2001 Nissan 200SX Spec R review from Australia and New Zealand

Nothing major so far apart from a few squeaks and rattles around the sunroof and the shroud above the steering wheel. These only happened after about 30,000k's and both problems were fixed promptly by the dealer under warranty.

This is my second 200SX after previously owing an S14 model for 4 trouble free years.

It's an absolutely brilliant car to drive and leaves you with a smile everytime you get out of it especially if the road is nice and twisty.

The Limited Slip Diff puts the power to the ground brilliantly out of tight corners and the six speed gearbox is a delight to use.

The handling is superb although some caution is required in the wet as with any high powered RWD car. It's a much more predictable car to drive in the wet when compared to the S14 model which was more akin to a dog on lino!

The SR20DET engine must be up there with one of the best turbo engines of all time. Very little turbo lag and it pulls strongly from about 2500rpm.

Gripes: Whilst the seats are comfortable there is nothing in the way of adjustments plus there isn't much head room if you are 6ft or over. The Spec S without the sunroof has slightly more headroom.

There is very limited rear seating, but hey it's not a family car!

The cockpit is very comfortable with everything in easy reach - I just completed a 4500km round trip to Adelaide from Sydney in 10days and had no problems with comfort.

There is no cruise control standard so it is worthwhile fitting an aftermarket one - best $500 I ever spent.

Overall this is seriously the best car I have ever owned and I hope to hang on to it for a long while yet.