1997 Nissan 240SX SE: A 20-Year S-Chassis Journey
Dive into Ronald Rodrigo’s 20-year journey with his 1997 Nissan 240SX SE. From a clean original to a track-ready show car, discover the details of this incredible build.

--- Follow Us On Instagram At @stanceautomag ---
Order Your Car Magazines From Our Amazon, or Etsy Store!
Ronald Rodrigo - 1997 Nissan 240sx SE
Instagram: @rondeezyo
Photographer: Marvin Recinos
Instagram: @mr2mivin
Performance Stats: KA24DE-T @ 275whp
A Lifelong Passion for Cars
Hi! I’m Ronald Rodrigo, originally from sunny San Diego but now living in Los Angeles. I’m a car enthusiast with a deep passion for anything on wheels that’s powered by gasoline. By day, I work in project management, but my true love is working on my car and hitting the track whenever time—and family—allow.
This 1997 Nissan 240SX SE is not just my first car but also my prized possession. I’ve been working on it since 2005, pouring in endless hours and resources to make it what it is today. It’s been nearly 20 years of ups and downs, countless modifications, and a lot of lessons learned. Now, I’m proud to share this passion with my 1-year-old son, showing him that with hard work and vision, you can create something truly special.
Already A Member? Grab Your Free Car Magazines Here!!
How It All Began: A Family Legacy of Automotive Passion
My love for cars began when I was a toddler, watching my dad and uncle work on their vehicles. Whether they were customizing cars in the States or repairing trucks in the Philippines with my grandpa, their passion was contagious. I was eager to help, learning tips, tricks, and what not to do from their experiences.
Growing up, my family always owned Nissans—200SX, Maxima, Z31, Z32, D21 Hardbody, and more—so it wasn’t surprising when my dad suggested getting my sister a 240SX as her first car in the early 2000s. By then, I was a Super Street and Hot Import Nights fanatic, and the S-Chassis caught my attention. Around 2003-2004, I discovered drifting and the endless possibilities of the 240SX. By 2005, I had my very own: a 1997 Nissan 240SX SE.
The Build Begins: Nissan 240sx SE
When I bought the car from its previous owner, David Park, it was in pristine condition. It came with Volk GT-P wheels, a J30 diff, and an optional front lip. While it was tastefully modified, it was mostly original. Part of me regrets modifying such a clean, stock 240SX, but I had a vision: a track-ready show car with a sleek early 2000s aesthetic.
I wanted the car to be simple yet aggressive, blending sharp body lines with functional aerodynamics. The goal was clear—push the car to its limits on the track while maintaining its head-turning good looks.
Nissan 240sx SE: What Makes It Unique
What sets my 240SX apart is its personality. It’s not just about how it looks but also about how it performs. The engine is built for enjoyment and the rare parts I’ve chosen deviate from the typical S-Chassis trends.
Nissan 240SX SE: Build Details
Engine
-
Rebuilt and bored KA24DE
-
CP Pistons, Manley Rods, JWT Cams
-
Tomei M7960 Turbo
-
PBM Intercooler
-
Apexi Blow-off Valve and Intake
-
Reinhard Exhaust
Interior
-
Nismo Hub, Vertex Steering Wheel
-
Bride Seats with Yashio Factory Seat Harness
-
AEM and Stack Gauges
-
Autopower Roll Bar
-
JSP Fab Shift Knob
-
D-Max Floor Mats
Exterior
-
GP Sports Aero
-
Dear Motorsports Trunk Wing
-
GP Sports Roof Wing
-
A-Spec Hood
-
Bomex Side Mirrors
Wheels
-
Work Equip Wheels (18x9.5 Front, 18x10.5 Rear)
Suspension
-
Apexi Coilovers
-
Kazama Tie-Rods
-
PBM Control Arms
-
Tanabe Strut Bars
Brakes
-
Z32 Front Brakes
-
HPS Front Pads and Project Mu Rear Pads
Nissan 240sx SE: Who Helped Bring It All Together?
Most of the work on the car was done by me, with some help from my dad. However, I also had assistance from professionals:
-
Engine Rebuild and Machining: Corner 3 Garage in Irvine
-
Body and Paint Work: Herrera’s Auto Body in Fullerton
Future Plans for the 240SX
After almost 20 years, I’m proud to say this build is nearly complete. With more time now dedicated to my son, I’ve scaled back my car projects. However, there are a couple of final touches I’d like to add:
-
A standalone ECU to optimize the engine.
-
A new set of wheels to freshen up the look.
Shout-Outs and Acknowledgments
A big thank you to:
-
@mastermind_north_america for sourcing the aero
-
@Corner3Garage for the engine build
-
@Herreras_Autobody for the bodywork
-
@mr2mivin for capturing the car so beautifully through his lens
Dream Car
If I could have any car, it would be a 1972 Nissan Skyline (Hakosuka). Its timeless design and heritage make it a dream for any Nissan enthusiast.
Call to Action
Do you have a build story like this one? Share your journey with Stance Auto Magazine and inspire our car community. Submit your story today!
We Earn No Revenue From This, If You Would Like To Support Us Please Use The Button Below, Thank You
Do you Need A Freelance Photographer?
Our Photographers Are Available For Hire
UKTM no: UK00003572459