Nissan Silvia (1983)TTTNIS, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons

Nissan Silvia S12

1983 — Japan

Malaise Era (1975-1985)Sports CarJapaneseTurbo/SuperchargedRally LegendsUnder $50k ClassicsAffordable CollectiblesBarn Find Candidates
Engine1,809 cc Inline-4 SOHC Turbo
Power135 hp
Torque131 lb-ft
Transmission5-speed manual
DrivetrainRWD
Body StyleCoupe
Weight2,568 lbs
0–60 mph7.8 sec
Top Speed124 mph
Production202,340 units
Original MSRP$12,799
BrakesDisc / Disc
SuspensionIndependent, MacPherson strut / Semi-trailing arm, coil springs

Nissan Silvia S12

Nissan's S12 Silvia adopted sharp-edged 1980s design language and introduced turbocharging to the Silvia lineup with the CA18ET engine. Available with pop-up headlights or fixed lights depending on market, the S12 offered a compelling mix of style and performance. While often overshadowed by the S13 and S14 that followed, the S12 established the turbocharged four-cylinder formula that would define later Silvias and became an affordable platform for modification.

$8,000 – $22,000

Turbo models are rare in USA. Check for rust in rear quarters and hatch area. Verify turbo functionality. Most have been modified. Pop-up headlight mechanism often requires repair.

Available with both pop-up and fixed headlights depending on market. US market received naturally aspirated version only. Japanese market got CA18ET turbo.