Ask any JDM enthusiast and the consensus is pretty clear. Nissan’s S chassis is internationally known as the go-to platform for drifting. Its perfect weight distribution, front engine rear-wheel-drive layout and light curb weight made the S13 easy to drive and even easier to slide around. While the USA received the S13 in a naturally aspirated 2.4l configuration, the Japanese domestic market received a few more exciting engine options, namely the 1.8l turbocharged CA18DET, and the legendary SR20DET “redtop”. Because of the car’s popularity in motorsports, aftermarket companies were pumping out boatloads of performance parts for these vehicles. It got to a point where it was nearly impossible to find a stock example of these cars, everyone that owned one wanted in on the aftermarket parts craze. Body kits, spoilers, and of course a wide variety of engine upgrades flooded the Japanese import scene, with the S13 being the poster child for some of the latest and greatest innovations in aftermarket parts design. This particular JDM 180SX is no different and is a perfect running example for anyone looking for a solid base for a unique classic JDM project! This 1993 model year is one of the good ones, optioned from the factory with the sought after SR20DET 2.0 turbocharged powerplant and 5 speed LSD transmission. The exterior is finished in a custom deep blue metallic paint and has been styled in typical S13 fashion. The front bumper, side skirts, and rear bumper are all fiberglass vertex style aero, a perfect balance between clean and aggressive looks. Vertex front fenders widen the front of the vehicle just a tad and give this 180SX a menacing look while driving down the road. A D Max style hood rounds off the front end modifications on this vehicle and is a perfect compliment to the rest of the aftermarket aero on the car. Chassis mounted front and rear tow hooks are fully functional while also adding a race inspired look to the exterior. The body is clean with no evidence of rust or corrosion on the panels, a refreshing sight to see compared to most US market S13’s, however there are minor spots of paint damage and small body dents that are typical for a 28 year old vehicle. The OEM wheels have been replaced with an extremely fitting set of Weds SA60M split 6 spoke alloys. Finished in a black/blue chrome finish, this is an excellent compliment to the blue metallic paintwork on the vehicle. All in all, the exterior has still held up incredibly well and is an excellent example of this iconic chassis. The interior is in fantastic shape and is already equipped with a healthy amount of aftermarket modification to aid in performance driving. The driver’s seat has been replaced with a fixed back Bride unit, a perfect option for those looking to get into drifting or circuit racing. The passenger and rear seats are still OEM, and the original upholstery has remained in good condition, with only minor signs of wear and discoloration on the passenger seat. You may notice the infamous S13 “dash crack”, which luckily isn’t too significant, especially on a modified car. All other interior plastics are in great shape, and all buttons and switches on the dash work as expected, down to the automatic climate control. A full Kenwood sound system was installed and sounds great pumping out your favorite tunes. The bulky stock steering wheel has been replaced with a MOMO 3 spoke unit. The OEM gauge cluster is intact, fully functional, and displays just 134,167 original km’s. Equating to only 83k verified miles, it’s no surprise as to why everything on this S13 is in such great shape. A pair of electronic Defi gauges are affixed atop the dash and monitor coolant temperature and boost, a must have for those looking to get into performance driving. For a car that looks so great, it drives even better. Turn the key and the SR20DET engine delivers a healthy startup, idling smooth and steady. This engine has been lightly modified with some choice components to help increase performance and enhance the driving experience. An aftermarket front mount intercooler replaces the flimsy stock side mount unit and helps deliver healthy charges of cold air escaping the turbo. An Apexi intake and Blitz blow off valve also help the engine breathe better, and a full Trust exhaust frees up the restrictive stock system and really makes this SR sing. Mechanically this is one of the healthiest 180’s we’ve come across, acceleration is smooth and rapid throughout the powerband. The 5 speed manual transmission shifts smooth as butter, with no grinds, pop outs, or other mechanical hiccups. The factory limited slip differential sends power to the rear wheels with no issue and is a perfect option for light performance driving. This car tackles backroad twists and turns like a champ thanks to a set of fully adjustable Tein coilovers, lowered to a functional spec, and Cusco front strut bar. If you’re looking for a true RHD enthusiast car ready to modify to your heart’s desire, this beautiful blue 180SX is a clean example that won’t steer you wrong.