Nissan Silvia CSP311
The first-generation Nissan Silvia CSP311 was a hand-built specialty coupe produced in tiny numbers. Introduced in 1965, it featured elegant notchback coupe styling influenced by Italian design trends, with a formal roofline and crisp body lines. Power came from a tuned 1.6-liter R-series OHV four producing 96 hp, providing adequate if not exciting performance. The Silvia was built on a modified Fairlady roadster platform with independent front suspension and live rear axle. Available as both coupe and convertible (even rarer), each car was essentially hand-assembled. Build quality was excellent but production costs were extremely high. With only 554 units built over three years - including just 48 convertibles - the original Silvia failed commercially but established the nameplate that would become legendary. The CSP311's biggest legacy was proving that Japanese manufacturers could build sophisticated specialty cars. Today, survivors are extremely valuable and sought after by collectors.
Exceptionally rare and valuable. Any survivor is significant. Convertibles are among the rarest Japanese classics. Verify authenticity carefully - only 554 were built with specific VIN ranges. Completeness is critical as replacement parts don't exist. Most restorations use fabricated panels. Budget $80k+ for comprehensive restoration. Expect six-figure values for restored examples. Most survivors are in Japan. Join Silvia registries for authentication. Consider as museum piece and investment. Professional inspection essential before purchase.