1990 Nissan Silvia (S13) Dimensions, Size & Specs

The curb weight of the Nissan Silvia S13 ranges between 1110 kg and 1170 kg (approx. 2447 to 2579 lbs). This relatively light weight for a coupe enhances its nimbleness and acceleration capabilities, contributing to a sporty driving experience with responsive handling. The weight balance is crucial in delivering precise cornering and stability at speed, especially in a lightweight chassis like the S13.

Yes, the Nissan Silvia S13 fits comfortably within the dimensions of a standard residential garage. Typical single-car garages are about 2.4 to 3 meters wide and 5 to 6 meters deep, while the S13 measures 1.69 meters wide and 4.47 meters long, making it easy to park without spatial issues. Its compact width and length ensure sufficient clearance for opening doors and maneuvering within common garage spaces.

With a width of 1690 mm (66.54 inches), the Nissan Silvia S13 is moderately narrow compared to some contemporaries, which often ranged from 1700 mm to 1800 mm. This narrower width contributes to its lightweight and agile characteristics, making it easier to navigate tight corners and urban environments. The compact width also helps reduce aerodynamic drag, enhancing the overall handling balance.

The Nissan Silvia S13 typically uses rim sizes of 14 to 15 inches paired with tire sizes including 185/70R14, 195/60R15, 205/60R15, among others. These rim and tire setups provide a balance of comfort and sportiness. The tire widths from 185 mm to 205 mm (approximately 7.3 to 8.1 inches) offer good road grip and stability, while the profile contributes to responsive steering and suitable ride softness, fitting its sporty coupe nature.

The Nissan Silvia S13's low height of 1290 mm (50.79 inches) helps lower the car's center of gravity, which significantly benefits handling and cornering stability. A lower roofline also contributes to reduced aerodynamic drag, improving fuel efficiency and high-speed stability. This low-profile design emphasizes sportiness and sleek aesthetics integral to the coupe's identity, enhancing performance while maintaining a stylish look.

Compared to the Nissan Silvia S12, the S13 generation is generally similar but with minor dimensional refinements. The S13 measures 4470 mm in length, which is slightly longer than the S12's approximate 4360 mm length. The width of the S13 at 1690 mm is a bit narrower than the S12's roughly 1720 mm, promoting a more agile feel. Height is reduced as well, improving aerodynamics and the sporty stance. These tweaks aimed to enhance performance, handling, and modern styling over the preceding generation.

When compared to similar sport coupes from the late 1980s and early 1990s such as the Toyota Celica, Mazda RX-7, and Honda Prelude, the Nissan Silvia S13 holds its own with a compact footprint and lightweight chassis. Its length (4470 mm) and width (1690 mm) are generally on the smaller side, contributing to its nimble handling and agility. Unlike some rivals that are wider or heavier, the S13’s balanced proportions and relatively low weight (1110-1170 kg) make it a driver-focused vehicle renowned for sharp cornering and responsiveness.

While primarily a sporty two-door coupe, the Nissan Silvia S13 optimizes interior space relative to its exterior size. Its dimensions allow for comfortable seating for up to four passengers, though rear seats are better suited for short trips or smaller passengers due to typical coupe rear cabin space constraints. The low height and compact width emphasize driver engagement and front passenger comfort, with usable trunk space adequate for daily needs or weekend trips, making it suitable as both a performance and practical vehicle.

Common tire sizes for the Nissan Silvia S13 include 185/70R14, 195/60R15, and 205/60R15, providing flexibility for different driving needs. Performance-oriented tires with these sizes improve grip and handling, especially the 205 mm wide tires which enhance road contact during aggressive driving. The choice between 14-inch and 15-inch rims affects ride comfort and responsiveness, with 15-inch rims typically preferred for sporty setups. Selecting the right tire profile and brand can significantly elevate the S13’s traction and cornering capabilities.