Nissan 240SX
Nissan 240SX
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Nissan 240SX

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Nissan 240SX

The Nissan 240SX is a sports compact car that was introduced to the North American market by Nissan in 1988 for the 1989 model year. It replaced the outgoing 200SX (S12) model. Most of the 240SXs were equipped with the 2.4-liter inline-four engine (KA24E from 1989 to 1990 and KA24DE from 1990 to 1998). The KA24E had a single overhead cam and the KA24DE had dual overhead cams. Two distinct generations of the 240SX, the S13 (1989–1994) the S14 (1994-1998) were produced, based on the Nissan S platform.

The 240SX is closely related to other S platform based vehicles, such as the Japanese-market Silvia and 180SX, and the European-market 200SX. Although their names are similar, the 240SX is unrelated to the 240Z or the 280ZX.

The 240SX is known for its popularity within drifting and tuner culture. However, due to the popularity of the S-chassis in drifting and related competitions, prices for vehicles and parts have greatly increased due to higher demand. This problem is sometimes known as "drift tax".

The first generation of the 240SX can be divided into two distinct versions: the hatchback, which was offered in base, SE, and LE trims, and the coupé, which was offered in base, XE, LE and SE trims. Both styles shared the same front bodywork as the Japanese-market Nissan 180SX, featuring the sloping front with pop-up headlights. This front bodywork distinguishes the coupé model from its Japanese-market counterpart, the Silvia, which featured fixed headlights. Both styles in all markets share the same chassis, and with few exceptions, most components and features are identical. A convertible model built by ASC was offered late in the first generation 240SX's lifespan from 1993 to 1994 and was based on the coupé models.

1989 and 1990 models are powered by a naturally aspirated 140 hp (104 kW), 152 lb⋅ft (206 N⋅m) 2,389 cc (2.4 L; 145.8 cu in) SOHC KA24E four-cylinder engine with three valves per cylinder (instead of the turbocharged and intercooled 1.8-liter DOHC CA18DET offered in Japan and Europe in the 180SX and Silvia). When tested by Car and Driver, the SOHC 240SX achieved a 0-60 mph (97 km/h) time of 8.6 seconds and a quarter mile time of 16.4 seconds at 83 mph (134 km/h). Four-wheel disc brakes were standard, with anti-lock brakes available as an option on the SE. Both models were offered with either a 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmission. Coupes offered a Heads-up display (HUD) with a digital speedometer as part of the optional Power Convenience Group.

The 240SX received some updates in 1991. The matte silver, teardrop wheels were replaced by polished aluminium 7-spoke wheels that had better brake cooling properties but more drag. The nose was smoothed out by getting rid of the non-functional slots and gave back the aerodynamic efficiencies lost by the wheels. This gave the car an overhaul that included a minor update of the exterior and a new cylinder head. A new "LE" hatchback trim package was added that included leather interior. The SOHC KA24E was replaced by the DOHC KA24DE, now with 4 valves per cylinder, rated at 155 bhp (157 PS; 116 kW) at 5,600 rpm and 160 lb⋅ft (217 N⋅m) of torque at 4,400 rpm. When tested by Car and Driver, the DOHC 240SX achieved a 0-60 mph (97 km/h) time of 7.9 seconds and a quarter mile time of 16.2 seconds at 84 mph (135 km/h). An optional sports package including ABS, a limited-slip differential, and Nissan's HICAS four-wheel steering was now available on hatchback models.

The 240SX was praised by journalists for sharp steering and handling (thanks to front MacPherson struts and a rear multilink suspension) and relatively light weight, but was regarded in the automotive press as being underpowered. The engine, while durable and relatively torquey, was a heavy iron-block truck unit that produced meager power for its relatively large size. It was only modestly improved by the change to the DOHC version in 1991. Furthermore, despite the modest power output, relatively low weight, and good aerodynamics, gas mileage was mediocre. These engines are the primary difference between the North American 240SX and the international-market Silvia/180SX/200SX. The KA24DE did not come turbocharged while the CA18DET and SR20DET did. Other differences include a standard limited-slip differential on overseas and Canadian models, available digital climate control in Japan, and manual seat belts standard in Japan and Canada vs. automatic restraint seatbelts in the U.S.

The second generation 240SX was released in the spring of 1994 as a 1995 model. The hatchback and convertible body styles were eliminated, leaving only the coupe. The wheelbase of the car grew 2 in (51 mm) and the track width was also increased, while the overall length of the vehicle was slightly shorter than the previous generation. The curb weight of the vehicle increased by about 80 lb (36 kg) relative to the 1994 model. In this generation, every 240SX was built in Kyūshū, Japan.

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