Nissan To Take On Toyobaru Coupe

Edward Niedermeyer
by Edward Niedermeyer

News of Toyota and Subaru's joint $20k-$25k RWD coupe has Nissan scrambling to develop it own pocket rocket. 7tune.com reports that Nissan is testing a compact rear wheel-drive (RWD) coupe based on the new Z-car platform. The spiritual successor to Nissan's JDM Silvia is likely to be motivated by either the 2.0-liter NA engine, or a 1.6-liter or 1.8-liter turbo four (possibly equipped with Variable Compression Ration technology) making between 150 and 225 hp. The coupe should be about the same size as the last (S15) Silvia, offering the Z's wheelbase with shorter overhangs for "enjoyable handling." No word on whether the $23k-ish coupe will be offered stateside, but it will be available in Japan in the latter half of 2010. As far as we're concerned, the more light, zippy RWD coupes the better… no matter where they're sold.

Edward Niedermeyer
Edward Niedermeyer

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  • Ttacgreg Ttacgreg on May 05, 2008

    Hear, Hear, rochskier I am still enjoying 1990 turbo "Mitsubishi Eclipse"-in the no boy racer add on trim Plymouth Laser Q-ship version - I bought new those many years ago. It easily tops 30 mpg, even when driven to enjoy the balance shafted 2 liters silky revs, turbo whoosh and still respectable thrust. It was a car ahead of its time.

  • Mxfive4 Mxfive4 on May 06, 2008
    As far as we're concerned, the more light, zippy RWD coupes the better… no matter where they're sold. While I understand TTAC readership maybe international, for myself and other affordable, lightweight, RWD enthusiasts in NA it is one more bit of disappointment. Maybe someday our Skyline will come in.
  • Tommy Yoo Tommy Yoo on May 06, 2008

    2010 - again! Why does it feel like that 2010 is the new 2000? I'm half expecting someone (like Tesla) to proclaim a flying (electric) car to be released that year.

  • Mxfive4 Mxfive4 on May 06, 2008
    tommy!: 2010 - again! Why does it feel like that 2010 is the new 2000? I’m half expecting someone (like Tesla) to proclaim a flying (electric) car to be released that year. Great point - I hadn't added up all the promises for 2010 till you said that. Having digested that - here is an idea for Nissan: - drop the hatchback - make it a coupe (sedan and wagon to come later) - make it a 4 cyl - make it rwd - make it light-weight Call it the 510.
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