 hp).
• Nissan 400Z Nismo — a “charged” version of the new Z-car (450+ hp expected).
• Electric sports crossover based on Ariya (concept Ariya Nismo).

There are also rumors about the return of the name Silvia in the form of an electric sports car, but there is no official confirmation yet.

Where is the best place to find parts for older Nissans?

Main sources:

• 🇯🇵 Japanese showdown (For example, Amayama, JDM Buyer) - original spare parts at reasonable prices.
• 🇷🇺 Russian stores (Nissan-Parts, Jap-Zap) - fast delivery, but prices are higher.
• 🇺🇸 American sites (Enjuku Racing, Z1 Motorsports) - tuning parts for Silvia, 240SX, Z-cars.
• 🇪🇺 European auctions (eBay Kleinanzeigen, Mobile.de) - used units from Germany and the Netherlands.

For rare models (for example, Pulsar GTi-R) spare parts often have to be ordered on order or looked for at Japanese auctions (Yahoo! Auctions Japan).