Nissan Silvia S15 Spec R, Spec S & Autech Trim Packages
Unlike previous generations of the S series, the Nissan Silvia S15 was simplified down to only two trim packages with one Aero variation and three engine options. Detailed below is a general outline of the Spec-R and Spec-S variants as well as the differences. For an overview of the S15 check out our review page and for a detailed background of the S-platform history see our history page. Both of these pages are navigable with the links on the right. Thank you for visiting SilviaS15.com!
Nissan Silvia S15 Spec R
The main difference and unique element of the Spec-R model was the introduction of a six (6) speed manual transmission. This however required the use of a helical limited slip differential was resulted in a safer more track suited drive, which was a departure from the drifting legacy that garnered the Silvia acclaim and racing attention.
Spec-R Unique Features- SR20DET Engine producing 250 horsepower at 6400 RPM
- 202 Foot Pounds of Torque created at 4800 RPM
- 480 (cc/m) Injectors
- Available in Aero SUPER HICAS, Aero and SUPER HICAS special packages
Through the use of larger anti-roll bars and strut bracing and the Spec-R also featured a strong chassis and suspension when compared with previous models. A large brake booster on a 4-piston brake caliper fitted on the stock S15 Spec-R provided for increased stopping power.
Nissan Silvia S15 Spec S
The Spec S is the less popular trim packaged and differs from the Spec R in that it has a 5 speed manual tranny and lacks the heavy duty chassis and braking system found on the Spec R. The other difference is that most of Spec S models had an open differential.
Spec-S Unique Features- SR20DE Engine producing 165 horsepower at 6400 RPM
- 142 Foot Pounds of Torque created at 4800 RPM
- 259 (cc/m) Injectors
- Available in Aero and Spec-S/G special packages
***It should be noted that Australian delivered Spec-S models featured the same helical limited slip differential, heavier chassis bracing and 6sp manual tranny as the Spec-R.
Nissan Silvia S15 Autech
Towards the end of the S15 production run a more luxuries trim package was added as an upgrade to both the Spec-S and Spec-R options. This Autech option made by a custom car maker of the same name, featured enhanced version of the S15 along with body and interior lines the mimicked the Ferrari 456 called style-A.
Autech Engine Upgrades- SR20DE Engine producing 200 horsepower at 7200 RPM (Spec-S Only)
- 158 Foot Pounds of Torque created at 4800 RPM (Spec-S Only)
- 11.7 Compression (Both Spec-S & Spec-R)
- Covertible (Verietta) with folding retractable hardtop (Spec-S Based)
With the many names and variations of the Silvia S15 and the entire S platform series for that matter, the car enthusiasts, have come to refer to the Silvia as the Strawberry. This is more of a reference to the chassis, which is the one common thread among different version of the Silvia cars.