Used Car Buying Guide: 4car Buying Guide

It's a Nissan, and the 200SX (or Silvia, as it is called in Japan) is generally as reliable as a common-or-garden Micra. Well built, usually bought new by sensible middle-aged people who maintain their cars properly, a nearly-new 200SX is a relatively risk-free purchase, although older models have started to fall into the hands of the boy racers - there's a fair few thrashed and trashed ones about, so take care. There are also a lot which have undergone radical modifications and engine upgrades  some more successful than others.

The 200SX now looks its age, although many buyers like its anonymity and the fact that it did without the in-yer-face spoilers, bodykits and enlarged headlamps that most of its ilk have these days. And if you want all those things, too, you might as well buy a Skyline (see separate page).

The 200SX shares many of the Skyline's abilities and credentials - sharp handling, loads of grip, powerful acceleration - but it's got good old-fashioned rear-wheel drive rather than a sophisticated 4wd system, which means it can be a bit of a handful in the wet. It's one of Japan's best-kept performance secrets; the 200 bhp turbo engine delivers 0-60 acceleration in 7.5 seconds and is a lot more refined than the 167 bhp unit fitted to the 1989-94 series car. Standard equipment from launch included ABS, limited-slip differential, driver's airbag, five-spoke alloy wheels, electric windows and mirrors, remote central locking, velour upholstery and headlamp washers. Manual and automatic versions were offered. The Touring option pack adds air-conditioning, passenger airbag, full leather interior, CD autochanger and body kit. Both models have a discreet rear spoiler and they were all slightly restyled in October 1996.

Heavy depreciation (loss in value) from new meant that the 200SX/Silvia has always been a lot of car for the money on the second-hand market.

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