Nissan Silvia S12
The wedge-shaped pioneer of the modern S-chassis dynasty.
- Power
- 135 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 8.9 s
- Top speed
- 124 mph
- Est. value
- $7k–$22k
About the Nissan Silvia S12
The S12-generation Silvia represents a pivotal shift for Nissan's sports car lineage, introducing the sharp, wedge-shaped aesthetic and pop-up headlights that defined the 1980s. In 1.8 Turbo trim, it utilised the CA18ET engine, a SOHC unit that served as a precursor to the legendary DOHC CA and SR engines. While often overshadowed by the later S13, the S12 is prized by collectors for its pure 80s styling, rear-wheel-drive balance, and its role as a global platform sold as the 200SX in North America and Gazelle in Oceania. It remains a rare sight on modern roads, especially in original, unmodified condition.
Nissan Silvia S12 specs
The Nissan Silvia S12 produces 135 bhp (101 kW) and 191 Nm (141 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 8.9 seconds and has a top speed of 124 mph (200 km/h).
| Make | Nissan |
|---|---|
| Model | Silvia |
| Generation | S12 |
| Trim | 1.8 Turbo |
| Years | 1983–1988 |
| Type | Sports car |
| Body style | Coupé |
| Country | Japan |
| Original price | About $11,000 when new |
| Engine | 1.8-litre turbocharged inline-4 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,809 cc (1.8 litres) |
| Induction | Turbocharged |
| Power | 135 bhp (101 kW) at 6,000 rpm |
| Torque | 191 Nm (141 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 6,500 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 8.9 s |
| Top speed | 124 mph (200 km/h) |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,170 kg (2,579 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 115 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a Nissan Silvia S12 worth?
A typical Nissan Silvia S12 is estimated to be worth $6,500 – $22,000 (about £4,800 – £16,000).
Its original price when new was about $11,000.
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Nissan Silvia S12 rarity in CarSpot
The Nissan Silvia S12 is a Common card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 15 out of 100. Everyday cars you can spot on almost any street. A Common card is worth 10 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Nissan Silvia S12 fun facts
- The S12 was the first and only generation of the Silvia to be offered with a V6 engine, though this was exclusive to the North American 200SX SE.
- In Europe, a rare wide-body 'Grand Prix' edition was produced in extremely limited numbers, featuring flared arches inspired by Group B rally designs.
- The S12's hatchback variant was often compared to the Toyota AE86 due to its similar silhouette and rear-wheel-drive layout.
