Long time 240sx owners (10 years or so)

[nightwalker]

There are a fair amount of long term 240 owners in here. We've pretty much grown up with our 240s and have literally watched the scene change many times over. I'm just curious to hear your opinions on it; how it's changed, what you consider bad, good, and what you think the future holds for the beloved S chassis cars. Thanks. (Please keep it mature)

[zombiewolf513]

I've had 6 240sx over the past 12 years. My opinion on them now is: keep it stock and relish it. Modification is overplayed anymore. The future is looking grim in terms of finding a good or even fair condition one in stock form IMO.

Great idea for a thread!

EDIT:
http://s22.postimg.org/hvhxd3dw1/IMG_0705.jpg

[DrftKingIII]

Bought my first S13 when I was 14, now 11 years later I'm starting over with a new chassis and modifying it in OEM+ ways and learning from what I didn't like on my last couple of 240's.

Ten years ago, owning a 240 was, in my opinion, kind of a respectable thing. Nowadays they're the new Honda Civic. Majority of today's owners are Hooniganbros who think it's "cool" to spray paint them, bash them up, and call themselves drifters. It's sad, really, but I think we all predicted it when drifting really went mainstream in the US.

Car culture is a lot different now anyways. It seems like everyone just does shit to impress strangers on the internet and up their follower count, not modifying their cars to suit their personal goals/needs like we used to. No one has any interest in the roots of drifting, much less just to have fun. Everyone just wants to build a competition car that far exceeds their driving abilty.

I'm only 25, but I feel like an old fart in a lot of ways. I used to want to help new S-Chassis owners with their builds, provide insight, and whatnot. Now, I generally hate the majority of them. I dunno.

[mogli9000]

10 year owner

Owned about 100+ 240sx's in that time span. Currently own 4 240's ranging from 1,000hp hatch to a rolling shell. On top of my other non s chassis cars.

When I first started in High school, 240's were considered "baller" import cars. If you saw a JDM inspired/modified s13 or s14 then you knew that guy was doing something right. I saw my first widebody s14 and fell in love. Picked my first zenki up for 5k. Cash. 180k miles, salvaged, decent condition. Took me 6 months to find it. (At the time it was a good deal since stock clean SE zenkis were going for like 6-8k)

At first the community was great. I was a noob and had many older guys help me with trouble shooting and issues. Everyone was a group and stuck together. Huge bbq's, meets, and even parties with people from Zilvia. Don't get me wrong, zipties were still a focus back then. Everyone was just more legit about how they built their cars.

I linked up and met many of my friends through the 240sx community. All of whom I see still today at car events or car business related stuff.

Nowadays its just a bunch of poor kids with no morals or self respect. They encourage stupidity and ghetto behavior. Street drifting during the day. Godspeed is the best. I love zip ties. JB Weld is the only option.

I stopped working on 240's for customers because of this. Its a great feeling not having to touch an utter piece of shit.The older OG's are still around, but most moved onto Z's, skylines, or left cars completely.

The legit crowd is dwindling. They are still out there, but they are low in numbers. The hoonigan generation has taken over. I sell parts daily and have to deal with these kids all the time. Some are awesome, don't get me wrong. I had an 18 year old roll through with his s14 and he was cool as shit. They save up for good parts and buy properly used items.

Others are garbage kids who think they know everything and want everything for $20 bucks. Willing to meet in my city? I can pay you next month?

Still got love for the "original" users that were only known by a screen name.

[lunchmeat]

I hope Nissan is paying attention to how a cheap 90s sports coupe is still one of their most popular cars. As for sports cars, all they have is the Z and gtr, one of which is out of reach for most of us. They seriously need to bring back the Silvia. I'd sure as hell buy one.
I prefer clean mods or stock cars, not stance nation crap or half assed drift cars. I cringe every time haggard garage pops up on YouTube's recommended list.
Maybe I'm just old and can't stand to see kids ruining the cars I grew up driving.

[andisan]

I've had mine since 2002 and I haven't fallen to any trends, and like I read, keeping it OEM as much as I can with good aftermarket replacement parts to adjust certain things

[rawgarage]

never seen so many ragged 240s till the blood masters shit took off.... gave hoonigan a platform and ppl started having missile cars with no clean daily or track car....MISSILE LIFE

[SoundEfx]

I always loved the 240's but could never afford one. Needless to say, when I finally could, it was too late, the hoonigans got to them first.

So desperation crept in and when a someone decent one showed up, my impulse made me buy it without a thorough look over. But I was determined to keep it because they don't come up very often.

A year went buy and out of boredom I searched for a 240sx and there was another one for way cheaper than mine with NO body damage. So I bought it and sold the previous one.

To me it seems as if younglings these days don't understand the 'less is more' concept. A nice drop and rims could make these cars look really good.

[ryandriftingfat]

Bought my first s13 in 2001.

Every thing you people bitch about as being a problem now. We bitched about the same 10 years ago.

Builds are way better now either way.

[Kingtal0n]

Im driving the $#!T out of it until something breaks?


And nothing ever breaks.

Thats my future holds

[DJTTon]

Im way out of my league here, but Im one of these newbies you guys refer to (not the hoonibros, I despise them as much as you guys do) but my point is that it is pretty interesting to see these comments from veterans like yourselves because it offers a useful perspective to guys like me.

Dont get me wrong, there is a reason why I called myself a newbie but thats because I havent read enough, met enough people, driven enough and experienced enough of what owning a 21 year old car has in store for me.

4 month owner and I already know a lot of things that could be wrong with a midwest 240. Obviously being a college kid has its limitations but Im working with my car despite slightly regretting purchasing it.

I tune to zilvia daily to gain insight and I guess I couldnt be doing that if it weren't for the 240 veterans.

[blkblk240sx]

The 240 I own was purchased by mother in 1996 it is 91 coupe at the time it had 30,000 she past away 2001. I was 26 when she bought it I'm now 46. Mods xxr rims rb25 suspension coilovers
And I only run once every 2 months but when I bring it out it turn heads

[Agent S14]

had mines since march of 2004 when I was 17. great memories in my car. wont ever let it go.


I was very shy and didn't have any friends my car helped me become social and meet people who share similar interests as me. I owe a lot to my car even if it does sound dumb.

[ZenkiKid]

Ive had my pignose since Summer 2006. Had alot of inspiration from PG, SlideSquad, Team Hinga and so on.

Love the car but almost never drive it anymore. With how stupid most of the youth is with cars there`s no way in hell I would sell it.

[s13poop]

I've owned an S-chassis on and off since 2006, I've met a lot of great people off this forum some that I still hang out with today.

I remember setting up the original Diamond Plaza meet out here in rowland heights area and all Socal OG's used to drop by (Simoun (akademik1), Vatche, Yuri,Brian Harte, John (Moderator), Duffm4n, Edgar (Arctic Dragon) ect. ect..

I recently bought another s13 coupe last year to restore and it boggles my mind how hard it is to find parts now.. Just meeting up with these kids is a pain/ waste of time, seems like no one keeps their word when they're selling a part to you with the whole "sorry man just sold it to my friend excuse"

I don't even want to get started on kids with their missiles and parting out every single 240 to scrap. It's honestly sad to see whats done to these cars

I made a mistake of selling my last coupe which recently was salvaged (by its owner) but i'm keeping my current one for good

I hope Zilvia does find a younger crowd willing to use this site to bring the community back to where it once was

[jackal264]

bought my 95 s14 in 2002. my first car. still have the car today.

[JM216S14]

I've had 5 or 6 over the last 10 years, I don't even know why I like them.

[Quail]

I've had the same Kouki for 10 years now.

I was 19 when I bought it, and R32 GTST and R33 GTSTs were the most popular RWD turbos over here. As such I decided to look for something a bit different. S14s weren't particularly popular yet (the drifting boom hadn't exploded).

I bought the car completely stock, did some questionable aesthetic modifications (ill-fitting wheels, ugly bodykit, etc), and eventually returned the bodywork to stock and got some decently fitting Work Meisters. Power mods have remained fairly conservative throughout (breathing mods on the factory SR20).

I have definitely outgrown the bodykit and stretched-tyre phase, although I still enjoy the more extreme projects when they're put together well.

My rule of thumb is (as I approach 30 years old), would I be embarrassed to drive this car to a restaurant? I'm way too old to drive a teenager's car, hence my more conservative choices as my S-chassis tenure grows. I intend to keep the car indefinitely.

[Michael E]

Bought my first s13 10 years ago, almost all of the same guys are still around. Some new guys and some old guys dropped off. Met some of my closest friends through cars!

There were a lot of junkers back then as well, it all depends on the owner. But back then non car people had 240's as their every day car, I do not see that much anymore these days as the cars get older. Every car and every situation is different but I think the 240's are here to stay and will be in enthusiast hands for years to come.

[Ellie]

I got my first 240 at 19 and have only been in this scene for 3 years, but I really wanted to vent my experience with s-chassis owners of my generation.

Half ass:
It needs a gasket I don't have, cardboard will do
I'm missing a screw, a zip tie will do
I'm not using those wires, but I'll just leave em hanging there
It's got a leak..meh, it's only a 'small' leak
I swear, so many guys just don't want to do shit the right way, there's always a shortcut.
This sucks because most guys that sell/buy 240's are like this, so when you get one you gotta sift through all the bullshit they rigged up and fix it.

Messing with the recipe/all over the place:
It's simple, get a car, do service and maintenance, then suspension components.
Its so fucking easy and you can add all the upgrades you want after, and you'll have a reliable platform to start with. Why wouldn't you want that?! Everyone wants to start off somewhere stupid like doing a silvia front with banged up fenders, then turbo their ka without a tune, next is rattle can paint, springs are cut but they wanna get strut bars, time for a cage because why the fuck not, etc. Then their engine blows and it's up for sale as one of the many shitboxes you see on your local FB group.

Overdoing it:
I feel like the only way your car is recognized as 'baller' is if your bay is tubbed/tubed & you're rocking over fenders with some crazy ass deep dished wheels. What's wrong with stock bodies and wheels that fit? It makes me sad when guys cut up perfectly straight bodies, such a waste.

LS's:
I know this is a sensitive subject, but I fucking hate LS swaps. I don't care if it's more reliable, cheaper, easier to acquire parts, it's fucking lame. It totally kills everything cool about these cars and what attracted me to them in the first place.

[Future240]

My rule of thumb is (as I approach 30 years old), would I be embarrassed to drive this car to a restaurant? I'm way too old to drive a teenager's car, hence my more conservative choices as my S-chassis tenure grows. I intend to keep the car indefinitely.

I have not had my car for 10 years (6) but this is my same philosophy. I am to old to drive some kitted out car with a GT wing and ultra loud exhaust. The JDM aero with a nice set of wheels that fit without have to run -7 camber is what I prefer.


Not saying that I hate on those who do. To each their own. Just not my cup of tea.

[nightwalker]

Sounds like those of us who got into the S chassis for the love of driving them and their timeless looks will still be here in another 10 years.

I will admit that I got drawn into the drift thing when I was younger with my old fastback. And like a lot of people, I over modded the car to the point where I hated driving it. Eventually I jumped a curb being stupid and ruined the car indefinitely.
I moved on to other cars after my 3rd S chassis, and got drawn back in with the purchase of my current S14 Kouki. At this point, I don't see myself ever selling this car. I may buy new cars, but this one will never leave my ownership.

Keep the comments coming, maybe we'll resurrect this thread in 10 years to see how things have changed. :D

[bmaddock]

I bought my S13 in 2012 so just around 4 years of ownership now and I've seen quite a shift in just that time alone. Prior to my 240 I really wasn't into modifying cars like I am now but I always appreciated the workmanship many build threads seemed to have at the time. The Bloodmasters videos were coming out around this time and I remember finding them entertaining but had no clue what that would entail for this platform over these past years.

Having seen some of these deemed 'missile cars' in person and watched on as locals destroyed their cars, I think this trend has come as quickly as it will go. My car is stock bodied and lowered on cheap wheels, I think it looks OK but overall a very poor representation of the quality looking cars I feel I saw in the past. But you wouldn't believe the praise I get for having such a "clean 240, bro." I always look at them like they're joking but most people are serious. If having one color, endless dings and scratches in the paint, knockoff wheels and a tatered convertible top qualifies as a clean car, call me Broadfield.

It’s laughable at best but with the hoonigan gods (tuerk, forsberg, gittin) not promoting missles as much anymore, the instagram builders and scene kids will taper off and hopefully quality builds will return. Final Bout and threads like Youre doing it wrong will hopefully guide the community into the right direction of what to do and not to do.

[[240sx]]

My car is stock bodied and lowered on cheap wheels, I think it looks OK but overall a very poor representation of the quality looking cars I feel I saw in the past. But you wouldn't believe the praise I get for having such a "clean 240, bro." I always look at them like they're joking but most people are serious. If having one color, endless dings and scratches in the paint, knockoff wheels and a tatered convertible top qualifies as a clean car, call me Broadfield.

Holy hell. Q.F.M.F.T!

[EJ8 944]

I've been looking for a good S14 chassis since 2007, finally found the right one in 2009. Still have it today, with no plans to sell it.

I think the "instagram" builds go for most car makes/models and not just ours. I don't know why but becoming internet famous is the end goal for a lot of people these days. Those who come into this because the trends, leave when it's over, and those who enjoy building these cars, will stick around regardless.

I still think this is one of the best FR chassis cars from the 90's, to me, the cars of that decade are the cars of the 60's for the generations before us.

Edit:
https://c1.staticflickr.com/9/8764/17327435565_06615e0bee_c.jpg

[Future240]

^^^The car in your avatar is pretty much how I want mine, albeit a different color. Stock jdm with a hint of the fmic peaking out. IMO it looks 10000x better than the instagram stuff.

[estrada42]

I've been a Datsun guy since high school, always having an S30 Z car or two in various stages of repair. I bought my first 240sx in 2005 for $1000 because I wanted a commuter that had four seats.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v72/estrada42/Old%20cars/IMG_0571.jpg

It was a junker that looked decent. It was a 5-speed swapped 92 that needed "help" passing smog. I loved it, but one of my customers sold me his 300zx Twin Turbo for a bargain so I sold the S13. I remember having a rough time selling it for $2000, and some kid came up from LA for it. Now, I would have gotten $4000, because it's the same color, lowered and has a triple projector front.

I went through a few more Z's and some non Nissan car's but came back to the 240sx when I needed a cheap commuter that had 4 seats and was rear wheel drive. I was shocked to see how much the "scene" has changed and how much more these cars went for.

Seems like the 240sx crowd is becoming flooded with kids. Theres still the small but vocal older crowd but the younger guys don't listen to the older crowd and don't really want to do the work. I've been a member here forever, but have a super low post count because I'm from the generation that search 2-3 times before I post and find what I need instead of demanding someone tell me what I need. The same thing happened tot he Subaru crowd when WRX's hit the sub-$6000 price.

Now I have a 93 Automatic coupe that legit passes smog every time. I won't post a picture of it because it's not lowered and it's on horrible Konig 17's. The front end needs to be replaced, but I probably won't Silvia face it. I'll lower it because it looks ridiculous, but I'm not SR/JZ/VQ/LS swapping it anytime soon. I'm at a point in my automotive life where I don't need my DD to have a shit ton of power. I want a good handling street coupe that I can put my two kids in the back of if I have too.

[chris_240sx]

I got my S14 as my first car back in 2007, so nearly 10 years ago. Still have it, although it's more beat up from people running into it and the occasional drift day.

I remember back then when the sticker thread was huge and I wanted ALL of the cool ones. Pretty glad I'm over that. Now I just want to finish my Navan kit and have it look nice and feel nice to drive.

[silviaks2nr]

I have had the same s14 for 12 years. If you go on the Wikipedia 240sx page you will find a photo of my car which has been there since a friend wrote the page.

[MrMigs]

Have had one 240 (s14) for 15 years. Opinions on the scene? Hard to say because I'm pretty sure that while the scene changed, but I've probably changed too. Before, everything is exciting. See so many people with common interest with strong respect. First drift events and competitions in SoCal? So awesome. Drift is life. Could say that there were many less "fukbois" but maybe I was a bit of a fukboi at the time too, so naturally, perspective is a little bit different.

I can only say these things from this 32 y/o point of view:

Changed: Now, people getting much more of a "pass" to put together really crappy 240s. Some ppl even get props for building ultra junky cars. Sense of pride in purposely making poop-mobiles. Before, if your car was shit, at least you knew it. Late night mountain runs much more secretive. 20-car meetup at mountain? Ultra risky now (cops). Before, hell ya, party time no problem. Those were all kind of bad changes...

Good? Ahhh.... hmm... parts are more accessible? I don't know... that's not really "community" stuff. As sheit got kind of crappy, I've started to slowly drop out of the community, although I pop back in from time to time.

Future? What future? Next generation of enthusiasts are running these cars to the ground. At least it's making the value of my car go up. Pretty sure it's going to be considered rare, which is kinda cool, but super sad at the same time.

[Future240]

^The green kouki?


This thread makes me feel better about my car. I've had it for 6 years and it is not boosted yet.

[MrMigs]

^The green kouki?

yuppers that's the juan

[crzsteveo]

Wow this is an awesome thread. I got my first coupe at 16. I had that bullshit ain't care mentality for a couple of months then started to paint my rusty old coupe white then got totaled. Pick it up for 700. Then got a hatch with insurance money for 1500. Clean, straight min rust, DHO chassis. ( I'm a nerd look it up not a lot are left). Going on 6 years I believe. Drifted it, crashed it and drove around looking like shit during college. Finally painted it, and "brought it back to its former glory" so to speak.

Biggest thing I've seen personally in the community( east coast wise) is no personal style. Everyone is doing something they see online, which is cool to get inspiration but change things up just a little. Also self centered peeps. Like I'm always trying to help other 240 owners out but it's getting played out because everyone is just using everyone. Also a lack of just good vibes. I have OG peeps I met at my first 240 meet and we're still friends today. But that number is getting smaller and smaller every year. I don't even hang out with other 240 guys. I just want Bro time and good vibes. :,(

[Dboyizmlg]

13 years strong here!

I remember I wanted an Integra when I stared getting into the car scene lol.
I was in high school and bunch of kids where into Honda and shit was dope lol, every one wanted to be fast and furious.

One of my classmate was into the S-chassis scene, he showed me the light!
I was then introduced to Drifting and how cool it was to have a rear wheel drive.
I bought my first S14 zenki bone stock from a Paisa in San Diego.

Swaped SR20 in it, coil overs, a few mods,then bought an S13 hatch for daily.
Had a few other S13's after that which I dont want to get into detail.

I had a lot of car friends and a few S-chassis friends, over time most of them fell off the scene. I stuck through but I was not consistent; in some point I really didn't care much so I didn't do any thing to the 240 I was just working and paying bills and worried about my ex-girlfriend cheating on me (young and stupid) I know... lol

I know some OG cats till this day. But I have witnessed the scene change as I have changed.

Superior Nissan was my destination for parts, So was Wayne from Phase 2 (still is).

I remember S-chassis owners being more humble and respectful in the early days, giving us the thumbs up at a red light.

Times change, and so do we.

[DrftKingIII]

I still think this is one of the best FR chassis cars from the 90's, to me, the cars of that decade are the cars of the 60's for the generations before us.
This.


msglngth

[ryandriftingfat]

I miss being able to show up to Balcony and get parking because everyone drove their drift cars to the track. And drifting in Fontana. And all day events at Irwindale. Drift Day.

But we have Horse Thief now.

Sales are god damn awful now though, that is for sure.

[Future240]

yuppers that's the juan

Dude.

When I was younger. I spent years going to that page staring at that car. I literally bought one same color.

[MrMigs]

Dude.

When I was younger. I spent years going to that page staring at that car. I literally bought one same color.

W...wha? What page? Wait... you spent years going to my forsale thread? lol

[MADE]

This will be my 10th year of ownership of my S14, life changes and its been in the garage for about 2 years just waiting on minor things. I just don't have the time for it, but I love driving. I have owned Nissan FR platforms since 1999 and yes the community was different in the beginning and turned into what the majority has become. This isn't new the car culture always changed from the "old to new" enthusiast. Drifting, entry level parts and the way we treat people in our culture started with some of us that allowed others to not embrace the new generation of owners. The older crowd remember when these cars rolled off the show room floor, the younger crowd just want something they can drift of fulfill their love of motorsports with. Its not valued the same and that is hard to except.

[ixfxi]

Twenty fucking years
Thats how long I've owned my `90 hatch, bought it in 1996.

After putting say, about 100k on the car - that car got put on ice for a nice, long, 11 year full resto-mod project. But you know, life happens. We get married, kids, and all of a sudden our fun projects are on the back burner.

I picked up a couple other cars along the way, also fun projects. 2 days ago, decided to pick up a `95 S14 from a long-time friend in the 240 community who decided that he really just didnt want to deal with "old car ownership" anymore. Makes sense, and I'll be more than happy to explain...

You guys who say "keep it stock" really dont know what you're talking about. In stock form, these cars are complete shit boxes. The beauty in these cars is tuning & modifying them, but how? By installing the proper parts. And this is where most people's projects go to shit. You guys fail to use good quality parts, or you start projects that are over-ambitious. I am guilty of that as well, but I am a firm believer in finishing what you start.

But now, these are just old fucking cars - and they are not mostly made of metal, like the old Domestics. Lots of plastic thats old, worn and brittle - and now OEM parts from NISSAN is no longer an option. So, we're pretty fucked and these cars honestly are destined for the garbage can. Unless NISSAN decides to extend support for all the little needed bits-n-bobs to keep our cars fresh.

The 240SX recipe is simple: cheap & fun car, easy to tinker with, and young, inexperienced amateur mechanics can sharpen their teeth and gain knowledge with the cars and form friendship within the community.

Thats how it *was* - I am uncertain if thats how it will *be*. New-era is responsible for the Doing It Wrong thread. Our generation of Doing It Wrong was the S12 200SX. :-)

[zombiewolf513]

You guys who say "keep it stock" really dont know what you're talking about. In stock form, these cars are complete shit boxes. The beauty in these cars is tuning & modifying them, but how? By installing the proper parts. And this is where most people's projects go to shit. You guys fail to use good quality parts, or you start projects that are over-ambitious.

...If you can't appreciate a car in its raw form and well maintained, a LOT of enthusiasts would say you don't know what you're talking about. especially a 240, where 1/25 are stock and clean. Keeping it stock and maintained is almost as much of an art as modifying it well. It's like having a blank canvas in a world full of half ass tagged walls.

[ixfxi]

...If you can't appreciate a car in its raw form and well maintained, a LOT of enthusiasts would say you don't know what you're talking about. especially a 240, where 1/25 are stock. Keeping it stock and maintained is almost as much of an art as modifying it well. It's like having a blank canvas in a world full of half ass tagged walls.

There's nothing RAW about a stock 240SX.

Whats RAW about a clutch dampener that restricts clutch feel. Ah yes, the oh so grippy stock clutch - a real gem.

Whats RAW about the stock brakes, which are totally undersized for any spirited driving. The stock brake system for the S-chassis should have been the Z32 brakes. Stock brakes for the Z32 should have been the R33 GTR brakes.

Whats RAW about the boat-ride suspension. If our cars came with Tokico blues and a slight drop I could understand, but stock suspension sucks shit.

Whats RAW about the absolutely SHITTY stock S13 seats? If you want to spinal damage, keep those moon-shaped seats. At least the S14 seats are acceptable.

How about the finely crafted auto seatbelts, WOW, I feel so lucky and blessed to own a USDM S13. We got the worst seatbelt system while the rest of the world, bless them, got normal seatbelts.

I wont even get started with the engine, the SOHC is a complete dog turd. The DOHC is an improvement, but its still rough. Once again, the rest of the world had much better engine options.

I am not trying to turn this into a mod or not mod debate, but please - dont try to sell the wine-and-cheese purist belief that these cars are perfect *as-is* because they're not. This is coming from someone who's owned the car much longer than you, and who's taken every nut and bolt off and back on. And I'm a stickler for cars that are well-maintained with OE parts. Respect your elders, son.

[lunchmeat]

I wish 240s had the same aftermarket support for oem reproductions as classic mustangs have. You can literally build an entire car, piece by piece, from one catalog. Hell, even the Fox bodies are almost the same way.

The main reason why I'm wanting one in stock form is that it's a blank canvas. I don't have to unfuck a previous owner's bad decisions. Now will I keep it stock? Probably not in the long run. Basically fix the factory shortcomings, as was mentioned. There will be no body modifications, that's for certain.

[KiLLeR2001]

Mike is right, as much as it hurts to read. The 240sx in stock form is extremely lackluster. I will admit its fun at first, but then the car's disadvantages show themselves pretty early on. I drove my two-tone in 100% stock form for a few months before I decided it was time to "upgrade" some things.

Very moderate, went with HKS coilovers, S15 HLSD, Volk GT-C wheels 17x8, 17x9 setup, Koyo aluminum radiator, replaced worn out bushings, hicas rear sway bar, strut tower bar. Really the only thing the car needs now is the Z32 brake setup and a good solid powerplant, the KA24E has been very reliable but just doesn't have the right amount of power.

[zombiewolf513]

I am not trying to turn this into a mod or not mod debate, but please - dont try to sell the wine-and-cheese purist belief that these cars are perfect *as-is* because they're not. This is coming from someone who's owned the car much longer than you, and who's taken every nut and bolt off and back on. And I'm a stickler for cars that are well-maintained with OE parts. Respect your elders, son.

I didn't say they were perfect in stock form. It's a chassis I admire and find pride in by keeping it maintained in original form. I didn't say raw as in 'dope hawt phresh', I said raw as in 'original/factory'. I've taken these cars apart and put them back together by every single nut and bolt as well, multiple multiple times. Disagreeing that appreciation for stock (regardless of factory performance or lack there of) is in no way disrespect. I'm talking about the nostalgia of them, not the go-fast show boat supercar from the factory or modified love. All of my best memories have been in and around 240s, my stock daily is an extension of those memories. Calm down.

[Agent240sx]

About 15 years now, currently working overseas and about to return home... then the search will begin for another S-chassis.

Maybe its ageing and maturing but like Quail and Future240, I've outgrown the aggressive bodykits etc. I've owned half a dozen hatches and 1 s14 in the past. I've always loved the look of the s13 hatch but over the last 2 years I started to see it as a youngin car. I feel like I would be a bit embarrassed driving a s13 hatch around as a daily (a track car is a different story). I seem to now be more drawn to the s14 now while in the past I wasn't a huge fan.

[ixfxi]

Mike is right, as much as it hurts to read. The 240sx in stock form is extremely lackluster. I will admit its fun at first, but then the car's disadvantages show themselves pretty early on. I drove my two-tone in 100% stock form for a few months before I decided it was time to "upgrade" some things.

Very moderate, went with HKS coilovers, S15 HLSD, Volk GT-C wheels 17x8, 17x9 setup, Koyo aluminum radiator, replaced worn out bushings, hicas rear sway bar, strut tower bar. Really the only thing the car needs now is the Z32 brake setup and a good solid powerplant, the KA24E has been very reliable but just doesn't have the right amount of power.

Yes, but none of the modifications you are making to the car are anything that, IMO, are detrimental - irreversible - or make the car worse. They are necessary / tasteful improvements. You never hear anyone say "ah man, these wide stick wheel/tire setup just sucks, and these 4POT brakes make the car stop too well." There is a reason why certain things were OPTIONAL. Want an LSD? Pay for it. Its the moron owners who buy 19x12 wheels and beat the shit out of the fenders to MAKE things fit, thats the problem.



I didn't say they were perfect in stock form. It's a chassis I admire and find pride in by keeping it maintained in original form.

I am sure we agree more than we disagree, we're kinda arguing the same point that a well kept, well maintained car is the priority here. But the other aspect is that keeping it 100 is also rather annoying. Its only a matter of time before that stock clutch wears out and you say: OE NISSAN clutch or ACT? Or when the stock brakes are done: OE sliding calipers or 4POT? All of these improvements are no brainers.



About 15 years now, currently working overseas and about to return home... then the search will begin for another S-chassis.

Maybe its ageing and maturing but like Quail and Future240, I've outgrown the aggressive bodykits etc. I've owned half a dozen hatches and 1 s14 in the past. I've always loved the look of the s13 hatch but over the last 2 years I started to see it as a youngin car. I feel like I would be a bit embarrassed driving a s13 hatch around as a daily (a track car is a different story). I seem to now be more drawn to the s14 now while in the past I wasn't a huge fan.

Because its the process that we all love. Its the "hunt and find" for the stock car. Its the "customize and make it YOUR way" that we seek. And if its anything we hate, is the mistakes WE have made along the way. So what do we do? Find another S-chassis, rinse and repeat. This is why I made the wrecked S-chassis thread, might as well start documenting the dead and see if we can even come close to an estimate of whats left.

In the end though, its just a car and we cant re-create what NISSAN made. We wont have the quality OE parts to keep our cars pristine. In the end, we're going to have aftermarket junk fenders and poor fitting weatherstripping, just like they have for the older Z cars and the domestics. This is what sucks the most.

[Frank_Jaeger]

The desire to keep these cars stock isn't because they're so amazing out of the box, it's because so many are being lost to accidents, partouts, and worst of all general fuckery. It's a matter of preservation in the face of rapidly dwindling stocks.

You can scoff at it now, but 20 years from now my barn full of low mileage unmolested S13s and S14s will make me RICH. Absolutely fucking filthy RICH.

[KiLLeR2001]

Until another Hurricane Charley or some good ole Florida lightning to set your barn on fire proper.

[lunchmeat]

The desire to keep these cars stock isn't because they're so amazing out of the box, it's because so many are being lost to accidents, partouts, and worst of all general fuckery. It's a matter of preservation in the face of rapidly dwindling stocks.

Especially the general fuckery.

[EDacIouSX]

Yea I have to say a bone stock 240sx is pretty much complete crap LOL. I don't think those really exists anymore anyway. There are so many cool parts for the 13/14 that really make the car shine and you don't even have to cut up the fenders either.

[Teddy Bruckshot]

I like where this thread is going! I've stalked this forum for years before I made an account. I would just read and look through the forums. I've been an S Chasis enthusiast since 2008 and I've only owned 3 s14s. I'm a baby compared to some of you OG's , but I've grown to appreciate stock aero and some personal mods to a car. These cars are becoming more scarce each year , I wonder what the culture will be like in a couple years ?

[crzsteveo]

What I also don't get is the lack of common sense some guys have when I tell them that these cars will increase in value over time. Call me stupid, but that's the way I see it. I guarantee y'all that the one guy who has a stock s14 kouki or coupe or any model, will sell that shit on fuckin barret jackson lol

[cnichols]

I'm old. Hell, look at my join date <----

I bought my first S14 in 1996 and have had one ever since which puts me right at 20 years. I fell in love with the car the first time I ever laid eyes on it in a magazine while I was 15. I still own my 3rd S14, which I bought in 2002.

I remember being in college which was so long ago that it was before forums even existed. Anyone ever hear of the old 240SX Amarok.org mailing list? I was on it...didn't contribute much because I knew next to nothing. But, man did I read. You actually had to sift through e-mails and the responses to follow a "thread"!!!

Like someone else stated, the scene has definitely changed, but I know that I sure have as well. The one thing I will say is that I've made a ton of friends over the years just because we both owned a 240 (DriftKngIII among them), but I can't remember the last time that has happened. That simple observation right there tells me that the scene has gone downhill. I won't sit and try to figure out the exact cause(s), but I will agree that it has definitely changed for the worse. However, that' s not going to stop me from fighting the good fight. Because, like Mike said earlier, I'm still doing this for me and not for anyone else (okay, maybe just a little, but hey, I'm only human).

[gerson408]

it has changed. i don like the stock used parts being over priced now days. Thank you Hoonigan's for all this fuckery that has occurred.

[DJTTon]

it has changed. i don like the stock used parts being over priced now days. Thank you Hoonigan's for all this fuckery that has occurred.

Is there any room for reasoning with the sellers you think?

[gerson408]

Is there any room for reasoning with the sellers you think?

Just ranting honestly from a guy trying to sell me a cracked to shit dash for 100 then stating this is better than most. kid was 19

[nightwalker]

There's nothing RAW about a stock 240SX.

Whats RAW about a clutch dampener that restricts clutch feel. Ah yes, the oh so grippy stock clutch - a real gem.

Whats RAW about the stock brakes, which are totally undersized for any spirited driving. The stock brake system for the S-chassis should have been the Z32 brakes. Stock brakes for the Z32 should have been the R33 GTR brakes.

Whats RAW about the boat-ride suspension. If our cars came with Tokico blues and a slight drop I could understand, but stock suspension sucks shit.

Whats RAW about the absolutely SHITTY stock S13 seats? If you want to spinal damage, keep those moon-shaped seats. At least the S14 seats are acceptable.

How about the finely crafted auto seatbelts, WOW, I feel so lucky and blessed to own a USDM S13. We got the worst seatbelt system while the rest of the world, bless them, got normal seatbelts.

I wont even get started with the engine, the SOHC is a complete dog turd. The DOHC is an improvement, but its still rough. Once again, the rest of the world had much better engine options.

I am not trying to turn this into a mod or not mod debate, but please - dont try to sell the wine-and-cheese purist belief that these cars are perfect *as-is* because they're not. This is coming from someone who's owned the car much longer than you, and who's taken every nut and bolt off and back on. And I'm a stickler for cars that are well-maintained with OE parts. Respect your elders, son.

^ THIS! Oh man, it's been ages since my old 240 buddies and I talked in length about the "diamond in the rough" that 240s are.
You and your generation were the ones that influenced me and mine. I thought that we would be able to do that for the next, but shit just got out of hand. :facepalm:

[gerson408]

huge thing now as well is the Respect thing a lot of the new kids just lack respect for elders and the knowledge you try to pass down to them they take it as disrespect to them.

[zombiewolf513]

In 15 years when these fadish kids fade out of the community therell be a growth toward restoration. Time will tell though. I agree with ixfxi that slight mods are solid. I have gauges (because fuck the stock water temp shit), a comp clutch, and a sound system. Little things that add a personal touch

[bmaddock]

Restoration and OEM+ mods are nice. I can appreciate those cars but don't like them as much as heavily modified 240s. I don't see these cars aging as well as other cars and fetching a high-dollar for restoration models because like stated above, these cars just aren't that exciting in stock form.

I would be happy if all s-chassis in 10 years were properly swapped and done up correctly. The problems lies with cars that cut too many corners to get 80% of the way there but that last 20% of effort is the hardest to achieve. What really separates the great cars from the mediocre and junk cars is that last bit of effort, money and time in the build.

[collegekid]

I've only owned my car for 5 years so I wouldn't consider myself to be some kind of OG or something. I bought it at 19.

I agree with a lot of what the older guys are saying. I do appreciate seeing the 1 or 2 oem looking 240's around here and I think its because I know that if I were to purchase it, I would much rather have that oem car rather than a car with some dumbass coilovers, stupid exhaust, and other lame attempts at being a "unike snohflayke"

Case in point : My brothers 95 auto zenki we bought in October 2014 ( holy shit)
The previous owner had it for 8 years. Stock auto ka. I have a receipt from pep boys from May '14 for $2500. A lot of suspension was replaced and I'm assuming that is where they installed the Emusa fucking coilovers and the Megan fucking 3.5'' exhaust. My guess that it was a parent who owned the car and then gave it to the teenager in the house.


My younger brother has driven this car maybe 20 miles this past 1.5 years and I have driven it maybe 100.....

I do intend on keeping my car my whole life. I don't care what its value is in 20 years. With that being said, I dont think itll be too hard to come up with solutions for long term owners such as the weather stripping and the weird plastics.

[ixfxi]

I remember being in college which was so long ago that it was before forums even existed. Anyone ever hear of the old 240SX Amarok.org mailing list? I was on it...didn't contribute much because I knew next to nothing. But, man did I read. You actually had to sift through e-mails and the responses to follow a "thread"!!!

Like someone else stated, the scene has definitely changed, but I know that I sure have as well. The one thing I will say is that I've made a ton of friends over the years just because we both owned a 240 (DriftKngIII among them), but I can't remember the last time that has happened. That simple observation right there tells me that the scene has gone downhill.

Also was on the Amarok e-mail list. For the uninformed, this was before forums or even online message groups like Yahoo. This was an e-mail list where each post was essentially e-mailed to you or the entire thread was e-mailed as a digest. Its funny when you had things set to individual emails because some days you would receive only a small handful. and other days you could receive upwards of 100 messages! this was back in the late 90s guys, our modem connections were slow as shit but, things got better once we all got DSL. i still remember when forums were new and people would warn ***warning, heavy photos 56k *** because some threads were filled with big images it would bog you poor modem folk down.

Anyway, the shit hit the fan for me when the meets changed. Originally, people would walk up, introduce themselves like normal human beings - then we would talk and bullshit. I still remember around 2002 or so, when the meets just got too large and people just stopped bothering to introduce themselves. they would walk up and say "where'd you get this part/mod" The modern day equivalent is some dick walking up with their cell phone on video -- this aint TMZ, bitch!

fuckin noobs

[lunchmeat]

Oh the sound of a 56K modem....such high school memories.

[spooled240]

^haha I used to be one of those people wary of clicking those pic heavy threads!

Zilvia used to be all about body kits, what happened? lol

I've had my car for 10 years and I definitely seen the change in the crowd. I used to go to meets and meet a bunch of cool people...a few of which I am still good friends with actually.

I'm not really involved with the scene or whatever you want to call it. I just build my car because I like 240's.

[Future240]

W...wha? What page? Wait... you spent years going to my forsale thread? lol



No the pic on Wikipedia. In my teens and really early 20's I would go to the wiki page read it for the 230402348 time and stare at the kouki wanting one.

There's nothing RAW about a stock 240SX.

Whats RAW about a clutch dampener that restricts clutch feel. Ah yes, the oh so grippy stock clutch - a real gem.



Whoa whoa whoa hold up. Is this why the stock feels like shit? When I first got my s14 the first thing I noticed was how soft and spongy the clutch felt compared to the 88 Maxima I had just come out of.

[FMFsx]

I'm only 18 but my 240 body is stock .. It's a midnight blue coupe ka my dad owned a convertible since the 1990s he sold it a few months ago.I love the stock look.. Mine is just lowered and has 350z rims I would post a pic but I couldn't figure that out haha. All kids my age are all about low and slow not function.. I stay away from drifting just some auto-x

[djfiniki]

I'm 40 years old, and had my share of s-chassis with my first one being in 1998. I was probably the first one in Florida to convert my 90 to a 96 type x, and let me say my take on these cars where ahead of their time. What a lot of people don't understand is that if the s-chassis would of been brought to the U.S with the traditional sr, it definitely would have put a hurting on American muscle. They were light with turbos, and had just about the same HP.
We got duped by the industry, but that gives you a good perspective of how ahead of their time they still are. People look at my kouki with projectors to this day and don't believe it's a 97.
Think about it.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[lunchmeat]

I still don't know what Nissan was thinking when they slapped the ka in them instead of the sr. Just cheaper to use the same engine in half their lineup maybe?

[Quail]

I still don't know what Nissan was thinking when they slapped the ka in them instead of the sr. Just cheaper to use the same engine in half their lineup maybe?

I'm reading these comments and somewhat disagreeing since I don't remember the stock car being that dull. Soft yes, but not completely void of excitement. In fact it was straight-up scary in some instances (skinny wheels + soft suspension + turbo torque + wet road = steep learning curve).

Then I remembered you got the shitty engine for some crazy reason.

[lunchmeat]

For putting around town, the ka is fine. But falls flat on its ass in the higher rpms.

[gerson408]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=obl1Fe4q7zc

this is what i hate.

[lunchmeat]

It's like Jersey Shore....with cars.

[5280VertDET]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=obl1Fe4q7zc

this is what i hate.

The cuts to the people. Soooooo cringy....

My personal favorite part, the clips ending before the 'drift'. #WeWillEditTheSpinOutInPost


Been in the SR20 scene for more than 10 years, an S-Chassis has always been a realistic goal for me. Now that I am older, have an income that can buy more than Ramen and Beer, a daily, and a garage; these things are fun (the hunt, the find, the install, the troubleshooting, the build) . With all the info out there, the parts and the history of the chassis, the formula is there they just choose to ignore it and ALWAYS feel that they 'want to be different'... (#MyMomSaysIamUniqueSnowFlake)

Personally, I think that this is why the S-Chassis (or any 20+ year old import) is going down hill and stale. The info is there, the younger and novice builders "skim' the info and think "gee, this will be an easy build" or "so many cheap parts, I can afford this" and they they don't dig deep enough (or are blind) to all the shit that previous builders have had to stubble on during their builds.

As an online forum, there was more forgiveness 10 or more years ago because the info was just beginning to be available online, parts started to become easier to find and other people we happy to help someone else with the same passion. Over the years, the info is prevalent, the parts are there, and the people have the same mindset of getting spoon feed just because they own the same car as you.

EDIT: Literally couldn't even go to the next page with out my point being made...
http://zilvia.net/f/showthread.php?t=628949

[Quail]

Personally, I think that this is why the S-Chassis (or any 20+ year old import) is going down hill and stale. The info is there, the younger and novice builders "skim' the info and think "gee, this will be an easy build" or "so many cheap parts, I can afford this" and they they don't dig deep enough (or are blind) to all the shit that previous builders have had to stubble on during their builds.

I shudder every time I browse the FB groups where most people are asking inane questions that could be answered within 30 seconds, if they actually bothered to read the plethora of forums available for our cars.

Saying that, I do have faith that the "scene" (I hate calling it that) will recover and the original fans, alongside newer fans that actually appreciate quality, will keep the cars on the road.

Once the trendhoppers find something new to crash, things will hopefully go back to the way they were, albeit on a much smaller scale. Saying that, irreparable damage has been done to the industry thanks to the market-flooding of cheap Chinese parts.

[gerson408]

350 dollars for a brown dash got to be kidding me.

[Umi_R98]

I'll finally make my first post on this forum rofl!

Let see its going on 18 years on my car since I bought it "new" in 1998. At the time I didn't know how to drive stick. When I bought the car, the sales guy had to drive it back and my auntie had to drive me and my car home That's how green I was, and how much I wanted it.

As far as the scene goes, I've been disconnected from it since 03-04. Sooner or later you realize, that while the street racing scene is fun & exciting.. but if you get caught you're assed out. I should know cause I was in it, racking up wins in a stock 240 >_<. Those were fun days, just dont get caught. Especially now, when you can get a 10k fine for just watching.

IMO, overall the scene hasn't changed much, many parts of it are still the same both the good and the bad. If anything, its much smaller now than what it use to be. This is a result of people growing up, and selling off their project cars for whatever reason.

Today i'm seeing lots of stance-nation, low riding, donut whirling cars. Granted people now just want to copy what JDM or fotm because it cool. I don't have a problem with that its their car not mine. Everyone has their own preference.

My car mostly stock today, just has the normal weathering from the elements. I can now put some focus on my car now that I've got some disposable income to put on it. Like most you guys here, I tend to do alot more research on the forums. What's still amazing is how few VQ swap are.

[lunchmeat]

Well, after 7 years and an 8 hours trip, I have another 240.
92885

[zombiewolf513]

Well, after 7 years and an 8 hours trip, I have another 240.
92885

Damn, how many red koukis did they make? Sexy :naughty:

[lunchmeat]

Couldn't say. I think it's funny that when I got my green 97, I told the Nissan sales manager to find me one, any color but red. And now I buy a red one.....And I like it. Body is straight, paint is two years old, runs and drives nice, and was owned by a Nissan mechanic who also has 2 more koukis. A ka-t and ls swap.
Paid $6800 for her. Bad news is I need a driver's door panel. Then the interior would be mint.

[NiSilS14]

I've had my first S14 for the better part of 12 years, still have it too. Learned a lot becuase of this car, lots of memories and lots of mistakes. I think s13/s14s will share a similar fate as the s30 Z's. They'll start appreciating in value, which will kill off anyone who weren't serious about these cars. what's left will be people who were in it way before any "scene", and those who are appreciative for what the car is. Anyone new would be those who are probably rich and feeling nostalgic about their 90s/early 2000s. I see the s13/14s having a small cult following like s30 Z's.

[5280VertDET]

:picardfp:

This just goes on to prove my point... oh yeah, SR20DET first...

(In order by the way)
(In order by the way)
(In order by the way)
(In order by the way)



http://i.imgur.com/zirUV5G.png

https://www.reddit.com/r/240sx/comments/4i9en8/whats_next/

[NiSilS14]

:picardfp:

This just goes on to prove my point... oh yeah, SR20DET first...

(In order by the way)
(In order by the way)
(In order by the way)
(In order by the way)

I feel like ever since 240s blew up, SR swaps have always been desirable. That hasn't really changed imo. What has changed is the quality of the work that people put into these cars, any car for that matter. We just see it more with cars that are now cheaper, i.e. 240s, WRXs, 350z's, etc. A lot of us, used to, save our pennies so we can buy the better parts, and take the time to do it right, at least try to. nowadays it's a car build is super slam dunk the car, wheels, and done.

[DJTTon]

@lunchmeat

How'd you find it? I'm considering another schassis but not sure where to look. Preferably stock/no major mods and unmolested like the one you got yourself

Sent from my SPH-L720T using Tapatalk

[lunchmeat]

Popped up on cars.com one day. I try to avoid craigslist. Whole lot of shady on there.
It's got an intake and fart can(surprisingly not obnoxious), g35 wheels, and all the Silvia badging too. Other than that, it's stock.
The guy was gonna do a manual swap on it then sell it for more.

[OBEEWON]

I am to old to drive some kitted out car with a GT wing and ultra loud exhaust.

Never too old...

http://image.superstreetonline.com/f/8739782+w+h+q80+re0+cr1/0708_turp_21_z%2Bnissan_240sx%2Bdaijiro_inada.jpg

http://i.blogs.es/4d9a40/daijiro-inada/450_1000.jpg

[BossHogg]

had 240 in my life since 1992. Learned how to drive in one. Learned how to crash in one. Guess you could say it wasn't really mine until 2001. Went through 4 chassis. 2 hatches and 2 coupes lol. Honestly, IMO the 240 style has always been trash in the USA. I would say I feel the early days were better because the people had more of the "JDM" style. The clean style, not the ricer style of today. But that was just the USA atmosphere. Fast n Furious made ricer the status quo. But a few of the true followers made their cars right. You could tell who they were to. I would say now a days, the cars are more extensively built in terms of cages/suspension etc due to drifting. But the overall style is just stanced out, ugly ass kits and junk ass plastidip or wraps or whatever else. Back then it was mostly bolt ons and what not. Parts were a bit more expensive because all we had was the japan side of things for the most part. But as soon as the cheaper quality junk started coming out, you saw more people with coil overs and suspension arms etc. Me personally, never was a SR fanboy. I was KA-T all the way, still think its the better option. It definitely is an ugly SOB compared to SR, but I will never swap a 4 cyl for another 4 cyl. That is just dumb. As for the future.....I wouldn't even waste time on a 240, just import a real 180 or silvia. Chances are you will get a cleaner car, with a OEM installed turbo motor, and bolt on parts through out. It will be more initial cost, but a better car in the long run. My opinion.

Needless to say, my 240 has maybe gone 50 miles in 10-12 years. I have old school discontinued parts that are mint condition still because my shit has never been finished lol. But it's day is coming, I can promise that.

[turboshoebox]

I wouldn't say all 240's in the usa scene were trash but here's what the time line was happening


Early 2000= bomex, zeal body kits, VIS racing , APC 2 tone vinal interior etc. slim pickings on parts
http://image.superstreetonline.com/f/8870970+w+h+q80+re0+cr1/0208tur_16z%2Bnissan_240sx_s14%2Bfront_right_view. jpg

mid 2000=jdm parts, flush wheels, sr20, vertex, tomei, arc, kei office, nismo done right
http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y34/revat619/8042671674_5b937aed71_c.jpg

after all that= my car is a drift or track slut, beat car, formula d, ain't care, twerk it iggy etc. era = to today
https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/d0/e0/88/d0e0881be82f9e53199b5f122cf6b6a7.jpg

[collegekid]

^in the first pic is that a kouki hood on a zenki?

[CrimsonRockett]

^in the first pic is that a kouki hood on a zenki?

Bomex optional hood spoiler/add-on.

[amolao]

27 years, proud owner since 1989.

[economix]

14 years and counting, still owning my first 240 - '89 HB with S14 SR20 that I dropped in when I was 22 and hardly had a penny to pinch. Now I'm 35, still working on the car whenever I find time, but shes's come an incredibly long way especially since I have several years of adult money in my pocket now.

Aside from the jackassery that can take place here at times, I love the community. Yes, there are some kids making their rides worse and giving a bad reputation, but you think that doesn't happen in other communities? They're everywhere, ask the Mustang folks (they're actually good people). But you see a lot of promise in this community since it's taken a great platform and tried an immense amount of modifications like crazy motor swaps and other absurd body works to find out what works and what doesn't. we bolt stuff on, take it off, and share our work with others to help provide a free lesson to others and show off our work.

[Crazyced]

I've only owned mine for a little over a year. But I have to disagree with the claim that the 240sx is the new Civic. Drive around and you still see 90's Civics everywhere. I don't know about you guys, but I can count on one hand the amount of times I randomly ran across an S-chassis driving around. Saw one in a Home Depot parking lot the other day and took a picture of it. Because it was nice? Not really. Simply because it was there, on the streets.

Most of the ones I see for sale are unplated/undriven projects. Sadly mine is one of those as well, but I bought it fully aware of that. Got too many plated vehicles already.

But who knows, I might change my mind someday and get the thing back on the street.

[2muchboost]

Bought my first Zenk in 2002. Met up with some guys in NY known as Import Fanatix where they introduced me to several people and shops that were doing work on the 240sx back then. Bought a bunch of parts from Heavy Throttle, Hybrid Dynamics, Jim Wolf etc. Then got the SR bug early 2003 and had a half-cut 180sx shipped over to me (btw from Japan to my uncles shop was $1850 including all taxes and fees....the good ol days). Took everything out including the Ogura Clutch that was in it and dropped it in. Slapped on a Disco Potato turbo and made a whoppin 320rwhp using an Apexi Power FC. Blew that setup up and then rebuilt the SR 2 more times before getting rid of the motor. Sadly I parted the Zenki last year when I moved to TX and now I am back to a bone stock 97 White Kouki with 145k miles on it.....loving the stock car with AC :)

Hindsight, should have left the 71k original mile KA in there and turboed it but there wasnt much support for it back in those days. Since 2002 I have done an LS swap and 2J besides the 2 fully built SRs.

[ixfxi]

Me personally, never was a SR fanboy. I was KA-T all the way, still think its the better option. It definitely is an ugly SOB compared to SR, but I will never swap a 4 cyl for another 4 cyl. That is just dumb. As for the future.....I wouldn't even waste time on a 240, just import a real 180 or silvia. Chances are you will get a cleaner car, with a OEM installed turbo motor, and bolt on parts through out. It will be more initial cost, but a better car in the long run. My opinion.

people are swapping one 4 cyl for another 4 cyl, because one of the 4 cyl sucks shit and idles rough, has weak internals, and does not come with a factory turbo. :-P afterall, not all of us want to deal with reprogramming ecus and upgrading internals, or even custom exhaust manifolds. plus the motor looks tits.

as for owning a genuine 180sx, thats great if you enjoy sitting on the wrong side of the car. something that i plan on never doing. you know, just stating my opinion though....

[Zenkipowered]

There are a fair amount of long term 240 owners in here. We've pretty much grown up with our 240s and have literally watched the scene change many times over. I'm just curious to hear your opinions on it; how it's changed, what you consider bad, good, and what you think the future holds for the beloved S chassis cars. Thanks. (Please keep it mature)

Owner of 240sx since 2006. which makes it about 10 years now. I was lucky I had great friends and people who helped me in what I consider the "Right way". Had only S14s, every year produced except for 1998.

The good so far? Builds have gotten a lot better and more styles have and are being pioneered in a way. And I hope that will continue, to those who prefer Oem styling thats fine. in the past 8 years of owning a 240 its always been Oem styling and im just a bit over it. dont hate it just like having a kit, especially the one I chose.

the bads? People can be too opinionated these days. Im sure we have all heard this before, but each person at one point in the car scene has or will act cocky, better than others, or talk smack about others. Its okay to have your opinions but important to be respectful. I agree with others in lately its been about the fame game.

Everyone wants to get the next trendy thing to be the star of the web. But this cant be helped (and thats another story). As for building or owning a 240 the bads I see these days are laziness. Not just new kids but adults too who just dont take pride in their ride or responsibility and end up building what online people call "missle/junker cars"

The future? Like the forefathers of the USA or our parents, or grandparents who have done things right in their lives. We need to be guided and taught in the right manner of way. As so called "Veterans" whatever that means, should look to guide and do it in patience and perseverance. But thats what it takes to raise a child, a community. And there will always be children who come in and ruin things but we just need to keep guiding.

As for the 240 market, eventually there will be another affordable chassis we can all afford since we are older now and hopefully make more money. And our 240sx will become what the AE86 is now become since the FRS/BRZ release.

One piece of advice for any newcomers is, build the car for yourself but research and study up the culture and its history. You dont have to please everyone because its your build just do it tastefully.

my rant for the year

[CrimsonRockett]

people are swapping one 4 cyl for another 4 cyl, because one of the 4 cyl sucks shit and idles rough, has weak internals, and does not come with a factory turbo. :-P afterall, not all of us want to deal with reprogramming ecus and upgrading internals, or even custom exhaust manifolds. plus the motor looks tits.

as for owning a genuine 180sx, thats great if you enjoy sitting on the wrong side of the car. something that i plan on never doing. you know, just stating my opinion though....

I'll have to agree with that.

KA-T takes quite a bit of effort to make it look good. Although I do see plenty of KA-T set ups that are 100% functional, they look terrible. Spark plug wire placement, wiring all over the place, etc.

Quick comparison:

Your average KA-T.
http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i197/extreme135/S4021086.jpg

Lots of cleaning up.
http://i27.photobucket.com/albums/c177/bonomoskat/102.jpg

Simple, sexy SR.
http://www.nicoclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/img1237r.jpg

...but, I have a soft spot for KA-T set ups. The fact that it requires a bit more effort to pull off a clean look. I love that challenge.

Back on topic, I've owned my current S13 for almost 10 years now and no plans of ever getting rid of it. Most parts costing more than the purchase price of the car itself.

[spooled240]

My main gripe with the SR was how expensive they were to swap and build. I remember pricing out a full s14 sr20 swap back in 07 and it was around 6k for a measly 200whp with a fmic and full exhaust.

So instead I built a ka-t putting down 268whp for 3k, and it was really reliable. Just a pain in the ass with all the custom work.

Had the sr20 been as as cheap as they are now I probably would have went that route.

[KoukiKid]

Owned my Kouki since 2005. Although it's had its changes, I, like most on this thread, am aiming to finish it as an OEM+ build. No widebody, no mad camber, just keeping it clean although it isn't at the moment. This car saw me through my crazy driving days of high school, broke young adulthood, and now I finally have a stable enjoy income to start making it nice again.

I dislike how kids can get their hands on these cars and just wreck them, but it'll happen with every cool car a teenager can pick up for $2k and drift the shit out of.

I will say the benefit of the drift craze is that it encourages kids to get out and work with their hands. I think you could argue that this "trend" or whatever has seen more people out workin on cars than ever before. Even if it's half-assed, you can only half-ass something so much before you learn how to do it properly, so I have to give some kind of credit to those out there trying to learn. Luckily, 240's are plentiful enough that it isn't really endangering anything at the moment if someone botches stuff on them.

With that being said, I see the future of 240's just as most classics have ended up. I think finding an unmolested clean car is going to be near impossible here in another decade or two.


http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160511/68205e96d2816a43ed050bab57f8e9b6.jpg


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk

[Jarom717]

Nowadays its just a bunch of poor kids with no morals or self respect. They encourage stupidity and ghetto behavior. Street drifting during the day. Godspeed is the best. I love zip ties. JB Weld is the only option.

I stopped working on 240's for customers because of this. Its a great feeling not having to touch an utter piece of shit.The older OG's are still around, but most moved onto Z's, skylines, or left cars completely.

The legit crowd is dwindling. They are still out there, but they are low in numbers. The hoonigan generation has taken over.

man I wish that it still was like the days you described, I feel like since I just started 2 years ago that Im automatically labeled apart of that group. I wish I had started during the time you just described where a noob doesnt get flamed for asking a question online even after doing his best research.

I have a friend who has been in the game for about 7 years and he helped me a lot getting into it and I saw the difference between him and other guys.

[Mister.E]

as for owning a genuine 180sx, thats great if you enjoy sitting on the wrong side of the car. something that i plan on never doing. you know, just stating my opinion though....


Oddly enough, I really liked driving RHD a lot better. May be a mental thing, but I personally felt more in control with my dominant hand on the steering wheel and my left hand on the shifter.

[silviaks2nr]

I have only driven one RHD car (a classic convertible) but I can't imagine merging on the freeway in a newer RHD hardtop being fun or safe.

[zombiewolf513]

I have only driven one RHD car (a classic convertible) but I can't imagine merging on the freeway in a newer RHD hardtop being fun or safe.

With the way people drive around Phoenix, I'm sure you'd probably do a better job in a RHD car. Because you'd be the only one attempting to pay attention to your surroundings while you merge.

I never thought it was a problem, I look over my shoulder anyway

[jr_ss]

It's nice to see the different perspectives in here. I can honestly say this forum has changed and unfortunately for the worse. My ideals and my car have too changed with the time. I hate being asked if I slide the car, just because I own a 240. I'm hoping a touch of class will follow the fuckboi crowd when they roll out. No plans on going anywhere for awhile although my life and plans continue to evolve.

[Corbic]

Owned mine for 11 years now. Looking to sell it this summer. Sick of it.

[turboshoebox]

My main gripe with the SR was how expensive they were to swap and build. I remember pricing out a full s14 sr20 swap back in 07 and it was around 6k for a measly 200whp with a fmic and full exhaust.

So instead I built a ka-t putting down 268whp for 3k, and it was really reliable. Just a pain in the ass with all the custom work.

Had the sr20 been as as cheap as they are now I probably would have went that route.

I did a basic s14 kouki sr20 swap in 2003 for a 6k including full clip and labor. Included was nismo motor mounts, trust turbo elbow, blitz down pipe, tomei fuel pump and new water pump.

So what you are saying if i did this same swap today it would been way less?

[KAT-PWR]

Only 6 years here. No plans to sell the car.... Ever.

[ILoveJDM]

owner of multiple schassis' for 13 years,

Its pretty easy for me to step up to an s15/jzx100 etc. but I just keep coming back to s13's.

I am pretty salty how no one gave a shit about bomex/aero marker mirrors 2 years ago and not really before that either, and now they sell for 300+. It was hard for me to sell my old pair for $150. Canadian. Shipped.

and blitz 03's. I remember when you could get a shitty set for $900 not too long ago, same with model v's.

[turboshoebox]

how much are S15's going for in canada right now in USD?

[zombiewolf513]

Spec S about $7.5-9k. Spec R around $11-13k

[turboshoebox]

God damn!!! That is so reasonable.

[DJTTon]

Owned mine for 11 years now. Looking to sell it this summer. Sick of it.

Cant tell if troll or not, but PM me if you really are. Im looking for a new replacement

[biggie]

21 years of S13 ownership. Love the cars, hate the new dumb trends with them.

I've only had 3 of them as well. Wonder sometimes how people can mess up so many of them in such a short time.

[spooled240]

I did a basic s14 kouki sr20 swap in 2003 for a 6k including full clip and labor. Included was nismo motor mounts, trust turbo elbow, blitz down pipe, tomei fuel pump and new water pump.

So what you are saying if i did this same swap today it would been way less?
You had to have acquired the clip for a steal with cheap labor. 2003? The koukis were only about 6 years old lol the parts you just listed were probably close to a grand alone. Did you not include a radiator, clutch, fmic and gauges? That also adds up.

I remember an s14 sr20 swap in 2007 was about 5k. I added a grand for a fmic and exhaust (which easily could have been more) I didnt add labor since I was going to do it myself. Full clips (especially kouki) were probably over 7500 and thats if you didnt have to pay for shipping. Hell, I'll bet they're still at least 5k before shipping.

Nowadays you can get a s14 sr20 for 2000-2500 and theres a plethora of cheap used parts floating around since many people either blew them up, decided to swap it out for something else, or both.

[DJTTon]

You had to have acquired the clip for a steal with cheap labor. 2003? The koukis were only about 6 years old lol the parts you just listed were probably close to a grand alone. Did you not include a radiator, clutch, fmic and gauges? That also adds up.

I remember an s14 sr20 swap in 2007 was about 5k. I added a grand for a fmic and exhaust (which easily could have been more) I didnt add labor since I was going to do it myself. Full clips (especially kouki) were probably over 7500 and thats if you didnt have to pay for shipping. Hell, I'll bet they're still at least 5k before shipping.

Nowadays you can get a s14 sr20 for 2000-2500 and theres a plethora of cheap used parts floating around since many people either blew them up, decided to swap it out for something else, or both.

But in what condition though? Minus the blown up ones

[DJTTon]

BTW any #240orzilvia vets in the Chicagoland area?

[CamryOnBronze]

and blitz 03's. I remember when you could get a shitty set for $900 not too long ago, same with model v's.

Man, I miss cheap Blitz 03s. I think I had ten of them at one point, sold all but the 4 I kept to rebuild and ended up with a few hundred in my pocket. I put about $1700 into them to have them rebuilt and then sold them for $2700. Now even the worst condition pair with poor sizes sells for $900 easily.

I feel like one of these "I've been here a super long time and everything sucks now, I am more OG than you, etc." threads pops up about once a week at this point, but I don't mind it because it stirs up discussion in an online community that has otherwise slowed down drastically in the last couple years (through no fault of its own- things have just moved to forums and more mobile-friendly mediums like Instagram.)

As for the whole "Kids are ruining these cars and I hate the community/these cars now" thing, that's never made a lot of sense to me. Sure, it can be frustrating, but it's always been this way. People were complaining about similar things in 2008 when I bought my S13 and will continue to complain about whatever the newest trend is as they grow older. It's just the way it works.

I've had a few friends say they want to sell their car because of dumb kids owning them. Who cares? Just build your car and enjoy it. Do what suits YOU and you'll enjoy it so much more. A larger mentality or what young kids are doing with the same chassis shouldn't change your enjoyment of the hobby. I get that it can be frustrating, but I haven't let it ruin anything for me.

And yes, my plan is to actually KEEP my S13 this time around. After trying my hand at a couple other platforms it's just the car I enjoy owning and tinkering with the most. Definitely going to be my old man machine.

[Corbic]

Cant tell if troll or not, but PM me if you really are. Im looking for a new replacement



Not trolling

[spooled240]

But in what condition though? Minus the blown up ones

Usually good condition. At least that's what the owners will say or show with a compression test. Importers around me will charge around $2800 for a nice kouki sr. Zenki's should be a little cheaper.

The point I'm making is this stuff has drastically gone down in price over the past 10 years. I think it's because there aren't very many people that are willing to drop a good amount of money on these cars anymore.. and those that do are more willing to do a LS swap, etc.

[Mister.E]

It's nice to see the different perspectives in here. I can honestly say this forum has changed and unfortunately for the worse. My ideals and my car have too changed with the time. I hate being asked if I slide the car, just because I own a 240. I'm hoping a touch of class will follow the fuckboi crowd when they roll out. No plans on going anywhere for awhile although my life and plans continue to evolve.


Judging by the responses in this thread, I think there will be a few of us some years from now that still have our 240's. We can then organize a US S-Chassis meet in which the 10-12 surviving cars will show up and discuss fuckboy behavior in the ancient online community and laugh at ourselves for still having these cars.

[DJTTon]

And as the years pass on, less and less cars will show up. Each one of them offing as veteran war survivors.

[lunchmeat]

And as the years pass on, less and less cars will show up. Each one of them offing as veteran war survivors.
And without aftermarket support for body panels, electronics, interior bits and such, junk yards will be picked clean.

[JesusFreakDrifter]

And as the years pass on, less and less cars will show up. Each one of them offing as veteran war survivors.

this...and the price comes along with that.

[Corbic]

And without aftermarket support for body panels, electronics, interior bits and such, junk yards will be picked clean.

Haven't seen a 240 in a junk yard in 3-4 years now.

[lunchmeat]

I've only seen a handful of them, mostly S13s.

Guess we're fucked already.

[DJTTon]

I actually saw one in a Chicago pick n pull (I did some salvaging myself on it), it was not until this day that I realize how rare that was

[GoodShow]

I have had my s14 for more than 10 years , would have been 12 years if a drunk didnt hit me and total the first one.

I don't blame young kids for making the new scene crap. (It is actually getting much better these past few years)

I whole heartily blame zilvia and the moderators that abolished the rep system. If youve had your car from more than 5 years you would remember how good you would feel when Mr Meph/ Bh OR anyone else that you looked up to ( by this I mean had a cool car or treated people with respect) gave you positive rep, and how you hated having negative rep, it was almost like a real life reputation, if you said something stupid or disrespected people be prepared for negative rep. I think that kept the hoonigan style shit at bay, but once it became about the trader rep, I noticed a huge change with with newer members on here.

All of my friends have been some how connected to cars, and my whole life has been affected one way or another.

I was so happy to have a s14 zenki 12 years ago when most people thought only a kouki would look good. It got totaled and I went out looking for another one, people thought I was crazy to buy the same car I just lost. But I did, I drove all the way up to oakland and bought a super clean ka-t setup car that belonged to a guy whose name eludes me, but his youtube name was goondriver. Drove it back to socal, and on the freeway outran two guys in a nsx. I was hooked and certain on KA-T over the sr norm that all my friends had. I remember going to meets and people would crowd the car when the hood was popped and once they realized it was a ka not a rb or sr, they scoffed and walked away.

The car saw various forms of modification, mostly cosmetic after the turbo went out I drove around n/a for years. Ive always been active in the local community, going to meets trying to influence younger people to " be the best they could be" helping people just in general and being positive.

Once we even met a kid from Maine who bought a coupe out here on vacation, and was going to sell it before he went back because it wasn't stick, so my brother and I did a 5 speed swap for him without charge. Just out of goodwill to help encourage younger guys pay it forward.

Ive matured and realized that some things are not for some people and cars stop being a priority for people when they get inconvenient, or their new group of friends think it is lo class or childish. I cant count the people that have stopped being involved with our community to drive or lease a stock euro or luxery car to feel like an adult. Now those same floaters drive priuses and shit. Ive always felt 100% about car stuff. I will always be involved someway or another. No matter how old I get.

Ive recently achieved some childhood teenage dreams with a magazine feature or two, but that is not even the best part, I have helped manufacturers create things for our community, like Tomei Ka24det parts, and various other things, like bringing the Bride Histrix back to the market, and other things, but all of the things accomplished with my car was done with the help of my closest friends that also are on here and drive 240s, we are all diehards, and all in our early thirties.

Funny thing is my gf jokes when we get up early on the weekends and see all these silver haired old guys with their hotrods or cruisers at breakfast spots, and she says " in ten years that's you and your friends, shaking your fist at the young kids. "

Life is too short to mess with people that just dont get it, I just want to have a good time with everyone, see other people have nice cars, and inspire people with the things that we do with cars, like I was inspired by the guys that were in magazines in the early 2000s. They changed everything, customization was core, much or todays instafame builds, are the same seats, with the same fabric everywhere , LAME vinyl wraps ( because who can decide on a color, what if the internet doesnt like it?) and gutted interior with ls swaps.

Anyway, below I will post a few early pics of how the car looked and how it looks now. Don't worry, if you don't like it now that is fine, I am going to get another zenki within the next year or so.

http://i1312.photobucket.com/albums/t540/therobbferguson1996/208198_10150151242226917_6604941_n_zpsc3e5ccad.jpg (http://s1312.photobucket.com/user/therobbferguson1996/media/208198_10150151242226917_6604941_n_zpsc3e5ccad.jpg .html)

Was really happy with this stage, then it got wrecked( reended someone who just stopped in the middle of the road with their lights off, after a turn)

spent 650 on a stock core support after the Tsunami in Japan. Got it going again..

http://i1312.photobucket.com/albums/t540/therobbferguson1996/robbss144_zps6b87cf4d.jpeg (http://s1312.photobucket.com/user/therobbferguson1996/media/robbss144_zps6b87cf4d.jpeg.html)


after the repair it had a modified Navan bumper, ( without the stuped plate mounting aera and uprights and horizontal in the opening)

Cahnged wheels to Panasports( once again a huge blessing to have great people around me for that one)

and now it is this...
http://i1312.photobucket.com/albums/t540/therobbferguson1996/IMG_2947_zpsy4ukbmbo.jpg (http://s1312.photobucket.com/user/therobbferguson1996/media/IMG_2947_zpsy4ukbmbo.jpg.html)

Not going to lie it was not an easy decision to chop up the car and make this. Since this build, I have met many great people, have been very fortunate with the reception of it from people, and I don't regret it, I will have it forever, even when I am old, or when people tell me it is not cool. I stay true to MY vision, I didn't build something for someone else, I pushed my own boundaries.


If you are a young kid reading this, don't doubt yourself, help people around you, they will end up helping you, stay positive, work hard.

I never thought I would have this kind of car, or even ever have my car on any magazine, let alone to be on the cover of an option magazine?!?!?! it is still crazy and unbelievable to me. More things are coming and the future of our community is stong, more and more parts are being made, so many more people are pursuing greatness with their builds. 10 years ago a sr20vet was nearly unheard of, now I know a handfull of guys going that route. Anyway, thanks for reading, I enjoyed this thread and I miss the involvement of all the ogs. Zilvia really used to be an amazing place, just like D1GP was amazing in comparison to what someone experiences at FD. Thanks to anyone that has helped or motivated me in the past. Long live carlife.

[Mister.E]

Haven't seen a 240 in a junk yard in 3-4 years now.


It's really rare these days. I think most of the wrecked ones get cut up and sold as scrap.

[5280VertDET]

As a member of the Datsun community I can say this; used parts will be scarce, quality shells (not cars) will tough to find, parts manufactures will be few, but great, enthusiasts will be few but many admirers.

I am ok with this. Same as it is now (for quality parts) but less fuckbois. That being said; as if it's not already, innovation will be static. The only reason the "missle crisis" exists is that it's the only uncharted territory. Soon, they will fade and all will be right (except inovatice parts).

[wkpainter]

Whenever i buy a house i hope to buy a 2 car unattached garage and do a full rotisserie/ media blasted restoration on my 89 hatch. I think the restoration will take atleast 3 years. I plan to do a rebuild on my SR and get it up to about 300whp. I think then i will finally be out of the "build" process and be able to enjoy it without putting money into new upgrades year after year. I've had the car for almost 11 years now and will never sell it. I only drive it around 300-500 miles a year. I would like to increase that to 2000 a year.

Are any of you committed to doing/paying for restoration work to your car as it ages and the body begins to rust?

[Mister.E]

Are any of you committed to doing/paying for restoration work to your car as it ages and the body begins to rust?


No rust in these parts of the dry ass desert. If i did a restoration, though, it'd be on a hatch and not my S14. I don't think I'm that dedicated to dumping more money into another build on an old vehicle, so it would likely never happen anyway. My current build has already taken far too long. Maybe some day when I'm older, I'll build a 350z or something. My current mind state is that I'm sick of working on shit and i want to go have fun with my car. Those views could completely change a few years down the road; who knows?

[S-REVV1]

I picred up my 95 S14 in 1998, it was an Arizona car and after 6 months the first owner wrecked it so I got it for 3000$ . It took me a year to put it back together as parts were so expensive. I have done the s15 front kouki front ( current status) been through 6 sr20's. I was buying harnesses from Yuri of wiring specialities when he was doing them out of his house in Framingham Ma, and was under the company heavy throttle. Going V8 next. I'll never sell it. With 38 thousand original miles on the car I will keep it till I die!

[turboshoebox]

You had to have acquired the clip for a steal with cheap labor. 2003? The koukis were only about 6 years old lol the parts you just listed were probably close to a grand alone. Did you not include a radiator, clutch, fmic and gauges? That also adds up.

I remember an s14 sr20 swap in 2007 was about 5k. I added a grand for a fmic and exhaust (which easily could have been more) I didnt add labor since I was going to do it myself. Full clips (especially kouki) were probably over 7500 and thats if you didnt have to pay for shipping. Hell, I'll bet they're still at least 5k before shipping.

Nowadays you can get a s14 sr20 for 2000-2500 and theres a plethora of cheap used parts floating around since many people either blew them up, decided to swap it out for something else, or both.

I don't know who the hell you were buying ur clips from but a nice s14 clip was around 4k or so in 2003 lol

when i did my swap it was basically stock. all the other mods didn't come till after. I did get pretty carried away with engine mods later after the oem swap w/ stand alone, turbo upgrade and everything in between minus a built bottom end and ended up w/ about 20k in the motor alone. This was long before all the cheap alternatives like isis part.

[lunchmeat]

Are any of you committed to doing/paying for restoration work to your car as it ages and the body begins to rust?

Already there. Here's my other projects
92995
92996

[silverarrow27]

I don't know who the hell you were buying ur clips from but a nice s14 clip was around 4k or so in 2003 lol

when i did my swap it was basically stock. all the other mods didn't come till after. I did get pretty carried away with engine mods later after the oem swap w/ stand alone, turbo upgrade and everything in between minus a built bottom end and ended up w/ about 20k in the motor alone. This was long before all the cheap alternatives like isis part.

I agree, I know s13 red tops and black top clips were going for around $2500-3k. Complete swaps were going for around $1500-2000 depending on red top or black top as well.

If I remember correctly, s14 clips were going anywhere from $3k-4k depending on zenki or kouki as well. Like I've said in other threads of this similar nature, even a whole complete almost mint s13 silvia front end would go for no more than $800-1200. Now we get hacked half assed front ends going for $1k+. The s13 aero bumper would go for around $350-500 then. Now, they're $800-1k just for the bumper alone.

[ILoveJDM]

how much are S15's going for in canada right now in USD?

Spec S starting at $6000 CDN, or $4600 USD, Ive seen probably 4 examples of these in the past 2 weeks,

Spec R, starting at $10,000 CDN for a higher mile (150,000KM** -> 93xxx miles) which is $7800 USD, up to $18000 cdn for a GOOD condition 60,xxx KM version. ($14000USD)

[Quail]

Are any of you committed to doing/paying for restoration work to your car as it ages and the body begins to rust?

Absolutely. In this part of the world it's essential if you want to keep your old Japanese car!

[cgtdream]

I have owned an S14 project car for nearly 10 years now. Always wishing and wanting to work on it. Watching the fads pass by and the chassis become rarer and rarer. Now it is just a relic, sitting in a storage unit half complete. At some point I wanted to sell it....Then it changed to wanting to keep it, seeing how it is a nearly dead breed. Perhaps someday when I have a kid, ill let them have it. If they can get it running they can have their own car. Otherwise, I think that car will be sitting there wistfully for the next 10 years.

I have owned other cars, and increased my range of driving techniques. But deep down I really regret not getting my first real project car up and running. Even though I have had successes with other cars. Great thread btw.

[cgtdream]

On another note, and during my recent visit to Okinawa. Learned from my buddies there that finding an S14 in a junkyard (even in the junkyard dense island of Okinawa) was becoming very rare. If you guys have one, hang on to it. Not that many left in the land of the rising sun, which means whatever is left in the world is all there is and will be.

[CamryOnBronze]

Long, nice guy post

Great read- definitely agree with a lot of what's being said. Helping people and avoiding hostility to newcomers is definitely the way to continue the hobby and the lasting friendships that come with it.

[Corbic]

No rust in these parts of the dry ass desert. If i did a restoration, though, it'd be on a hatch and not my S14. I don't think I'm that dedicated to dumping more money into another build on an old vehicle, so it would likely never happen anyway. My current build has already taken far too long. Maybe some day when I'm older, I'll build a 350z or something. My current mind state is that I'm sick of working on shit and i want to go have fun with my car. Those views could completely change a few years down the road; who knows?



Three Cheers!

[UniqueAutoCreations]

This is a really great thread. I'm really glad to see that there are still owners out there that really love their cars and aren't just looking to chew them up and ruin it for the next guy. Even still, there is way too much of that going on. I'd love to see more of people wanting to put them back together and restore them so we can preserve what is left of these poor cars.

I became interested in 240's when my wife Jennifer (girlfriend at the time) bought one back in 2005 when she was going to college. It was your typical "needs everything" car but she liked it and we spent the whole summer putting together a decent car for her to drive around. It wasn't three weeks of it being back on the road before a truck speeding through a school zone ran a stop sign and total it. She was fine but the quarter was pushed into the back seat, so we had to start over. We found a 91 hatch with a bad engine to replace the lost chassis and we rebuilt the car again. Then along came a really nice 93 hatch that we couldn't pass up. This became her project car. I started getting ideas for what we could do with it but her vision was a little different. That's when I decided that I had to have one too. That's when I picked my 92 coupe. Long story short, but I went a little car crazy with it and 6 1/2yrs later I've built three decent S13's and now am in business making aftermarket parts for them.

I just want to help people enjoy their cars as much as I have. I hope in the future we see more quality builds that are put together and executed well.

http://i864.photobucket.com/albums/ab207/riprodder/2016%20stockyards%20day%202%2060.jpg (http://www.uniqueautocreations.com/index.html)

[Quail]

Nice car UAC; custom front fenders or the mother of all flares?

[UniqueAutoCreations]

Thank you. They are custom metal flairs. I built them myself and it's one of my favorite part about my build. Looks so natural it could have been factory!

Your S14 is totally sweet too. So much class!

[Quail]

Your S14 is totally sweet too. So much class!

Thanks man, and yours! Keep doing what you're doing with UAC as that's the kind of activity that will help to keep these cars on the road.

[Kingtal0n]

Pics ouf our cars now?
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a90/kingtal0n/Kingtal0ns_240sx_2/2016/P1260603_zpsfbvirhfu.jpg (http://s9.photobucket.com/user/kingtal0n/media/Kingtal0ns_240sx_2/2016/P1260603_zpsfbvirhfu.jpg.html)
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a90/kingtal0n/Kingtal0ns_240sx_2/2016/P1260609_zpshpmozhfm.jpg (http://s9.photobucket.com/user/kingtal0n/media/Kingtal0ns_240sx_2/2016/P1260609_zpshpmozhfm.jpg.html)

http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a90/kingtal0n/Kingtal0ns_240sx_2/th_P1200607_zpsfxncif1f.jpg (http://s9.photobucket.com/user/kingtal0n/media/Kingtal0ns_240sx_2/P1200607_zpsfxncif1f.jpg.html)

-You cant beat the look of the car, its hard to find something that appeals to everybody and this style seems to.
-the low weight is incredible, potential for MPG is real, and power/weight ratio
-Parts are cheap, easy to find, and the car is easy to work on, engine comes out in 2 hours or less.
-Many options for performance. you can slide it, daily, highway, drag, handle, brake, track it
-the right chassis is so rare the value tends to increase, making this one of the only cars I know of that you can sink 10k into and get your money back with profit
-nobody knows what it is. the price tag is "??". When I pop my hood people think I have mass $$ invested into custom work when its just an ancient stock engine from the 90's.

hard part is finding the right chassis, once you get there you just need to take your time and do it clean.

[TSL]

Oh man think the lsd I took must be kicking in.

[mr.nismo.]

I have had my s14 for more than 10 years , would have been 12 years if a drunk didnt hit me and total the first one.

I don't blame young kids for making the new scene crap. (It is actually getting much better these past few years)

I whole heartily blame zilvia and the moderators that abolished the rep system. If youve had your car from more than 5 years you would remember how good you would feel when Mr Meph/ Bh OR anyone else that you looked up to ( by this I mean had a cool car or treated people with respect) gave you positive rep, and how you hated having negative rep, it was almost like a real life reputation, if you said something stupid or disrespected people be prepared for negative rep. I think that kept the hoonigan style shit at bay, but once it became about the trader rep, I noticed a huge change with with newer members on here.

All of my friends have been some how connected to cars, and my whole life has been affected one way or another.

I was so happy to have a s14 zenki 12 years ago when most people thought only a kouki would look good. It got totaled and I went out looking for another one, people thought I was crazy to buy the same car I just lost. But I did, I drove all the way up to oakland and bought a super clean ka-t setup car that belonged to a guy whose name eludes me, but his youtube name was goondriver. Drove it back to socal, and on the freeway outran two guys in a nsx. I was hooked and certain on KA-T over the sr norm that all my friends had. I remember going to meets and people would crowd the car when the hood was popped and once they realized it was a ka not a rb or sr, they scoffed and walked away.

The car saw various forms of modification, mostly cosmetic after the turbo went out I drove around n/a for years. Ive always been active in the local community, going to meets trying to influence younger people to " be the best they could be" helping people just in general and being positive.

Once we even met a kid from Maine who bought a coupe out here on vacation, and was going to sell it before he went back because it wasn't stick, so my brother and I did a 5 speed swap for him without charge. Just out of goodwill to help encourage younger guys pay it forward.

Ive matured and realized that some things are not for some people and cars stop being a priority for people when they get inconvenient, or their new group of friends think it is lo class or childish. I cant count the people that have stopped being involved with our community to drive or lease a stock euro or luxery car to feel like an adult. Now those same floaters drive priuses and shit. Ive always felt 100% about car stuff. I will always be involved someway or another. No matter how old I get.

Ive recently achieved some childhood teenage dreams with a magazine feature or two, but that is not even the best part, I have helped manufacturers create things for our community, like Tomei Ka24det parts, and various other things, like bringing the Bride Histrix back to the market, and other things, but all of the things accomplished with my car was done with the help of my closest friends that also are on here and drive 240s, we are all diehards, and all in our early thirties.

Funny thing is my gf jokes when we get up early on the weekends and see all these silver haired old guys with their hotrods or cruisers at breakfast spots, and she says " in ten years that's you and your friends, shaking your fist at the young kids. "

Life is too short to mess with people that just dont get it, I just want to have a good time with everyone, see other people have nice cars, and inspire people with the things that we do with cars, like I was inspired by the guys that were in magazines in the early 2000s. They changed everything, customization was core, much or todays instafame builds, are the same seats, with the same fabric everywhere , LAME vinyl wraps ( because who can decide on a color, what if the internet doesnt like it?) and gutted interior with ls swaps.

Anyway, below I will post a few early pics of how the car looked and how it looks now. Don't worry, if you don't like it now that is fine, I am going to get another zenki within the next year or so.

http://i1312.photobucket.com/albums/t540/therobbferguson1996/208198_10150151242226917_6604941_n_zpsc3e5ccad.jpg (http://s1312.photobucket.com/user/therobbferguson1996/media/208198_10150151242226917_6604941_n_zpsc3e5ccad.jpg .html)

Was really happy with this stage, then it got wrecked( reended someone who just stopped in the middle of the road with their lights off, after a turn)

spent 650 on a stock core support after the Tsunami in Japan. Got it going again..

http://i1312.photobucket.com/albums/t540/therobbferguson1996/robbss144_zps6b87cf4d.jpeg (http://s1312.photobucket.com/user/therobbferguson1996/media/robbss144_zps6b87cf4d.jpeg.html)


after the repair it had a modified Navan bumper, ( without the stuped plate mounting aera and uprights and horizontal in the opening)

Cahnged wheels to Panasports( once again a huge blessing to have great people around me for that one)

and now it is this...
http://i1312.photobucket.com/albums/t540/therobbferguson1996/IMG_2947_zpsy4ukbmbo.jpg (http://s1312.photobucket.com/user/therobbferguson1996/media/IMG_2947_zpsy4ukbmbo.jpg.html)

Not going to lie it was not an easy decision to chop up the car and make this. Since this build, I have met many great people, have been very fortunate with the reception of it from people, and I don't regret it, I will have it forever, even when I am old, or when people tell me it is not cool. I stay true to MY vision, I didn't build something for someone else, I pushed my own boundaries.


If you are a young kid reading this, don't doubt yourself, help people around you, they will end up helping you, stay positive, work hard.

I never thought I would have this kind of car, or even ever have my car on any magazine, let alone to be on the cover of an option magazine?!?!?! it is still crazy and unbelievable to me. More things are coming and the future of our community is stong, more and more parts are being made, so many more people are pursuing greatness with their builds. 10 years ago a sr20vet was nearly unheard of, now I know a handfull of guys going that route. Anyway, thanks for reading, I enjoyed this thread and I miss the involvement of all the ogs. Zilvia really used to be an amazing place, just like D1GP was amazing in comparison to what someone experiences at FD. Thanks to anyone that has helped or motivated me in the past. Long live carlife.



I am a "young kid" reading this. I've been keeping up with this thread since the start as I was interested in the perspective of long time owners. In June I will have owned my s13 for 5 years, and it's been one of the biggest parts of my life. And I have to agree with everything you've stated. The only thing is i do have vinyl wrap [emoji85] (not because I want to be cheap but because this chassis is extremely damaged and is going to be more hacked with future plans I have) as I can't justify to put paint on it. I've been where you have as before with helping others and trying to bring motivation. But a lot of what I'm seeing is exactly as you said. Just buy something and put whatever wheels and ride height and call it a day. Out of the 20+ people who were building their 240's when I got mine there's only 2 left. Even then, one of them may be selling theirs as well. When I hop on Craigslist for shits and giggles the 190,xxx stock about to die 240 that has a beat shell is up for 3k and no one will budge. Have an Sr? Now 5k. People drift tax the shit out of them and that's also ruined it as well. It's sad but it's where everything is trending.

[GoodShow]

Great read- definitely agree with a lot of what's being said. Helping people and avoiding hostility to newcomers is definitely the way to continue the hobby and the lasting friendships that come with it.


Yeah, it really is. Surround yourself with good like minded people, and you will have nothing to worry about. Then all these other people cant help but take notice, then ask what you did, or what would you do, then you can guide them.

If people are just passing through let them, doesn't mean that they have to be as dedicated as you are to your car. It also doesn't mean that you have the right to disrespect them because they are buying parts that are within their budget. I've seen many people get into this hobby, or way of life and they just cant hang so they leave, or the second the car looks half way decent some stranger offers them some cash, and they sell it.


I keep seeing people say things like " it's nice to see people car about the car, and not want to smash it up or neglect it for the next guy"

NEXT GUY? there is no next guy. I will never sell me car, and I think it is like that for many people who are on here reading or contributing to this thread.

I don't care what car it is, but anyone that has a nice car and is concerned with the car staying low mileage, isn't a real car enthusiast they are like an automotive banker.

That kind of mentality is like have a virgin wife, wanting to keep her as close to that as possible, so you stay with her for 30 years and f*** her only once, or twice. Because maybe she will be with someone else some day and you want to keep her mileage and wear down for the next guy.

[JacksonBrown]

I worked and lived the aftermarket performance industry from 1997-2011, having owned turbo B16 CRX's, turbo Z33 (D-Sport feature) and S-chassis. Seen everything from clear corners, clear bumpers (never owned), racing stripes (never owned), window banners, Bomex to VeilSide to Origin to Vertex, sleeved motors, concrete-filled blocks, dual stage nitrous, tri-turbo Supras, 1500whp street-driven Supras (not mine), the early years of "illegals" (loosely organized street racing), Battle of the Imports, Nico, HIN, and attended SEMA from 2000-2008. Got out of the industry in early '11.


Still own a 95 S14 SR Zenki, which I daily drove from 2007-2013. It's been in my garage, on jack stands since 2013 - not because it was broke, or I got old, or tired of it. Summer was approaching and I had bought a new vehicle so the S14 got parked. Last year I began slowly going through the motor, outfitting it with new gaskets, flanges, lines and fittings.

I have some "car friends" who still own S-chassis, Supras, GTR's (we all seem to own FJ Cruisers, Land Rovers, and Jeeps now too) and we all hung out at a friend's wedding last weekend. Planning on getting together to rip through the mountains in our 240s soon. Shit will never ever end - thankfully.

Best,

[DRIFTER-M]

Have had a 240sx since 2005, my second one I got in 2006 I still own to this day. My original has been wrecked during it's 3rd owner after I had it. I have also had the blessing of owning every body style along the way, even a 5 speed vert at one point which was fun. I have not ever not had a s-chassis in my driveway since I purchased my first one as my very first car. I was into them as a kid as well as my sister had a 1992 LE hatch in the 90s.

Drifting has been one of my main stay hobbies since 2003, and I feel it's growth/ fall is basically 1:1 with the 240sx scene. As 240sx started becoming the next "civic" (a reality that has been worrisome since people began speculating it around 2008), we have seen a lot of hacked up/ half delivered builds. Same can kind of be said about USDM drifting, unfortunately.

The elitist Honda attitude has submerged our scene into negativity as well, which blows. The few dudes I know from the era I came from in drifting are totally different than people that began to jump in later 2000's and to now.

Overall, I am happy to say that I think drifting is more than a trend. I remember in the drifting.com days (my favorite days, honestly), people use to argue that it was simply a "trend" and would never become a legitimate motorsport. The only pro circuit we had was D1 visiting once, then twice a year. Well, regardless of how I feel of the direction of American pro-drifting, I think it has solidified itself as a real motorsport, which in a large part has to do with S-chassis - which have become somewhat of a pop culture icon car because of it. Been a fun ride.

Unfortunately, the days of buying nice 240sx are largely over. Even now, with a s14 I have owned nearly half of my life... I think I am near the selling point and getting something newer to drift. Parts are becoming less and less available (especially quality parts) as manufacturers move towards new platforms such as the Z, FRS/BRZ, Genesis, etc. I can financially afford those cars and honestly in the long run - they probably costs less per HP than maintaining a 240sx today. I remember back in 03-06 or so, Autotrader would give me 3 pages of 240sx within 100 miles of my place, which would be somewhere around 45 or so cars and most stock and clean. I paid $3,900 for my s14 from the second owner - had the rare OEM keyless entry and alarm, stock pearl paint, factory radio, etc. A thing of beauty. Today, even after tasteful modifications and a lot of money... I can't help but feel guilty because s-chassis like that do not exist anymore.

Sigh. /rant.

I still love my hobby and scene... and if I ever do sell my 240sx... it will be a truly sad day for me. Not to sound corny, but the car has become sentimental to me. It was the car I wanted as a kid, the car I learned to drift in, the car I learned most of my mechanic abilities in, the car I met my wife in, the car I took on trips, the car that my first dog (RIP) use to ride with me in. New cars will never have the same feeling that car does...

Great read- definitely agree with a lot of what's being said. Helping people and avoiding hostility to newcomers is definitely the way to continue the hobby and the lasting friendships that come with it.

This is huge too. The s-chassis community in the U.S. has become saturated with people with the attitude of a Ferrari owner, but the car of a McDonalds employee. Stop being stuck of pricks and welcome people into the scene and show them the correct path. I love when people approach me about my car... I enjoy that somebody else seems to find it cool. Sometimes the attitudes I witness when n00bs approach from others leaves me questioning if I really belong in this scene anymore.

[Dutchmalmiss]

Had my S13 since 2003. First car in high school; 16th birthday present from my Dad. Had an SR swapped in it as well. I was definitely "that guy" the "the car" haha.

Being broke, the exterior was completely stock down to the steelies, so I was a sleeper by default. Great times. Now it's a garage queen. Priorities have changed, but it's hard for me to let go. I have a connection with it due to my dad loving it as much as I did. He passed away and letting it go has been tougher since then.

After 2 theft attempts, I'm nearly forced to let go of it for the sake of not letting it happen at least to me. With that said, it's been a passion to me to drive. My therapy so to speak. Each dent, ding, scratch over the last 13 years has a story behind it and I love that. Fuck feelings haha.

[CamryOnBronze]

This is huge too. The s-chassis community in the U.S. has become saturated with people with the attitude of a Ferrari owner, but the car of a McDonalds employee. Stop being stuck of pricks and welcome people into the scene and show them the correct path. I love when people approach me about my car... I enjoy that somebody else seems to find it cool. Sometimes the attitudes I witness when n00bs approach from others leaves me questioning if I really belong in this scene anymore.

I feel like a large part of it is probably the fact that people rarely seem to meet and communicate in person anymore. Maybe I am just getting old and don't have time to go to events anymore, but sometimes it feels like a lot of the casual gatherings and whatnot have fizzled out in favor of social media. That could entirely be me getting old and being out of the loop though, haha.

But you're right- I love when people message me with questions or talk to me about the car and what their plans are. Sure, sometimes it can cause me to raise an eyebrow, but there's enjoyment in trying to show someone the right path (not necessarily make them conform, but give them an idea of what things may be a good idea and what things they will end up regretting later.)

It took me parting out my S13 and selling the shell after my first daughter was born (because it seemed like the "normal" thing to do) to realize how much I enjoyed and appreciated my S13. I couldn't be happier to have the car back again. Definitely here to stay this time.

[lunchmeat]

It took me parting out my S13 and selling the shell after my first daughter was born (because it seemed like the "normal" thing to do) to realize how much I enjoyed and appreciated my S13. I couldn't be happier to have the car back again. Definitely here to stay this time.

I still feel like I made the biggest mistake when I sold my kouki back in 09, after 9 years with that car. It wasn't perfect. It had quirks. But it was mine and I let it go in favor of being "a responsible adult". So now that I finally have another one and I'm a bit more financially capable, I'm going to make this one what I wanted with the first. And I'll be damned I let this one go as easy, or even at all.

[OBEEWON]

I stay true to MY vision, I didn't build something for someone else, I pushed my own boundaries.


If youve had your car from more than 5 years you would remember how good you would feel when Mr Meph/ Bh OR anyone else that you looked up to ( by this I mean had a cool car or treated people with respect) gave you positive rep, and how you hated having negative rep, it was almost like a real life reputation, if you said something stupid or disrespected people be prepared for negative rep.


These seem to conflict?

[scottie]

But you're right- I love when people message me with questions or talk to me about the car and what their plans are. Sure, sometimes it can cause me to raise an eyebrow, but there's enjoyment in trying to show someone the right path (not necessarily make them conform, but give them an idea of what things may be a good idea and what things they will end up regretting later.)



I feel the same way. It is when you make an honest effort to show someone the right path, give solid, experienced advice and even 'lead by example' with your own vehicle and they simply blow it off. The next thing you know they continue down the path of ruining what was once a beautiful Nissan in stock form. I get frustrated; call it jaded by these experiences because when I was their age (god that felt old to say) I would listen, ask specific questions and implement what I learned from those experienced. Today this doesn't seem to be as common as it once was. At times I have to step away and reset my perspective. I must say I am less helpful to those who I know will not take it and focus on those who are making an honest attempt to improve the scene.

[GoodShow]

These seem to conflict?

Let me elaborate. the post about the rep system was more about the positive rep you would build for contributing new threads that didn't exist before, adding quality content, basically stating that rude behavior or becoming ( a hoonigan fuckboi, or whatever is the term for the type of people people credit with ruining things these days) was corrected by your peers on zilvia. Not everything everyone does meets the approval of others, or is done for their approval.

But when you are starting out, and you admire other people for the way they have built their cars, or conduct themselves and treat others, and they give you positive feedback or rep based on the way you conduct yourself on here, it motivates you to get your shit together.

Once this system was abolished, everyone that disagreed with you doing hoodrat shit, or basically doing things half assed, became a hater, and having people that were deemed haters somehow became a badge of success, like the more haters you have the better you must be because they must just be jealous. So there really is not anyone to keep them in check, and with so many things moving toward facebook groups, no one keeps anyone in check, they don't have moderators.

That is basically what I was getting at with those statements. I hope that clears that up.

[GoodShow]

I feel the same way. It is when you make an honest effort to show someone the right path, give solid, experienced advice and even 'lead by example' with your own vehicle and they simply blow it off. The next thing you know they continue down the path of ruining what was once a beautiful Nissan in stock form. I get frustrated; call it jaded by these experiences because when I was their age (god that felt old to say) I would listen, ask specific questions and implement what I learned from those experienced. Today this doesn't seem to be as common as it once was. At times I have to step away and reset my perspective. I must say I am less helpful to those who I know will not take it and focus on those who are making an honest attempt to improve the scene.


That makes sense. I think you are talking about the people that creat threads for "what color should I paint my car? what wheels should I run"

[ryandriftingfat]

But you're right- I love when people message me with questions or talk to me about the car and what their plans are. Sure, sometimes it can cause me to raise an eyebrow, but there's enjoyment in trying to show someone the right path (not necessarily make them conform, but give them an idea of what things may be a good idea and what things they will end up regretting later.)

This is literally the only reason I talk to people about 240's that are not at Willow with me at that moment. Because the info they get from other people is almost always wrong. I've seen most if not all, let me show the quickest way from A to B. There used to be a time I tried to convince people to go with a 240 (partly selfish on my part so I'd have more 240 drivers to hang out with). Those days are LOOOONG over.

[ixfxi]

Great read- definitely agree with a lot of what's being said. Helping people and avoiding hostility to newcomers is definitely the way to continue the hobby and the lasting friendships that come with it.

Yes, I agree. But I just wanted to add and say FUCK ALL THOSE NEW SCHOOL MOTHER FUCKERS.


Pics ouf our cars now?

Uhm. What is with all that multi color bullshit? Weirdo.

[Dutchmalmiss]

Yes, I agree. But I just wanted to add and say FUCK ALL THOSE NEW SCHOOL MOTHER FUCKERS.




Uhm. What is with all that multi color bullshit? Weirdo.

Agreed 1000000%

Are we considered "old school" or people with better taste? I don't know exactly how to label the new-gen owners either. They're either fickle and get bored and re-sell quick, can't drive for shit and are dwindling what s-chassis cars are left, or both.

[GoodShow]

ixfi and Dutch are ruthless, I just figured maybe he listened to the grateful dead or yes, and were just expressing that interest.

But you guys are ruthless. lol

[OG_89twoforty]

My first car was an 89 240 handed down from my aunt through my cousins. This car was bought by my aunt and kept in the family. That was 1999, Hondas were the thing and people laughed at my slow 240. I've had 7 s13 and I just bought my first s14 this week. I'm sick and tired of finding s13 covered in stickers from a kid who thinks he is the next DK. Back in my days we worked hard to buy nice things and we took care of them. Overall most of the community I have met are decent. It's the jerks that show off while doing donuts on the freeway that give us enthusiast a bad name. Shots out to all the OG's

[txnla]

Great thread everyone, so I felt like this was a good time to submit my first post.

I am a rarity in the community. My claim to fame is that I am the original owner of a champagne gold, 1995 240SX SE which I bought new in the Summer of 1995 in Houston and it has been by daily driver all this time. The car was manufactured in 11/94 and had around 300 miles on it when I bought it. Today I have just under 139K miles. It has always been dealer serviced save for the upgrades I have done to it. At the time I bought it, I had never heard of a Silvia or a GTR, I just thought it was a great looking car that I could actually afford in my mid-20s. After my trade in, I only paid $16K for it brand new. It came with all the options except for leather, limited slip and anti-lock brakes.

In '99, I moved to SoCal and lived there till 2014 when I moved back to Texas. Around 2002, I was thinking about trading it in for a 350Z or a G35 coupe, but around that time a few things happened which made me decide to keep the car: 1) drifting became popular so the 240s had a resurgence in popularity, 2) I began researching and learning about what kind of car it was in Japan and the rest of the world, and 3) SoCal was the mecca for owning this car due to parts availability and the local knowledge base.

So I decided to keep the car because I still thought it was a great looking car and I began tracking down what seemed to be the less popular (at the time) dealer optional parts from Japan like lighted aluminum kick plates and lighted side window visors. I was never interested in drifting it, I just wanted to "freshen" it up with factory parts to keep it interesting for me and keep it looking clean. I’ll admit during this time, I got on to the forums to learn more about the S14, but quickly lost interest (no offense to anyone) because most folks at that time were only interested in the SR swap, more horse power, and anything “cosmetic” was blasted by folks as “bling”.

At that point, I decided to do my own thing. I tracked down all the dealer optional parts I wanted and even finally had leather installed in the interior. I began to notice the use of LED’s on taillights and being a gadget guy, I wondered if I could do that on my car. I shyed away from the rebased LED bulbs and poor quality after market altezza lights and then found Mike (ixfxi) at clearcorners. Clearcorners built my first set of lights for the whole car: front and rear, inside and out. In a way it modernized the car, which I really liked. As Mike said earlier on this thread, he has owned his S13 for 20 years, so he was already very knowledgeable about the S chassis when we became friends.

Fast forward to today and the car has been modified extensively but primarily with Nissan parts from either other Nissan models (s13, s15, Z32, R32-34) or Nismo. I was never impressed with the 240s held together with zip ties so I never want to have that kind of a car. I wanted mine to be very clean and look stock. The folks that know the car would notice all the little details, but I wanted other folks to say “wow that car is really clean and looks totally stock”. Needless to say, the techs and service team at the dealerships love to see my car and have always taken good care of it for me.

The short list of upgrades include, AEM intake, Fujitsubo exhaust, Nismo suspension (all bushings, suspension link components, sway bars, and braces), Nismo S-Tune shocks/springs, R33 GTR Brembo brakes F/R, R34 GTR Vspec front seats, S13 HICAS steering rack, S15 Helical diff, S15 Spec R steering wheel, and R33 GTR wheels (daily driver). In 2008, I did the kouki swap with all Japanese factory parts: fenders, hood, bumpers, side skirts rear valence and the optional front lip. After the kouki swap, I also had clearcorners build a new set of lights front and rear which are spectacular looking since they use the factory light assemblies and look like they came from the factory.

At the end of 2012 I began autocrossing in it. This is great for me because I have tons of brakes, lots of suspension, along with the upgraded steering and diff. It’s not wheel to wheel racing so I’m not worried about crashing it and I get to actually drive it the way you shouldn’t on the street.

Now for the hating...basically everything has been done to the car EXCEPT the engine. That’s right, I’m still running the stock KA (save for the intake and catback)…AND…it’s an automatic. Everyone asks/assumes I’ve done the SR swap. I never wanted to in California because I didn’t want to deal with the legality issue nor did I want a 5 speed. I still don’t want a 5 speed since it’s my daily driver. Plus, I’ve always felt like “the patient is healthy so I don’t want to give her a transplant”. After all these years, I enjoy having this older car that is well maintained. I like to say anyone can go buy a new car, but to keep a car up after 20+ years and it be your daily driver…well, that says something about the owner. I also enjoy the occasional thumbs up from other drivers on the road and folks asking “what kind of car is this?”. But my favorite compliment recently was at an autocross event where a couple 18 year old drivers were looking at my car and said “wow – we’ve never seen one of these in person. We’ve only seen it in the movies.”

Anyway, that’s my story…long time listener, first time caller. Pics below from the last couple years – most are autocross related, but you get the idea. Enjoy.

http://www.clearcorners.com/temp/ml10.jpg
http://www.clearcorners.com/temp/ml11.jpg
http://www.clearcorners.com/temp/ml09.jpg
http://www.clearcorners.com/temp/ml01.jpg
http://www.clearcorners.com/temp/ml02.jpg
http://www.clearcorners.com/temp/ml03.jpg
http://www.clearcorners.com/temp/ml04.jpg
http://www.clearcorners.com/temp/ml05.jpg
http://www.clearcorners.com/temp/ml06.jpg
http://www.clearcorners.com/temp/ml08.jpg

[ixfxi]

One of my neighbors is this kid. When I moved into the neighborhood he was 7, now he's going to be turning 16 soon... and driving. I mention this because I notice that his behavior and enthusiasm is rather similar to some of us who come and go. For example, when he was younger he was into those little bullshit scooters, doing all types of tricks. Then he scratched that after a bit and got into skateboards, scratched that and then into bicycles, scratch that and now he's into athletic shit like track and field, and I can bet that the minute he gets his first car he's going to be head over heels into that.

That is the majority of users who have made accounts on this forum and countless others. The dudes that are in it for a brief period, do some trendy shit to their car because its fun, go to events and meet people because its fun. But life and responsibilities change, and cars become a less important thing - for some of us. Others here have careers in the industry, or are just bat-shit crazy about cars. I'd say that this demographic is less than 10%.

Me personally, I am involved in the industry and I have a deep rooted desire to modify and tweak things... whether it be hifi audio, cars, or anything else technical, I like to have projects to tinker with. I like to research, modify, and re-create. Trends and scene mean absolutely nothing to me. Even when I hear people say KOUKI I cringe because it just very trendy. KOUKI what, KOUKI S13 or S14? Just say the fucking year, 89-90, 91-94, 96-98. TYPE X tail lights, fucking type S and R had the same tail lights, dumb fucks.

The rep system was funny on here though, because one day it would be good and after a provocative post or two, my rep would go into the shitter. Funny, no mod/admin ever mentioned why that feature was removed. I agree with the rest, I dig the rep system.

As for being nice to people and helping the noobs, its all relative. I believe you should help the people that show appreciation and true interest. Just because we happen to own the same car doesnt entitle you to shit, and I'll be damned if I am going to share the info that I've had to scour the internet and pour into excel docs with some douche who doesnt deserve it. Those who have careers in this industry know how time consuming it is to acquire part numbers, vendors, pricing, etc. Fuck that, no hand outs here unless you deserve it or have something to offer.

[ixfxi]

hey... whats with the moderator approval here for n00bs posting. we've got a long time 240 lurker who's been on zilvia since 2003 with 0 posts who wants to use this thread to introduce himself. his post is pending approval.

come on mods, you guys are slipping. this isnt just a job, its an adventure.

[Future240]

^^No idea why that is happening. Have the user PM me.

[CamryOnBronze]

I should clarify that you can usually tell a lot about a person's character when they reach out to you for advice. It's usually easy to see based on a person's sentence structure if they have a good head on their shoulders or not. Let's just say I am all for helping people out that ask, but some people might get more help than others.

[ixfxi]

Anyway, that’s my story…long time listener, first time caller. Pics below from the last couple years – most are autocross related, but you get the idea. Enjoy.

Now the question is, who here would be able to guess where your license plate came from! I know its removed from the pics but it sure makes good trivia and probably another reason why we're friends. Not too many people appreciate the crude and crass humor of..... you know who.

I am curious in the next X amount of years, what the dealer is going to tell you when parts are no longer available. "So Mark, its been 20+ years... you STILL not ready to trade this car in for a NISSAN GTR? How bout a NISSAN Leaf? 0% interest for the first 2 years!"

If this car ever leaves your hands, the next owner better make sure not to do something stupid like install an LS engine in it. It'll remind me of the end of Gran Torino where he talks about not installing a wing on the car. I vote for auto SR or bust.

[Agent240sx]

Great thread everyone, so I felt like this was a good time to submit my first post....


Anyway, that’s my story…long time listener, first time caller. Pics below from the last couple years – most are autocross related, but you get the idea. Enjoy.


That is awesome, joined 2003... 13 years later first post. Hats off to you, Beautiful car :bigok:

[nightwalker]

Amazing car txnla, and amazing build.

[Future240]

Wow.


Txnla, seeing your post makes me even more ashamed for the state that my S14 is in.

[Agamemnon]

Great looking car. Nice work.

Lets see some of those optional JDM factory parts.

[DJTTon]

Great looking car. Nice work.

Lets see some of those optional JDM factory parts.

I second that. You picked a good thread to post it, screw the Introduce Yourself thread for this one :p

[txnla]

Lets see some of those optional JDM factory parts.

Thanks everyone for the positive feedback. I'll take some interior pics and post some additional photos soon. I was told recently by an S14 owner (who did an LS1 swap to make his a drag car) that mine was the first 240SX he had ever seen without a cracked dash.

Anything is possible with enough time, $$, and when you garage and/or cover the car all these years. Trust me, there have been plenty of times in the past when I've said to myself I should sell the car and start over - but I'm glad I've resisted the urge.

[CamryOnBronze]

Wow, very cool! Awesome story and a beautiful car.

[Umi_R98]

I do envy all those 240s that have a perfect dash, I myself am looking for an auto upholsterer to get my dash redone.

[5280VertDET]

Ugh, going around FB groups like Hoonigonorrhea :

Chris Lee
May 13 at 11:02am ·
An open letter to the 18-25 year old car guys/gals.

(Read before responding)

Overall you guys are kind of dicks. The constant need to buck the system…the mentality that this whole world is yours….the fact that you do these ridiculous modifications to your cars…all in an effort to define yourself…it’s crazy. But you know what….The generation before you…they were dicks too..Yep, they wont tell you, but in the 90’s there were slammed, ugly cars loaded with stickers….whether it was American, Japanese or Euro..there was always a mix of tasteful and obnoxious. And in the 80’s lolol..Google the whole graphics craze… look up mini trucks…google mullets and Camaros…you’ll laugh. The ones before them…even WORSE. And so on.

Don’t let these purists, or grumpy guys who’s glory years are gone convince you for a second that you’re the problem alone in this car scene. Don’t let them tell you “the way it was was better”. Things change, and every generation does the best with what they have at the time. They’re no different. The same ones who are busting your chops are RARELY making an effort to teach you guys. They’re not trying to learn either. They forget that when they were your age, the cops chased them down just as much. The loud exhaust always passed neighbors off, they drove just as reckless and I assure you, a majority of these 4000 pound cars were not nearly as fast as they claim they were.

A lot of these guys claim to be Hot Rodders…car enthusiasts, gearheads…mechanics.. Well Hot Rodding was ALWAYS about bucking the system. Realizing that this world IS yours, and those ridiculous modifications that you do to define yourself, they’re fine (just try to do it safely so you don’t hurt yourself or others).

You guys busting all the younger generations chops need to realize, you may have the money…you may have the experience…but the next generation has the most precious commodity of them all…TIME. And in time they’ll learn. But if you want to keep the car culture strong, the previous generations need to step up to the plate and lead by example. Stop bashing rides, stop being keyboard tough guys, stop thinking your way is the only and best way…because it isn’t…and this scene isn’t yours forever.

Leave a legacy or get written out of history

Sincerely,

Chris Lee - the 35 year old gear head who can appreciate a Model A…. or a Nissan Skyline. Just don’t be a dick.

‪#‎blasfamous‬

[Bluejayde]

When I bought my second S14 in 2007 I thought it was a piece of shit. And it kinda was. But I got through college and kept trying to improve it and now, after 7 years in the garage, it's a collector's piece and I get offers all the time. I tell them all I have too much time and money invested, and you would laugh at my price. I'm here for the long haul- full body restoration? Yes, please.

https://scontent-dfw1-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/13226990_865346577817_8297769928575588039_n.jpg?oh =60a5d090b0f42a135c66b7a1bdfab53d&oe=57A30C4B

[KiLLeR2001]

Thanks everyone for the positive feedback. I'll take some interior pics and post some additional photos soon. I was told recently by an S14 owner (who did an LS1 swap to make his a drag car) that mine was the first 240SX he had ever seen without a cracked dash.

Anything is possible with enough time, $$, and when you garage and/or cover the car all these years. Trust me, there have been plenty of times in the past when I've said to myself I should sell the car and start over - but I'm glad I've resisted the urge.

Very nice car. I'm so use to seeing the champagne gold color faded... but yours still has a lot of depth.

I am a bit surprised you didn't opt to get the OEM S14 kouki German glass headlights (similar in construction as the JDM headlights but with proper LHD beam pattern).

[txnla]

I am a bit surprised you didn't opt to get the OEM S14 kouki German glass headlights (similar in construction as the JDM headlights but with proper LHD beam pattern).

I did have the German glass 95-95 zenki headlights a looong time ago before they were easier to buy here. A friend of mine met a guy from Germany around 2002 who, coincidentally, owned a body shop in Germany. So he ordered the headlights in Germany and then shipped them here. As I recall, no beam pattern changes were needed on the German lights because their cars are LHD like the US.

When I did the kouki conversion, I sold those and installed the glass USDM 97-98 headlights. Had I used the JDM 97-98 lights, then a beam pattern correction would have been needed due to JDM being RHD.

Here are some before/after pics of my car in bone stock form compared to the 97-98 swap I did in 2008. I learned the champagne gold color was only an option in the US in 95-96, but not on the 97-98 models in the US. And it was never an option in Japan for any S14s that I could find in any Japanese S14 brochures. I briefly worried about that color combo with this body, but couldn't have been happier with the results.

http://i411.photobucket.com/albums/pp192/txnla_s14/240SX%20Silvia%20before%20after%201.jpg

http://i411.photobucket.com/albums/pp192/txnla_s14/240SX%20Silvia%20before%20after%202.jpg

[ixfxi]

I am a bit surprised you didn't opt to get the OEM S14 kouki German glass headlights (similar in construction as the JDM headlights but with proper LHD beam pattern).

Because those are inferior to what he has, Stevie-Steve.

[KiLLeR2001]

Here are some before/after pics of my car in bone stock form compared to the 97-98 swap I did in 2008. I learned the champagne gold color was only an option in the US in 95-96, but not on the 97-98 models in the US. And it was never an option in Japan for any S14s that I could find in any Japanese S14 brochures. I briefly worried about that color combo with this body, but couldn't have been happier with the results.

That is correct. The #EM1 Champagne Gold color was never offered on the JDM S14's. For the '97-'98 240sx models they switched to the #KR5 Silver Moss color, another color option not offered with JDM S14's.

[Artworks]

I have had my car since 2008. Living in Asia, in (Brunei to be specific) we have pretty much all the jdm cars that people lusting over, cefiros, galant, s15 spec R, evo 3,4,5,6, skylines, etc. The reason why I was into 240sx was due to watching drifter x street drifting in some random dvd in 03-04. Took me quite a while back then figuring out why are the cars called 240sx in videos,games,magazines,etc when we have 180sx/200sx here lol.

Believe it or not, us (living in Asia) look up to americans in terms of build quality back then.

[GoodShow]

I have had my car since 2008. Living in Asia, in (Brunei to be specific) we have pretty much all the jdm cars that people lusting over, cefiros, galant, s15 spec R, evo 3,4,5,6, skylines, etc. The reason why I was into 240sx was due to watching drifter x street drifting in some random dvd in 03-04. Took me quite a while back then figuring out why are the cars called 240sx in videos,games,magazines,etc when we have 180sx/200sx here lol.

Believe it or not, us (living in Asia) look up to americans in terms of build quality back then.


I bet that video was called Hashiriya .

[haveblue]

I sold mine 4 years ago when I moved. I sorta regret it, I had already grown out of it, or at least, DDing a modified car.
Every once in a while I consider contacting the buyer and seeing if they still have it and get it back. But even if I was willing to pay double to get it back, not sure what I would do with it. There are better track weapons out there now, and showing up at meets once in a while isn't worth keeping a car around for. Its not a great DD, too stiff with my mods, and too easy to kick out the rear, no ABS, or airbags, squeaks and rattles galore, plus its a ripe theft target these days.
Maybe I got old for all that (I did).
Anyway, still my favorite 'fun' car. If I was going to do it again It would be LS swap for effortless speed and steerable suspension mods with OEM looks. S13 SE, no sunroof, wing delete.

[MrMigs]

...Believe it or not, us (living in Asia) look up to americans in terms of build quality back then.

And now? :2f2f:

[wanadrift]

Interesting thread. I sort of wanted a 240sx for about 10 years. (always been a Z freak) I lurked here and freshalloy for a long time. Before that I had a few eclipses and wanted to get into the Honda crowd but never pulled the trigger. I've only had my 240 that I own now for about 8 months. I had one a few years ago briefly but it was a pile and sold it as soon as I got it. I've had roughly the same idea for a build for the past decade and I'm just now getting around to it. There are people around that will do a clean build but yeah these cars aren't nearly as important to the 16-20year olds as they are to us closer to 30 and older. Then again most of us older guys were starting to mod cars when there was only forums available and car domain was the major social media outlet for cars. Instagram, youtube, and facebook have totally changed the game and many are doing it to MAKE money from view so naturally they have to do what's trendy or what will garner a lot of attention to generate traffic.

[Quail]

Txnla, your car is awesome. Good to see someone still enjoying their car and keeping it so clean after 1XX,XXX miles!

[Artworks]

I bet that video was called Hashiriya .

I've googled it, it actually is! brings back so many memories.

http://i28.photobucket.com/albums/c242/hadieroseli/IMG_20140808_180802_zps3e97e42b.jpg (http://s28.photobucket.com/user/hadieroseli/media/IMG_20140808_180802_zps3e97e42b.jpg.html)
300k+ actual milage on the chassis. i hope i could do a fully body restoration

[Corbic]

And now? :2f2f:



Honestly, we still put them to shame.

Everything we do here is 190%.

[Artworks]

The grass is always greener on the other side

[MrMigs]

Honestly, we still put them to shame.

Everything we do here is 190%.

https://www.fanduel.com/insider/wp-content/uploads/usachant.jpg

[monkichi57]

I like this thread. Glad to see people still care for their S-chassis. I'll share my story about mine.

My S14 was purchased by my mother back brand new in '96 from the dealer (still have the dealer sticker, manuals etc.). As a kid (19 at the time), did the relatively lower-priced, but legit options (eibach springs, aftermarket audio w/aftermarket tweeter modified to fit oem location, 17" rims and Apexi Exhaust, OEM mudguards) but kept it legal as I didn't want to have my mother get into trouble as it was still technically hers at that time. It stayed that way for a while, especially while I was away (moved out).

(back in 97)
https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Gb-Z9a7QoHY/SHsOSowGjRI/AAAAAAAAADM/m4pyeSJElGg_GJYFi2H39tgc1xXBcBffACCo/s800/240SX.jpg

When I got it back from her (back in '08), I wanted it as a fun daily as I promised her that I intend to keep it indefinitely. Tried to keep it as something I want to grow old with and still keep the fun factor.
Did a lot to the car engine-wise, SR'd, but still kept the creature comforts (AC, cruise, ABS, etc), and still tried to keep it simple and clean in appearance. I'm debating to put the navan wing as i've been holding it for years, but not sure. Still kept it within legal limits with HI standards as I don't want the hassle with the law either. I'm planning on painting it again as clear is fading, but will be keeping it the OEM FN2 color.

Along the way, i've gotten help by a lot of people, and I try to help out from my experiencses, but I just didn't like how some of the new crowd asking if I do stupid shit and they be all cocky like you gotta drift it or still needs moar low. I just say thank you and go my merry way as I like how it is as it is.

At one point, I was almost forced to sell it, but fortunately, I was able to keep it. I do get asked about selling it sometime, but keeping it in the long-haul. Too sentimental for me to let go. Will still mod, but will be keeping it tasteful.

(Current status)
https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-sXpC9jNCRGg/UX96eb1uMqI/AAAAAAAAaH8/zUQqNjpbuLQEanMTi2uZBFIffNrdL2SNQCCo/s800/20130429_165758%2B-%2Bmod.jpg

[ellopuppet]

I bought my first 240 back in 2006.

When i picked her up. Blown KA24DE swapped in an SR basic bolt ons

http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b96/aggrosk8er13/IMG_0028.jpg (http://s17.photobucket.com/user/aggrosk8er13/media/IMG_0028.jpg.html)

This is how she ended up

http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b96/aggrosk8er13/IMG_0800.jpg (http://s17.photobucket.com/user/aggrosk8er13/media/IMG_0800.jpg.html)

http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b96/aggrosk8er13/IMG_0803.jpg (http://s17.photobucket.com/user/aggrosk8er13/media/IMG_0803.jpg.html)

Picked up an s14 a few years later. ended up having frame damage and parted it out.

https://scontent-dfw1-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/1044275_685773928105522_133695546_n.jpg?oh=bf2cf69 3e599e0ea591186e8a351a7f9&oe=57CD3D06

Got a coupe later on down the road. Wish i would of left it alone.

https://scontent-dfw1-1.xx.fbcdn.net/t31.0-8/322272_519545534728363_1736730529_o.jpg

https://scontent-dfw1-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/74822_525407340808849_1506043545_n.jpg?oh=658765f9 95ab91bf4be09e0a25d4cb74&oe=579C4DD1

http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b96/aggrosk8er13/IMG_0811.jpg (http://s17.photobucket.com/user/aggrosk8er13/media/IMG_0811.jpg.html)

how she ended up

http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b96/aggrosk8er13/1015881_678292722186976_2087929879_o.jpg (http://s17.photobucket.com/user/aggrosk8er13/media/1015881_678292722186976_2087929879_o.jpg.html)

and the day she left

https://scontent-dfw1-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/12794623_1302817836401125_1529376804805195102_n.jp g?oh=bd0e48dfb1ba1f96389dcc559b304890&oe=579C6D43

Now im inbetween if i want to get another s13 or shoot for a GTS-T or GTS-4, I have been wanting to do a four door build for ages.

[ze12o]

Not exactly 10 years but long time coming. Bought first 240 89 fastback 5 spd 112k red pignose lip, sponge wing and everything back in 2007. Bone stock for 600 dollars. At that point in life i was searching day in and day out. When i went to pick up the car the guy didnt even finish his coffee he made while posting it. I was in love. Back then the game was a lot more respected and close knit. I miss those days..

Ive owned 2 more before i sold it. 92 se and a 93 (hicas,abs and leather) rare but it was a junk box. I still kept my first love lol. Until my 4th and current s13. I bought my cousins s13 with 42k miles bone stock and had to sell my beloved 89. Sold it to a friend and a month later she was stolen. I was heart broken. Then a few years later my new one was involved im a hit and run. Took the chance and slapped on the oem kouki aero and build it right.

I hate the new scene now. People try too hard to get internet famous. Dropped so low you can't drive the car. Build a "race" car that doesn't go. Drop a rally car. Stance this airbag that. Fake rims here cheap tires there. I'm done ranting

[ixfxi]

^ too young to rant. min age requirement not met.

[Corbic]

Not exactly 10 years but long time coming. Bought first 240 89 fastback 5 spd 112k red pignose lip, sponge wing and everything back in 2007. Bone stock for 600 dollars. At that point in life i was searching day in and day out. When i went to pick up the car the guy didnt even finish his coffee he made while posting it. I was in love. Back then the game was a lot more respected and close knit. I miss those days..

Pretty sure most would argue those "nostalgia" days ended in 2005.

Ive owned 2 more before i sold it. 92 se and a 93 (hicas,abs and leather) rare but it was a junk box. I still kept my first love lol. Until my 4th and current s13. I bought my cousins s13 with 42k miles bone stock and had to sell my beloved 89. Sold it to a friend and a month later she was stolen. I was heart broken. Then a few years later my new one was involved im a hit and run. Took the chance and slapped on the oem kouki aero and build it right.

I never understood this. Why do people need to own 4-10 of the same car? I've owned the same S13 for +11 years.

I hate the new scene now. People try too hard to get internet famous. Dropped so low you can't drive the car. Build a "race" car that doesn't go. Drop a rally car. Stance this airbag that. Fake rims here cheap tires there. I'm done ranting


Buy a Mustang. That Texas scene is straight Midnight Wagan. GT500 vs GTR vs Gallardo vs Cobra

[lunchmeat]

I'm on my third. Traded in my s13 for an s14, drove that for 9 years, then sold it to buy a truck. Still regret it, so I bought another s14. If I could go back, I would still have my first s14.

[Quail]

I never understood this. Why do people need to own 4-10 of the same car? I've owned the same S13 for +11 years

I've never understood this either; I get so attached to my cars that I could never be that promiscuous!

[Corbic]

I'm on my third. Traded in my s13 for an s14, drove that for 9 years, then sold it to buy a truck. Still regret it, so I bought another s14. If I could go back, I would still have my first s14.



I get that. S13 and S14 are different cars.

I see guys all the time bragging how they've owned a dozen S13s or some shit, sometimes multiples at one time. Of course all of them are shit boxes.

My friends theory always was these guys buy cars for the minimum going rate. Then they don't maintain them, and sell them the minute problems arise. Rinse Repeat.

[lunchmeat]

That would explain the multitude of shitbox cars. The one I picked up isn't perfect, but it's sure better than most.

[Dutchmalmiss]

Another reason why I hold onto my S13. Everything on the market is either salvaged, maroon or white, horribly built, or all of the above.

[ze12o]

I'm 25 years old but grumpy like a 80 year old. In my defense I only sold my first 89 in favor of a rust free low mile 93! The other two were bought more for parts then to drive. I owned my current one for over 5 years. Not trying to brag just telling my story. A lot of people assume since I'm younger that I have no respect for these cars, people couldn't be more wrong. Im attached to my car and won't ever sell it if I can help it. I grew up with a lot of older cousins, most were into cars. I guess I caught the back end of that nostalgic era through them. I respect the Mustang just don't like how they drive and can't see myself in one.

[ze12o]

This is how it sits now http://s33.postimg.org/hf58ddmrz/20160406_200709.jpg
http://s33.postimg.org/qlnj0ns0f/20160309_183520.jpg

[Future240]

I get that. S13 and S14 are different cars.

I see guys all the time bragging how they've owned a dozen S13s or some shit, sometimes multiples at one time. Of course all of them are shit boxes.

My friends theory always was these guys buy cars for the minimum going rate. Then they don't maintain them, and sell them the minute problems arise. Rinse Repeat.

I could see an argument for owner multiple cars for different styles. For instance I have a kouki S14. I'd like to have


Rb25 jdm kouki
s14 SR20 zenki with german glass headlights and navan body
Sr20 S13 " Type X" Hatch
ka-t S13 instant gentleman coupe.


Now the types that just buy and wreck s-chassis I don't understand. I'm not going to break up with a chick just to fuck her twin sister.

[1993fdrx7]

Any of you guys going to the indy 500'?

[Corbic]

Any of you guys going to the indy 500'?



Fuck no!!!

[MrMigs]

Fuck no!!!

ahahahah lol :facepalm:

[1993fdrx7]

Sorry thought y'all liked to party. Haha


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[ixfxi]

http://s33.postimg.org/qlnj0ns0f/20160309_183520.jpg

did i build those rear lights? whoever built them - looks nice

[djfiniki]

Lmao


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[CamryOnBronze]

This is how it sits now http://s33.postimg.org/hf58ddmrz/20160406_200709.jpg
http://s33.postimg.org/qlnj0ns0f/20160309_183520.jpg

Dude! That thing looks seriously awesome. Love the color!

[ze12o]

did i build those rear lights? whoever built them - looks nice
Haha, I wish I could afford your work. I built them myself, obviously inspired by your build. :coolugh:
Dude! That thing looks seriously awesome. Love the color!

Thanks! It's been a long time coming. Litterally blood, sweat and tears. Color took forever to pick but I'm glad I spent the extra time to pick and modify it.

[ixfxi]

Haha, I wish I could afford your work. I built them myself, obviously inspired by your build. :coolugh:

looks good, and thats all that matters!

i always tip my hat off to anyone who actually does their own work. i am sure now you have a better understanding for the amount of work, let alone the risks in doing a job like that.

nice work

[lunchmeat]

Damn that's pretty. What color is that?

[BlackTopTurbo]

I got my first 240 at 19 and have only been in this scene for 3 years, but I really wanted to vent my experience with s-chassis owners of my generation.

Half ass:
It needs a gasket I don't have, cardboard will do
I'm missing a screw, a zip tie will do
I'm not using those wires, but I'll just leave em hanging there
It's got a leak..meh, it's only a 'small' leak
I swear, so many guys just don't want to do shit the right way, there's always a shortcut.
This sucks because most guys that sell/buy 240's are like this, so when you get one you gotta sift through all the bullshit they rigged up and fix it.

Messing with the recipe/all over the place:
It's simple, get a car, do service and maintenance, then suspension components.
Its so fucking easy and you can add all the upgrades you want after, and you'll have a reliable platform to start with. Why wouldn't you want that?! Everyone wants to start off somewhere stupid like doing a silvia front with banged up fenders, then turbo their ka without a tune, next is rattle can paint, springs are cut but they wanna get strut bars, time for a cage because why the fuck not, etc. Then their engine blows and it's up for sale as one of the many shitboxes you see on your local FB group.

Overdoing it:
I feel like the only way your car is recognized as 'baller' is if your bay is tubbed/tubed & you're rocking over fenders with some crazy ass deep dished wheels. What's wrong with stock bodies and wheels that fit? It makes me sad when guys cut up perfectly straight bodies, such a waste.

LS's:
I know this is a sensitive subject, but I fucking hate LS swaps. I don't care if it's more reliable, cheaper, easier to acquire parts, it's fucking lame. It totally kills everything cool about these cars and what attracted me to them in the first place.


Thank you ! ! ! Preachh bro, I absolutely hate seeing 240's with LS swaps in them. Whats the point of having a 240 if you dont keep it NISSAN ! Originality..

[Sileighty_85]

I was a offroad/Jeep guy up till I joined the AF and was stationed in Okinawa back in 04. My first Import was a 96 R33. Fell in love with imports after that. Sold that bought an AE86 and "built" that, the rest most of yall know that look through build threads and happen to stumble across mine.

Never paid attention to the scene just did my own thing (and still do) until 07 to when I came back the US.


Became friends with 5 other S-chassis ppl that were in Louisiana. We were the only S-chassis enthusiasts in town, the local Euro guys tried cracking jokes at us for drifting. Then 2-3 years later those same guys bought S13's and started drifting too.

Then the Honda kids/16-17 y/o tried to get into it, but they didn't really have the funds or knowledge to maintain or build a proper drift car which then spawned dumpster spec/a'int care S-chassis' and the scene there when down hill. Nobody took pride in their car.

I know im not much to talk as far as looks go since my old fast back was rattle canned and my new coupe is multicolored, as well as the other 4 cars looking a little rough. But they mechanically sound and built with quality parts and no severely smashed or dented panels. Paint will eventually happen but will be the last thing I do to them.
http://i73.photobucket.com/albums/i235/Neil_85/S13%20Silvia/lastday.jpg
(Just picked up some LMGT-2's to replace the drift wheels on here.)

I love all my cars, I've put too much time, blood, and sweat into them to ever wanna sell them. Never did understand why ppl switched cars soo much either. I cant do that, when I buy a car I don't ever wanna sell it unless the chassis is fucked up. Actually kinda bothers me to know ppl that buy and sell multiple makers, I just wanna tell them to make up their fucking mind and pick a fucking car.


As far as what ive noticed through the internet I'm hating the new owners. They are cancer for all the other new owners as well cuz they think its cool to have such shitty cars or try to be extreme cheap asses and want to try and build a fast car for under $500 with Knock off garbage shit.

I'm starting to see just about the same thing over her in japan with the new GTR owners. Surprisingly not much with S/C/A-chassis.
About 60-70% of them know nothing about the car or know how to work on it. The choices of mods and styling a questionable at best.

I feel the S-Chassis scene will keep heading down hill till the next RWD chassis becomes more affordable for the cheap asses. But I could be wrong since Ive been out of the US for the last 4 years and all I know is what I see on the internet.

But I will just keep doing my thing in hopes that I can inspire the newer generation to buy legit parts and not have a POS.

[KiLLeR2001]

Next few years there will be a lot less 240's around and by then not too many fuckbois will be left. Keep pushin' fellas, the storm is almost over.

[ze12o]

looks good, and thats all that matters!

i always tip my hat off to anyone who actually does their own work. i am sure now you have a better understanding for the amount of work, let alone the risks in doing a job like that.

nice work
Appreciate the kind words! Nerve wrecking getting brand new lights open. Whats the fun of having your own project car if youre going to just cookie cut everyone elses car and buy cheapo bolt ons.

Damn that's pretty. What color is that?
Thank you! Its a top secret custom mix :keke:

Next few years there will be a lot less 240's around and by then not too many fuckbois will be left. Keep pushin' fellas, the storm is almost over.

I believe a lot of the fuck boys here are buying ft86s now. This is a good sign for us!

[ixfxi]

Appreciate the kind words! Nerve wrecking getting brand new lights open.

and then people wonder why certain modifications are so expensive. take apart a 600 dollar set of lights for a measly 20 dollars profit? i think not. risk vs reward.

[DrftKingIII]

Taken with PotatoCam9000. Came with one of my S14's.

https://scontent-ord1-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/162607_1642915795176_3539467_n.jpg?oh=fa151161760c c0f38a7509367814fda6&oe=57CD94ED