Nissan 240SX S13/S14
1989-1998
HPDE Overview
The 240SX occupies an interesting niche in the track car world. It is a lightweight, rear-wheel-drive, front-engine platform with a multi-link rear suspension that is remarkably sophisticated for its era. The S-chassis turns in eagerly and has a natural balance that makes it easy to rotate with trail-braking. The steering is communicative, the driving position is good, and the visibility is excellent. The KA24DE engine is the weak link — 155 hp in a 2,700-lb car means you are not winning any drag races. But the engine is reliable, torquey for its displacement, and allows you to focus on driving technique rather than managing horsepower. Many 240SX track cars eventually receive SR20DET, LS, or K-series swaps to address the power deficit. The drift community has driven 240SX prices up significantly, making the "budget" designation less true than it was five years ago. Finding an unmolested example is nearly impossible — most have been modified, abused, or both. The car rewards patience in acquisition and is best approached with a thorough pre-purchase inspection.