Question: 180sx vs 240sx – 6 Differences Between These Nissan Sport Cars

If you’re a JDM sports car enthusiast, you might have heard about the Nissan 180sx and 240sx. These two were among the most popular S-Chassis models in the late ‘80s to ‘90s.

They have many similarities that can make you believe they’re twins. At a glance, the 240sx seems like an upgraded version of the 180sx, but that’s not the case. So, how different are these iconic Nissan sports cars?

Join me as I take you through the 180sx vs 240sx comparison to help you know their differences. If you’re in the market for one of them, understanding their differences will help you make an informed decision.

Answer: An Overview of the Nissan 180sx

The 180sx is a Nissan sports car made from 1989 to 1998. It was primarily meant for the Japanese domestic market (JDM) to cater to the growing demand for sporty cars. This car gained its name from its 1.8L CA18DET engine.

Nissan produced the 180sx in two generations, equipping it with unique features and upgrades. Its first generation featured the CA18DET engine that delivered 170-200 HP and 180-200 lb-ft of torque. This car had distinctive pop-up headlights that elevated its iconic appearance.

The second generation had the renowned SR20DET engine, which improved power and performance. It delivered 200-220 HP and 180-200 lb-ft of torque.

Nissan added a modern touch to this generation of 180sx. The car came with updated rear and front fascia. It also featured revised taillights, grille, and headlights.

180sx vs 240sx

Answer: An Overview of the Nissan 240sx

Nissan introduced the 240sx sports car in 1989 for the North American market. Production ended in 1998, with the company making over 2 million units. Like the 180sx, the 240sx gained its name from its 2.4L KA24E engine.

The Nissan 240sx came in two generations. The first generation (1989-1994) featured the 2.4L KA24E engine that delivered 140 HP and 152 lb-ft of torque. It was available in two versions – the hatchback or coupe.

Nissan replaced the KA24E engine with the KA24DE, rated at 155 HP and 160 lb-ft of torque. In 1992, Nissan added a convertible to the 240sx lineup. The second generation eliminated the convertible and hatchback versions.

There were notable differences like fixed headlamps, dual airbags, and manual seatbelts. Other aesthetic changes included a new front bumper, fenders, hood, and standard side skirts.

180sx vs 240sx

Answer: 180sx vs 240sx: Comparison

Feature180sx240sx
MarketJapanNorth America
Engine1.8L CA18DET1.8L SR20DET2.4L KA24E2.4L KA24DE
DesignHatchbackHatchback, coupe, and convertible
Turbocharger and SuspensionTurbochargedTorsion beam suspensionNot turbochargedIndependent rear suspension
InteriorFabric sport seats and digital climate control.Advanced audio systems, leather upholstery, and automatic restraint seatbelts.
Drivetrain and TransmissionRear-wheel driveManual transmissionRear-wheel drive and all-wheel driveManual transmission

Market

A notable difference between the Nissan 180sx and 240sx is where they were sold. Nissan 180sx was exclusively a JDM sports car, meaning it was for the Japanese auto market. It’s worth noting that the European market has a similar model, though called the 200sx.

On the other hand, the 240sx was a sports car for the North American market, with a considerable following in the US. 

The 180sx is compliant with Japanese standards but not the international market standards. That explains why Nissan designed the 240sx to comply with North American standards.

Both models are available as used sports cars from specialized dealers worldwide. Their popularity is still soaring, thanks to the strong aftermarket community. Parts are readily available for modifications and performance upgrades.

Engine

The 180sx and 240sx shared multiple aesthetic qualities, but their engines differed. The 180sx started with the 1.8L CA18DET engine in its first generation. This engine delivered 170-200 horsepower and 180-200 lb-ft of torque.

In contrast, Nissan introduced the 240sx with the 2.4L KA24E engine, which delivered 140 horsepower and 152 lb-ft of torque. Despite its bigger displacement, the 240sx was less powerful than its Japanese counterpart.

Later, Nissan upgraded the 180sx with the SR20DET engine, delivering 200 to 220 horsepower and 180 to 200 lb-ft of torque. The 240sx received the KA24DE engine with 155 horsepower and 160 lb-ft of torque.

These engines had different valve trains. The 180sx used a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC), while the 240sx used a single overhead camshaft (SOHC). However, the KA24DE engine in Nissan 240sx featured a DOHC.

Design

Nissan released the 180sx as a hatchback with pop-up headlights. In 1996, the company made several changes, adding a driver’s side airbag, tail lights, and bumpers.

The North American market had the luxury of choosing between a hatchback and coupe version of the 240sx. Like the 180sx, the 240sx hatchback featured pop-up headlights. The coupe version came with fixed headlights.

Nissan introduced a convertible version of the 240sx from 1992 to 1994. However, the company eliminated the hatchback and convertible versions of the 240sx in the 2nd generation. The 240sx coupe featured dual airbags, manual seatbelts, and fixed headlights.

Other aesthetic updates to the 240sx included new projector headlights, fenders, a front bumper, and revised taillights.

Turbocharger and Suspension

When comparing power and performance between the two engines, you’ll need to check if they’re turbocharged. The turbocharger is among the 180sx vs 240sx differences.

The 180sx engines (CA18DET and SR20DET) featured a turbocharger. On the other hand, the 240sx didn’t have a turbocharger. That explains why the 180sx delivered more power and torque than its North American counterpart.

The 240sx featured an independent rear suspension, unlike the 180sx, which had a torsion beam suspension. As a result, the 240sx’s rear wheels moved up and down independently, boosting its stability when cornering at higher speeds.

Interior Features

The 180sx and 240sx had several differences regarding interior features. For instance, the 180sx had fabric sport seats, driver’s side airbags, digital climate control, and seat belt pre-tensioners.

On the other hand, the 240sx elevated interior comfort thanks to the leather upholstery, advanced audio systems, dual airbags, and automatic seatbelts.

Drivetrain and Transmission

North American drivers could opt for a rear-wheel drive or an all-wheel drive. These options were ideal for drivers interested in better control in varying driving conditions. 

Conversely, the 180sx was primarily rear-wheel drive. It guaranteed a sporty and agile handling, particularly when drifting.

Regarding transmission, both sports cars had a manual transmission. However, the 180sx transmission performed better due to its turbocharged engine.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a 180sx go for?

A used Nissan 180sx can range from $6,000 to $24,600. The actual price of your preferred version will depend on the car’s condition, model year, mileage, and additional features.

How much are 240sx worth today?

The average price of the 240sx is $15,000. Your preferred choice can cost less or more than the average, depending on its condition, model year, additional features, and more.

Is the Nissan 180sx legal?

Yes, the Nissan 180sx is legal and available in the US market.

What is the top speed of a Nissan 180sx?

The original 180sx sold in Japan had a top speed of 110 mph, while the 200sx version sold in Europe had a top speed of 146 mph.

What is the top speed of a 240sx?

The Nissan 240sx’s top speed is 235 mph, making it the world’s fastest S13.

Verdict

Hopefully, the above 180sx vs 240sx comparison has helped you decide on the ideal sports car to suit your needs.

Both cars have many similarities but differ regarding the intended market, engines, turbochargers, and some interior features. Thankfully, the 180sx and 240sx are good sports cars for beginners and experienced riders.