Nissan 240 RS classic cars for sale

History of the Nissan 240 RS

In the early 1980s, Nissan created the 240 RS to participate in the brutal and competitive world of Group B rallying. Based on the Sylvia S110 platform, the car was extensively re-engineered to meet homologation rules, resulting in a competition machine that diverged radically from its road-going siblings. Nissan produced a small batch of homologation specials to allow the 240 RS to compete in the World Rally Championship, with production beginning in 1983.

Model History

The 240 RS derives from the S110 Nissan Sylvia platform but is a standalone model in the series due to its unique construction and motorsport-driven purpose. With a limited production run and clear separation from the standard Sylvia, the 240 RS neither had direct mainstream predecessors nor a direct successor, being replaced indirectly by the Group A Nissan 200SX (S12) after Group B's discontinuation.

Highlights of the Nissan 240 RS

The most unique feature of the 240 RS is its pure competition engineering: it utilises a naturally aspirated 2.4-litre DOHC FJ24 engine purpose-built for motorsport, paired only with a five-speed manual transmission and rear-wheel drive. With stripped-down interiors, lightweight body panels and a mechanical limited-slip differential, it prioritises performance and driver input over comfort. The car's market share within classic Nissan cars on our platform is 100%, both in available listings and buyer interest, underlining its exclusivity within the marque and among Group B homologation specials.

Technical Data

Special Editions and Collectible Models

The entire production run of the Nissan 240 RS qualifies as a special edition, since every unit was built for homologation purposes to satisfy rally regulations. No further limited editions or significant variants were produced, making every 240 RS inherently collectible.

Engine and Performance, Transmission and Handling

The 240 RS is focused on uncompromising performance. The FJ24 engine is known for high-revving power delivery and mechanical robustness, although it demands regular expert maintenance. With a lightweight chassis, unassisted steering and rear-wheel drive layout, handling is direct but requires skill, rewarding experienced drivers on twisty roads or circuits. The lack of modern driver aids adds to the raw, motorsport-inspired character of the car. Within the Nissan range, the 240 RS stands alone in combining rally homologation specs with rear-wheel drive and high-output, naturally aspirated four-cylinder engineering. There are no direct internal competitors in terms of concept or execution.

Interior, Comfort, Exterior and Design

Designed with rallying in mind, the 240 RS features functional aesthetics over luxury. The exterior sports widened fenders, lightweight alloy panels, and distinctive rally decals; the interior is stripped of comfort features, equipped instead with racing seats, basic controls and fundamental instrumentation. Options for special livery or competition equipment were common in the homologation process, further highlighting its motorsport roots. Accessory and comfort packages were not a priority, but cars occasionally feature period rally extras such as roll cages or auxiliary lamp pods.

Other Features

The 240 RS often includes chassis strengthening and period rally suspension upgrades. Survivors today may be modified with contemporary safety equipment or period-correct modifications, but originality is highly prized among collectors.

Summary

The Nissan 240 RS exists as a rare and authentic window into the Group B rally era. Built in minimal numbers, focused solely on motorsport homologation, every surviving example is both a technical testament to Nissan’s rally ambitions and a true enthusiast’s machine. Its exclusivity, raw performance, and unique history ensure it holds a distinct position in any classic car collection.