SR20DE Swap (Autech Version)

Why this engine? After driving the 1.6 liter with a dog-leg 5 speed for a few years, it was time for a little more power. We considered building out a 2 liter L-Series engine, but I really wanted fuel injection to cut down on the gas fumes for my passengers (wife and kids). Luckily, in the niche world of Datsun 510’s, swapping in a SR20 is not abnormal. I wasn’t looking to make 300+ horse power from a turbo version, plus the those require extra work fitting into the engine bay. The downfall is that a non-turbo version only makes around 140 HP. There is another option, just hard to find: a Japanese spec Silvia, tuned by Nissan’s in-house group called Autech. That engine make 200 HP, higher compression, 7500 RPM red-line, and is attached to a close-ratio six-speed transmission. We happen to find one in Florida and jumped on it. With a station wagon that weighs 2200 lbs, 200 HP with a six speed is the sweet spot.

Before installing the engine, we filled over 50 holes in the engine bay, moved the battery below the back seat and got it prepped to paint. I selected Green Mist Metallic found on GM cars in the mid-seventies. This color will eventually match the green and plaid interior.

The original cross member had to be cut in thirds with the center section flipped to accommodate the oil pan. New engine mounts were also added. Jeff fabricated custom stainless steel headers to fit, connected to a catalytic converter and custom stainless steel exhaust. We also ran custom brake lines to complete the tucked and shaved look.

There were many other small details like matching bolts, gas hinges for the hood and cleaning/painting other parts. The picture above was taken during a test fit, after fabrication and paint.

The finished product.

Custom stainless steal headers.