Nissan Silvia S15 Spec-R: A JDM Dream Realized

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Jack west 

Nissan Silvia s15 spec r 

Instagram: @Wildwest.s15

Photographer: Jack West 

Instagram:  @Wildwestphotography2020

Performance Stats:400hp 

From Fast and Furious to JDM Passion: Jack’s Automotive Journey

Hey, I’m Jack. Like many enthusiasts my age, my love for cars ignited with the first Fast and Furious film. The wild modifications, the adrenaline-pumping stunts, and, of course, the iconic JDM scene captured my imagination. There’s something about the 90s Japanese imports that speaks to me—they were practically made for modifying. The whole era was filled with cars that were not just vehicles but blank canvases for creativity and performance.

The Shift from FWD to Turbocharged RWD

Before I got my hands on the Nissan Silvia S15, I owned an EP3 Type R. It was a fantastic car, but the front-wheel-drive setup always left me craving more grip, and the cost of improving its performance was steep. I knew my next car had to be rear-wheel drive and turbocharged, so I made my way down to Torque GT in 2015 with an open mind. As soon as I arrived, they showed me a Nissan Silvia S15, and it was love at first sight. The looks, the feel—it was everything I wanted in a car. Two weeks later, I had won a factory aero S15 Spec-R at a Japanese car auction. By 2016, the car was ready for collection, and I wasted no time diving into modifications.

Building the Perfect S15: Modifications and Upgrades

A Motorsport-Inspired Setup

The journey of modifying my S15 began the moment it arrived. I started with a Greddy intercooler and a Tomei exhaust system, setting the foundation for what would become a top-to-bottom transformation. My approach has always been Motorsport-inspired, focusing on performance enhancements like a rear diffuser, big brakes, a bigger turbo, and weight reduction. The car is now a 400hp beast that’s as capable on the track as it is on the road.

Unique Touches and Driving Experience

What makes my S15 truly unique is the two-toned wrap and the rear diffuser, both sourced directly from Japan. To my knowledge, I’m the only UK owner with this exact setup. Driving the S15 is an experience unlike any other—there’s no traction control or modern tech to dull the sensation. It’s just me, the steering wheel, and the raw feel of the road. That’s what I love most about cars from that era—they demand your full attention and reward you with an unmatched driving experience.

Nissan Silvia S15 Spec-R Build List: 

Engine:

• 400bhp
• Sr20det (pearl blue cover) 
• Factory aero rear spoiler
• Factory aero spatts 
• Factory aero side skirts
• Factory aero front bumper 
• Link G4 ECU 
• Link air temperature sensor
• Link ethanol sensor 
• Greddy intercooler
• Blitz downpipe 
• Hks air filter
• Garrett gtx2871r gen 2 turbo 
• Tomei camshafts
• Tomei turbo elbow 
• Tomei titanium cat back exhaust
• Tomei rocker stoppers 
• Jap speed exhaust manifold 
• Spitfire racing coil pack 
• NGK iridium spark plugs 
• Compitetion clutch stage 2
• Deatschwerks 740cc injectors 
• Tomei oil cap 
• Aem fuel pump 
  

Chassis:

• Full vinyl wrap from wrap capital in 3M Carribbean shimmer  (gloss black aero parts) 
• Volk rays Ce28sl fronts 8.5x18 rears 9.5x18
• Volk rays wheel nuts 
• Yokohama ADO8RS tyres 
• Tein flex z coilovers
• Hard race camber arms 
• First molding Carbon fibre/fibreglass diffuser (from Japan hand made) 
• D-max rear roof spoiler 
• K-sport 8 piston brack kit 
• Factory headlights
• Yashio Factory rear lights 
• Boosted international led spoiler light 

Interior:

• Momo 350mm blue deep dish leather steering wheel
• Toucan multiscreen
• Yoshi's factory gear boot 
• Hbk boss kit 
• Pioneer double din stereo
• Hks turbo timer 

The Hands Behind the Build: Who Did the Work?

Collaborations and DIY Spirit

A build like this doesn’t happen overnight, and I’ve had some great collaborators along the way. Torque GT not only sourced the car but also fitted some of the key parts. Engine Tuner handled the ECU remapping and sensor installations, ensuring the car runs flawlessly with its upgraded setup. Of course, I’ve also done a lot of the work myself, tackling everything I could manage on a driveway without the luxury of ramps. There’s something incredibly satisfying about getting your hands dirty and being directly involved in the build.

What’s Next: Future Plans for the S15

Fine-Tuning and Power Handling

As any car enthusiast knows, a project is never truly finished. For my S15, the next steps involve fine-tuning the steering setup to provide even more feedback on the track and road. I’m also considering a gearbox upgrade to handle additional power—possibly swapping in a 370Z Nismo gearbox paired with a Nismo clutch. I’ve got some LED headlights arriving soon from France, which will not only enhance visibility but also add another layer of visual appeal to the car.

Shout Outs: Acknowledging the Support

No build happens in isolation, and I want to give a big shout-out to the teams and individuals who have helped bring my vision to life. Huge thanks to Torque GT for sourcing the car and fitting key components, Engine Tuner for their expert tuning, and Wrap Capital for the incredible wrap that makes the car stand out. Your support has been invaluable.

Dream Car: The Ever-Changing Goal

When it comes to dream cars, I’m always changing my mind. But if I had to pick one today, it would be the Ferrari F40. There’s just something timeless about that car—its blend of raw performance and iconic design speaks to everything I love about automotive engineering.

Jack West’s journey with his Nissan Silvia S15 Spec-R is a testament to the enduring appeal of JDM culture and the thrill of building a car that’s uniquely your own. Through dedication, collaboration, and a love for the road, Jack has transformed his S15 into a true reflection of his automotive passion. As he continues to refine and enhance his build, there’s no doubt that his S15 will remain a standout in the car community for years to come.

Foot Note

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