Nissan 200 SX 1.8 3d (1989/G) Owner Review
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Economy
Value
HUGE performance for the money. RWD fun at it's best.
Costs
Most parts have to come from Nissan and are frighteningly expensive. Main dealer servicing is tragic by most people's standards. Some good independent specialists around, though, but choose carefully. Expect 24-30mpg depending on how you drive.
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On the road
Driving
Fantastically rewarding drive - beautifully balanced, loads of feedback, dry grip is prodigious. Beware of oversteer in the wet - it will bite you if you push too hard out of a corner. Engine is carried over from Silvia and can be a little harsh.
Performance
Wolf in sheeps clothing - 165bhp as standard, with potential for MUCH more (I've driven one with 608bhp - scary and not recommended!). Eats XR's, RS's, GTi's etc. for breakfast. Accelleration over 2,500rpm has be felt to be believed! Beware in the wet!
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Living with it
Reliability
I may have been unlucky, but this has been the most unreliable car I've ever owned - engine, gearbox and chassis have all given problems and been expensive to fix. Disappointing for a Japanese car.
Image
Pretty, understated lines still turn heads. Beats rival Toyota Celica hands down. Some really dodgy body kits out there, though! Shame they never made a convertible version...
Comfort
Good side bolster support from seats, but generally not the most comfortable - certainly won't suit everyone. Nice driving position, but limited rear visibility due to steeply raked screen and thick pillars. Rear seat is a joke for anyone over 4' 6"".
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Security and Service
Security
Surprisingly, S13 200SX isn't favoured by joyriders, but standard security is poor so if they wanted it, they could have it easily unless you fit an alarm. Thatcham approved alarm/immobiliser a very good idea.
Service
Dealers always helpful and knowledgable, but prices far too high. DIY servicing is realistic - invest in the Nissan S13 manual it's well worth it. Choose independents carfully as bodged servicing can lead to BIG bills later. Engine needs fully-synth oil.
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Problems and Ownership
Problems
Engine
Broken piston rings misdiagnosed by specialist as failed turbo resutling in £500 for unnecessary turbo rebuilt, followed by £1,200 for engine rebore/rebuild with oversize pistons/rings etc. And that was parts only as I did the work myself!
Other
Too many niggling problems to list. Beautiful car and great fun to drive, but let down by build quality and engineering.
Ownership
Did you buy the car new?
Used
Would you buy the same model again?
No
Did you buy from the same manufacturer again?
No