One of the biggest changes to the S15 model of the Silvia fitted with the 6-speed manual transmission built by Aisin AI was the implementation of a helical limited slip differential. The S15 featured the same 4-piston front brake calipers that were found in the Z32 300ZX but included a larger brake booster. The Spec-R also included extensive chassis and suspension strengthening via the use of larger anti-roll bars and strut bracing. The Spec-R differed from previous Silvia models by featuring a 6-speed manual gearbox as well as a 4-speed automatic transmission. Nissan's worldwide sports car platform is now the FM platform, which underpins the current Fairlady Z (the 350/ 370Z outside Japan), as well as the 2001–present Nissan Skyline (the Infiniti G35/ 37 in North America). The S15 Silvia was therefore the last car to hold the Silvia badge. Production of the Silvia ended amidst Nissan's efforts to reduce its myriad of platforms. Main differences here were namely the wheels being finished in a silver shadow chrome, chrome interior door handles, chrome gear selector surround, 'sports' metal pedal set and an updated larger rear wing.Īs of August 2002, Nissan stopped producing the S platform with the S15-series Nissan Silvia being the final variant. These two models were available at Nissan showrooms until the Nissan 200SX GT was introduced in 2002, the last year of production for the S15. Nissan S15s were never officially sold with the naturally aspirated SR20DE engine in Australia or New Zealand. Within the Australian domestic market (AUDM), the S15 sold in 2 trim levels as noted above Spec-S and Spec-R - however both models featured the SR20DET motor, albeit slightly detuned from the JDM spec cars.

In Australia and New Zealand the car was sold as the Nissan 200SX.

This generation of the Silvia was only sold in Japan, Australia and New Zealand but was available as a grey import in most other countries. The S15 Silvia model lineup was initially simplified to just the Spec-Sand Spec-R, both models offering an 'Aero' variant with a large rear wingand side skirts/valances. The body dimensions were reduced from the previous generation so that it would comply with Japanese Government compact class, which had an effect on sales of the previous model. The S15 Silvia included aggressive styling inside and out, updating the previous Silvia styling in-line with modern car design trends. The SR20DE (non-turbo motor) featured 165 hp (121 kW). Japan saw a new version of the Silvia (S15) in 1999, now boasting 250 hp (184 kW) from its SR20DET engine, thanks to a ball-bearing turbocharger upgrade, as well as improved engine management.

Nissan silvi series difference