Nissan Silvia Classic Cars for Sale

History of the Nissan Silvia

The Nissan Silvia represents a remarkable lineage in Japanese sports car development, first appearing on the market as a compact rear-wheel-drive coupé. In export markets, the Silvia was often rebadged as the 200SX or 240SX, even bearing the Datsun brand name in earlier years. Distinctive for its balance of sporty character and approachable handling, the Silvia’s design and technology evolved to match stricter regulations in its home market, resulting in more compact body dimensions over time. The series continued to build its reputation through numerous motorsport involvements and became an enthusiast favourite for tuners and collectors alike.

Model Series Development

The Silvia’s saga began in the 1960s, with the model evolving through several generations including the S12 and S15. The S12 dominated the market share among Silvia listings, accounting for 75% of all supply and garnering 100% of demand, according to current Classic Trader statistics. The S15, introduced at the end of the 1990s, achieved iconic status in its home market and is especially notable as the basis for ultra-rare variants like the Varietta. The S15 was produced primarily for Japan, Australia, and New Zealand, with other markets only accessing the model via grey import.

Highlights of the Nissan Silvia Series

One of the defining features of the Nissan Silvia range is the introduction of the Varietta model in the S15 series. With only 1,143 units ever built, the Varietta stands as an example of Nissan’s experimentation with electric folding hardtops—engineered by specialist Autech. The Silvia is also noted for its engine options: the naturally aspirated 2.0-litre four-cylinder SR20DE in the Spec-S, and the turbocharged SR20DET in the Spec-R, offering approximately 163 PS and 247 PS, respectively. Both models could be specified with performance-oriented "Aero" bodywork. Factory options such as leather-trim seating with heaters and an innovative heads-up display highlight the Silvia’s blend of technical ambition and comfort.

In terms of availability, 75% of all Silvias offered come from the S12 range, and they also attract the entire demand in the segment, illustrating a clear market preference for this generation compared to the S15, which accounts for 25% supply and receives little demand among current listings.

Technical Data

Special Editions and Collectible Models

The standout special edition in the Silvia range is the S15 Varietta, with only 1,143 examples produced. This model was elevated by Autech’s involvement, receiving an electrically operated folding hardtop, making it unique among its peers. The Varietta was offered exclusively with the Spec-S trim’s naturally aspirated SR20DE engine. Both Spec-S and Spec-R S15s could also be configured with the rare "Aero" package, featuring prominent spoilers, side skirts, and enhanced body details.

Engine and Performance, Transmission and Handling

The Silvia’s driving experience is defined by its front-engined, rear-wheel-drive chassis and well-balanced weight distribution. The S15 Spec-R, with its 247 PS turbocharged SR20DET, delivers lively acceleration and precise handling, especially appreciated in enthusiast circles for both road use and aftermarket tuning. The Spec-S, powered by the naturally aspirated 2.0-litre unit, offers a more refined yet still engaging drive. Convertible models like the Varietta add the experience of open-top motoring with their innovative hardtops. Manual and automatic transmissions were both available, allowing for a degree of personalisation in driving character. - S12 (75% market availability, 100% demand): Regarded for its classic, angular styling and solid build, remains highly sought amongst Silvia enthusiasts.

• S15 Varietta (Highly limited): Renowned for its rare electric hardtop and tight coupe dimensions, aimed exclusively at the Japanese domestic market and only found elsewhere as imports.

Interior, Comfort, Exterior and Design

The Silvia’s design reflects the priorities of Japanese sports car culture, combining low-slung proportions with practicality in a 2-door coupé shell. S15 models, particularly with the Aero package, sport prominent rear wings, sculpted side skirts, and distinctive side sills. The Varietta variant gains a unique silhouette thanks to its retractable hardtop by Autech. Leather seating, optional seat heaters, and heads-up displays demonstrate Nissan’s intent to integrate comfort and technology. The wheel hubs with a 5x114.3 pattern signal compatibility with a wide range of performance alloys, another nod to customisation enthusiasts.

Other Notable Details

Many Silvias for export markets were rebadged as 200SX or 240SX, while some early models were even sold as Datsuns. Nissan’s internal specialist, Autech, played a central role in developing the Varietta, setting it apart from standard coupé and convertible models in the brand’s classic line-up.

Summary

For those searching for an authentically engineered Japanese sports coupé, the Nissan Silvia series—especially the S12 and S15 Varietta—offers unique technical solutions, lasting build quality, and collector-grade rarity in certain configurations. Classic Trader currently evidences a strong focus on S12 models for both buyers and sellers, confirming its role as the preferred generation within enthusiast circles.