This 1997 Nissan Silvia S14 Kouki arrived at Strada Auto Works tired, leaking, and begging for a second chance. The SR20DET came with a larger Garrett turbo and put down a respectable 375 whp, but the rest of the car? Old suspension, worn-out exhaust, multiple fluid leaks, and a chassis that desperately needed modern performance hardware. So we did what we do best—rebuilt it from the ground up.

ENGINE & POWER

Under the hood sits the boosted SR20DET paired with an upgraded Garrett turbocharger. While the long-term plan is a 2JZ + big turbo + CD009 swap, the SR stays for now—freshened, sealed, and supported by a completely overhauled cooling and intake system.
Upgrades include:

• Greddy upper & lower intake manifolds

• Chase Bays radiator, dual electric fan conversion, and coolant overflow tank

• Tomei Expreme Titanium catback + ISR high-flow cat & downpipe

• All components refinished in a stunning bronze coating by Echo Customs in St. Augustine, FL

CHASSIS, SUSPENSION & HANDLING

The car came in on blown suspension and factory arms that had seen better days. Now it leaves with a track-ready, fully adjustable setup that transforms the Kouki into a weapon.

Complete suspension overhaul featuring:

• SPL camber, toe, and traction arms

• SPL tie rods

• Parts Shop Max front & rear sway bars

• Parts Shop Max control arms & knuckles

• Stance XR1 coilovers

This setup delivers sharp turn-in, dialed alignment capability, and confidence-inspiring stability whether on the street or the circuit.

BRAKING SYSTEM

To match the new power and handling, the stopping power also got a massive upgrade:

• Wilwood big brake setup (front)

• Z32 rear conversion with Parts Shop Max calipers

Now the car brakes as hard as it accelerates.

EXTERIOR & FINISHING TOUCHES

Every major removable engine component has been refinished in a deep metallic bronze, adding a premium aesthetic that showcases craftsmanship and attention to detail. The build looks as good as it performs.

FUTURE PLANS

The SR20DET stays until it gives up the ghost. When it does, the Silvia is destined for:

• A 2JZ engine swap

• Bigger turbo solution

• CD009 6-speed transmission

Because we don’t just fix cars—we evolve them.