The Nissan 200SX was one of those coupes that just happened to be in the right place, at the right time, when the coupe fad exploded. But it didn't really catch the zeitgeist until the S13 model, with its dated pop-up headlamps, was replaced by the S14 in 1995, with its more modern, more aerodynamic lines.
Good luck finding a 200SX this standard now
Fortunately for Nissan, under the skin the 200SX was rather more interesting than its slightly plain exterior. Power came from a 2.0-litre turbo petrol engine, the now-famous SR20DET, which matched the Rover 220 Turbo Coupe's at 200hp. But the 200SX could offer one thing beyond the reach of the Rover, and indeed, most other coupe rivals: rear-wheel drive.
That the 200SX fed its power through the rear wheels instantly made it a class favourite with road testers. But it didn't end there. 'Right' wheel drive was matched to a fantastic chassis that allowed beautifully controlled handling on the limit; in other words, here was a car that would let you hang out its tail without fear of reprisal.
The irony at the time was that the majority of 200SX buyers wouldn't come close to taking advantage of these characteristics. Today, though, the story is very different. Both the S14 and the S14a - the facelifted model released in 1998 with a more characterful, scowling front end - are now firm favourites among both amateur and professional drifters, that combination of controllable chassis and rear-wheel-drive making them perfect for the task.
Mmm, 90s Japanese interiors
That fact, combined with the SR20DET engine's ability to generate vastly more power with the aid of a few simple modifications, means you'll struggle to find an original 200SX these days.
Popularity has driven prices up, but there are still clean, tidy examples out there for bargain prices. Find a clean, well looked-after example, and you'll have little else to worry about. Rust is the main issue, so check the rear sills and boot floor in particular.
The 200SX, then, might not set the pulse racing with its looks, but its driving experience is sure to make up for that. And even at this heady age, a good'un should prove reliable. All you've got to do now is find one.
Buy if: you like your coupes turbo'd and driven from the rear
Don't buy if: you're not prepared to spend some time waiting for a good one to come along
We found: 1998 200SX Touring, manual, 95,000 miles, £6,000
Price Guide
Poor: £3,000
Good: £4,000 to £7,000
A1: £8,000
