Built from January 1999 to August 2002, the S15 simplified the lineup to just two trims and sharpened everything the S13 and S14 had been building toward. It's the most modern-feeling Silvia to drive, the most expensive to buy, and — because it's the youngest of the three — the one where import eligibility is still actively rolling over car by car.
Overview
The S15 dropped the sprawling S14 trim list for just two: Spec-S, naturally aspirated at 163hp, and Spec-R, turbocharged via SR20DET to around 250PS through a 6-speed manual, ball-bearing turbo and sharper throttle response than any Silvia before it. Both were available in "Aero" form with a larger rear wing and side skirts. Nissan also built a small run of Autech-bodied Varietta retractable hardtops (1,143 units) based on the Spec-S — a genuine rarity if you want something different. Sold in Japan, Australia and New Zealand new, the S15 has since become one of the most internationally recognised Silvia generations.
SR20DET, ~250PS
The turbocharged, 6-speed performance trim most buyers are chasing — the most track-focused Silvia Nissan built.
SR20DE, 163hp
Naturally aspirated and lighter over the nose — a cleaner, more balanced chassis for buyers less focused on outright power.
Auction Pricing
Japanese auction results for the S15 typically range from ¥1,000,000 to ¥3,000,000, with Spec-R commanding a real premium over Spec-S and low-mileage, unmodified Aero cars pushing toward the top end and beyond — some exceptionally low-mileage Spec-R examples fetching close to ¥5,000,000. As the youngest and most recognised of the three Silvia generations, S15 values have been trending upward as more of the production run clears import eligibility worldwide — expect continued appreciation on clean, documented cars.
What to Check
S15s are less likely than S13/S14 to have decades of modification history simply because they're younger, but that doesn't mean a large number haven't been modified — most have seen at least some drift or grip-track use. Check the SR20DET's turbo and fuelling setup if it's been modified, inspect for track-rash on the chassis rails, and confirm Aero-spec bodywork is genuine rather than a later aftermarket addition, which affects both value and auction-sheet accuracy.
Import Eligibility
Rolling Eligible
Most S15s (built before August 2001) have already cleared the 25-year threshold. The final cars, built up to August 2002, clear progressively through to August 2027.
Rolling Eligible
Same rolling 25-year window as Australia. See our Import page for state-level registration notes.
MOT Only
Past the 10-year IVA threshold — a standard MOT is all that's needed, regardless of build date.
FAQ
Is every S15 old enough to import to Australia or the USA yet?
Not quite — production ran to August 2002, so the very last cars built are still a matter of months away from clearing the 25-year threshold. Tell us your target build date and we'll confirm exactly where it sits.
Spec-R or Spec-S?
Spec-R is the one most enthusiasts want — turbocharged, 6-speed, and the most complete factory Silvia. Spec-S is a lighter, more balanced starting point if you're planning your own build from a lower price point.