Show-and-go propositions don't get much better than this. The 240SR, or Silvia conversion, is becoming so popular, there could soon be more SR-powered 240SXs than KA24-motivated variants. Tashi Simmons of Falls Church, Va., stepped up Big with his 1995 240SX/Silvia transformation by going on full S15 alert.
Tashi didn't just drop in an engine, he grafted an entire 2000 S15 Silvia driveline into the 240-engine, six-speed transmission, driveshaft and helix rear differential. The engine has been peppered with polished parts, while the stock T28 turbo system has been augmented with a GReddy front-mount intercooler, Nitrous Express intercooler spray bar kit, GReddy Type-S blow-off valve and a Turbonetics boost controller. Post-combustion gases exit via a GReddy downpipe, Heavy Throttle 3-inch test pipe and an A'PEXi N1 can.
The S15 effect is also evident up and down the Nissan's body as Tashi has enlisted an array of J-spec body tuning items. Thanks to a C-West front bumper, Strawberry Face S15 fenders teamed with C-West over-fenders, a VIS carbon-fiber hood, C-West S14 side skirts, S14 rear bumper and S15 eyelids, this 240 is more Silvia than most of the ones prowling the streets of Tokyo. The J-spec body tuning attack continues with Signal Auto carbon-fiber mirrors and is finished off with a custom blend of PPG yellow paint and eight coats of clearcoat.
The suspension has been augmented with a number of trick mods. A 300ZX five-lug conversion means Tashi gets the Z's beefy four-piston calipers, and he has upgraded this stout setup with cross-drilled Brembo rotors and stainless-steel lines. The car is set up drift style, including a Tein HE suspension with upper pillow-ball mounts that allow for precise tuning for street, drift or show. Cusco front and rear strut tower braces add further chassis rigidity. The rolling stock question has been answered with Volk Racing GT-Cs in gunmetal, wrapped by Toyo Proxes T1-S tires.
Inside, the interior has received the black-out treatment. New carpet is joined by suede-wrapped Recaro buckets, reworked door panels and a Nismo steering wheel. An A'PEXi tach, Project pedals, C's short-throw shifter and Takata harnesses round out the J-spec interior enhancement.
And this Nissan is no trailer queen; it sees the road often. We were envious of photographer John Prescott, who got to drive it after the photo shoot. He reports the Silvia is a blast to drive, with lively throttle response and plenty of boost. The 240-to-SR20DET swap is the most popular engine swap this side of the Honda badge and we have to give Tashi and his ride props-the car is easily one of the top three Silvia conversions we've seen.