1996 Nissan 200SX SE-R review from North America
"Very fun and VERY inexpensive corner carver"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Alternator at 80k fixed myself in driveway, same time as:
Radiator at 80k.
EGR tube at 90k (dealer repair, $250)
Numerous rattles beginning at about 90k, sunroof shade, dash, door panels (I'll take the blame on those)
Driver's seat padding failing at 110k.
General comments?
Test drove same night as a 96 Miata, mainly drove the Nissan to show how much better the Miata was, wound up buying the Nissan.
Above average acceleration, handling, Limited Slip differential helps, has Kumho Ecsta summer high performance tires, all stock suspension (at the moment).
Insurance high for young male, but I guess that's to be expected.
Still getting over 30MPG on trips, 25-30 on daily driver cycle.
Engine still as tight as day I bought it, thanks to Mobil 1 5w30 oil.
Suspension starting to show age, as is interior, will likely begin upgrading suspension in spring as well as addressing rattles in cabin.
I've owned 10 cars, mainly Italian, and keep most less than a year. I've considered selling this car on several occasions, but it's paid off and has been so fun and so reliable I'm afraid to get anything different. Still not tired of it after nearly four years. I haven't driven anything that comes close to the all around abilities of this car for anywhere near what I've paid for it. I figure once I get the suspension fixed (springs, KYB shocks, sway bar end-links) and the interior issues addressed, it'll be good for another 100k.
Recommended reviews
| Fine budget car, but look at the Infiniti G20 |
| I would never buy this car again |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Year of manufacture | 1996 |
| First year of ownership | 2000 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2004 |
| Engine and transmission | 2.0 gas four cylinder Manual |
| Performance marks | 8 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 10 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 7 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 6 / 10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 10 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 61000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 120000 miles |
| Previous car | Toyota Tercel |
| Date of Entry | 20th February, 2004 |