Specialty Car
The fifth- generation Silvia (S13) - descended from the first-generation CSP311, launched in March 1965 - was introduced on May 17, 1988.
This car was developed as a compact specialty coupe with an emphasis on beauty and the driving experience. Exterior and interior shared the same design theme, and numerous advanced technologies, such as the multilink rear suspension, were incorporated to enhance performance. For this reason, the car was greatly appreciated by the younger generation, who are very particular about the way a car handles. The S13 was regarded as a high-quality product, and in 1988 it received the Good Design Award by the Ministry of International Trade and Industry.
The natural lines and curved surfaces of the streamlined styling set the S13 apart. Together with its interior - which, from dashboard to door trim and center console, featured a unified design - this car had the unmistakable look of a specialty coupe.
The multilink rear suspension was a new idea that was later adopted for the Skyline. Together with the HICAS-II 4-wheel steering system (option) and the 1.8-liter twin-cam engine (CA18DE/CA18DET), the car was equipped to provide an excellent drive.
The S13 was available in 3 grades*: K's, Q's, and J's. The top-of-the-line K's was equipped with the S-pack (rear spoiler, projected headlights, 195/60R15 tires, etc.) which accentuated the sporty character of the car. Following a minor change in January 1991, the engine was changed to the twin-cam SR20DE/SR20DET.
*The names of the three models were derived from the three court cards: King (K), Queen (Q), and Jack (J).