Wheels Magazine 
November, 2000
Although some vital ingredients such as the hot 2.0 litre turbo-are much as before, there has been an extensive make-over beneath that slinky new costume.
While the previous 200SX could crack 0-100km/h in less than 7.0secs and run the 400 metres in 15.0secs neat, the born-again model promises to be even quicker, as a manual at least. This isn't because the lusty engine has changed, but because it's backed by a six-speed gearbox that also brings a newly developed, very effective limited-slip differential.
And kerb weight is down by about 25kg. Drop the accelerator pedal to the firewall and the turbo 2.0 litre responds with a rush; not with a fearsome, kind of Rottweiler lunge on the leash, but rather a smooth and forceful, swelling thrust that feels like 3.0 litre's worth.
Though the turbo really gathers itself as the tacho needle powers past 3500rpm or so, the engine is also nicely tractable when rambling in the slower range and then responds with all due urgency when you gas it.
Worked hard, the engine isn't noisy but has a purposeful, solid sound which goes some way to correcting any impression-promoted by the smooth delivery-that the mid range performance is a bit on the soft side. The optional four speed automatic is more your style, as it will be for around 50 percent of Silvia buyers, according to Nissan Australia's sales projections.
The self-shifter is well attuned to sporty turbo. Apart from an overdrive switch on the knob, a rocker on the console offers Power and Snow modes. The manual is the serious drivers choice, however. And thankfully, this time the lever is a bit closer to the driver and the pedals' pad angles revised for improved tactility.
The Silvia's steering has been given slightly firmer weighting and a better connected feel, and though the turning circle remains a widely 9.8 meters, the wheels' still touch tardy with 3.1 turns between the lock stops. The brakes are basically the same sure stoppers as before, with big rotors and four-piston calipers borrowed from the heavier Skyline, but the (larger) booster has been tweaked to provide brake assistance with increased servo effect at high pedal pressures.
From a driver's viewpoint, the improvements in chassis dynamics fell like the old 200SX has been to the gym. The extensively revised body is perceptibly tauter than before, and some serious development has gone into the suspension bushings, springs and dampers. As a result, the ride is a bit firmer and the handling a whole lot more disciplined.
The interior is aptly upgraded throughout and is, for driver and front passenger at least, a very pleasant place. Simple yet shapely and supportive in all the right places, the front buckets are a lesson in comfort. The three spoke wheel and large legible instruments are new, while the nacelles for the (five) excellent vents are a fitting retro touch from earliest Datsun Z car days. The simple, functional centre stack looks good and works well, too, as does the tunnel console with its integrated cupholders and lidded bin.
As ever, the plus-two rear seat is only a gesture, for its head space and knee room are far short of adult dimensions. But that's not expected, of course. Best things about the rear seat are the large bins either side and the folding backrest, which opens to a deeply stepped but comparatively generous boot. The Silvia hasn't re-invented the coupe but has successfully linked balanced handling, performance and features. Looks damn fine, too.