LA Auto Show: Nissan Sentra SE-R Spec-V
The Nissan Sentra SE-R, and its Spec-V sibling, is entering a market rife with performance bargains. On the turbocharged side of the fence lays the GTI and MazdaSpeed3, while the coupe and sedan versions of Honda's Si covers the naturally aspirated realm. Simply put, the SE-R has got serious competition from all sides.
In order to do battle with its competitors, Nissan's Spec-V version of the SE-R brings the required 200 HP to the game at 6,600 RPM, but unlike the Civic Si, it produces torque to match: 180 lb.-ft. of it at 5,200 RPM. That power is fed through a close-ratio, six-speed gearbox and then sent to the wheels via a Helical Limited-Slip diff.
Making effective use of all that potential energy is a sport-tuned independent front suspension, with stiffer springs and shocks. While in the rear, an antiquated torsion beam rear suspension gives the Civic Si the upper hand. Both the standard SE-R and the Spec-V come equipped with 17-inch, 10-spoke wheels that frame 11.7-inch rotors on the former and 12.6-inch rotors on the latter, in front. Both models get 11.5-inch binders in the rear, along with ABS and Electronic Brake force Distribution
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