December 3, 1998 – , Wed Dec 08 00:00:00 -0600 2010 Since the introduction of the Datsun 240Z more than a quarter of a century ago, Nissan has established a reputation for manufacturing distinctive sports coupes with class-leading performance. With its crisp lines, sleek body style and a 2.4-liter engine - the front engine, rear wheel drive 240SX is a true sports car in the competitive sports coupe market. For 1998, the 240SX is again available in three trim levels - 240SX, 240SX SE and the recently introduced (in mid-1997) 240SX LE luxury edition. Offering a myriad of comfort and convenience features, every 240SX comes equipped with a powerful and responsive engine and rear-wheel-drive performance. "With the retirement of the Nissan Z-car, the 240SX gives consumers another outstanding option by combining contemporary styling and sportiness at an exceptional value," said Tom Eastwood, vice president, Nissan Division. Engine/Suspension/Body Structure All three 240SX models are equipped with a refined 2.4-liter DOHC 16-valve 4-cylinder engine, generating 155 horsepower and 160 ft-lbs of torque. Delivering much of its torque at low- to mid-range rpm, the 240SX boasts smooth, linear acceleration. All 240SX models are available with a 5-speed manual overdrive transmission or an optional electronically controlled 4-speed automatic transmission. The manual transmission features a double-cone second gear synchronizer and a reverse gear synchromesh for easier shifting. The available automatic transmission features Nissan's DUET-EA system, which is electronically linked to the engine control module (ECM), facilitating smoother, more controlled shifts. Additionally, all models are equipped to meet 1998 federal emission standards. Standard on all models is a 4-wheel independent suspension with MacPherson struts up front and a 27.2 mm front stabilizer bar. The rear suspension features a multi-link design with coil springs, with the SE and LE models boasting thicker struts, stiffer shock absorbers and rear stabilizer bar to enhance the driving experience. Assisting the driver with precise and responsive steering is a standard power-assisted rack-and-pinion steering system. A traction-enhancing rear viscous limited-slip differential (VLSD) is available on 240SX SE and LE to help ensure excellent control on slippery surfaces or tight corners. The 240SX's authentic sports car image is highlighted by high-performance all-season radial tires which help provide traction in all driving conditions. The placement of the wheels toward each corner of the car gives the 240SX a stronger and more stable platform. Safety Features Throughout the years, exacting attention has been devoted to providing a quick, yet safe, ride for both the driver and passengers. Every 240SX enjoys a host of safety features, beginning with standard 4-wheel disc brakes to provide enhanced braking control. A 3-channel/4-sensor anti-lock braking system (ABS) is optional on the SE and LE. Additionally, the Nissan 240SX offers dual air bags, 3-point front and rear seat belts, front and rear body structure crumple zones, an energy-absorbing steering column, driver and front-passenger knee bolsters, and pipe-style steel side-door guard beams. Standard Equipment/Optional Features and Packages Each of the 240SX models come equipped with a long list of standard comfort and convenience features including: power windows with driver-side one-touch auto-down feature, digital clock, rear window defroster, side window defogger, center console with covered storage area, large front-door map pockets, and a one-piece fold-down rear seat with trunk pass-through for more convenient storage. For those wanting additional amenities, the 240SX model offers an updated Popular Equipment Package which includes: CFC-free air conditioning; AM/FM/cassette 60-watt stereo with four speakers and mast antenna, cruise control with steering-wheel-mounted-controls, 15-inch aluminum-alloy wheels, power door locks, body-colored dual power remote-controlled outside mirrors, 2 speed wipers with fixed intermittent feature, tilt steering column, remote trunk release, passenger-side vanity mirror, cloth door inserts, lockable glove compartment and built-in cup holder. The sport-oriented 240SX SE is outfitted with fog lamps, lower body side sill extensions, a body-color rear spoiler and aluminum-alloy wheels. A power sliding glass sunroof, sliding sunshade and map light with tilt feature is optional (also available for the Standard model 240SX). Newly introduced in mid-1997, the top-of-the-line 240SX LE offers a unique combination of sports car styling and performance with well-appointed amenities. Fitted with aggressive lower body side sill extensions and body-color rear spoiler, 240SX LE features standard equipped luxuries such as CFC-free air-conditioning, cruise control, leather seating surfaces, power sliding glass sunroof with tilt feature, remote keyless entry and vehicle security system and 100-watt AM/FM/CD/Cassette audio system with six speakers. Design/Exterior Styling The 240SX is built using Nissan's Intelligent Body Assembly System (IBAS) -- the same process used to assemble the prestigious Infiniti Q45 and award winning Altima. IBAS provides an ultra-precise level of body dimensional accuracy and consistent fit and finish during the manufacturing process. To help ensure that each 240SX maintains a glossy sheen, Nissan applies an innovative Cross-Linking Clear Coatä paint. This application provides much greater resistance to scratching and acid rain, and is more durable than conventional paint. The 1998 240SX has a wide palette of colors from which to choose, including: Silver Moss, Deep Fuchsia, Starfire Blue Pearl, Cobalt Green Pearl, Super Black, Ultra Red and Aspen White. The 240SX Standard and SE models come with a black, patterned Moquette fabric seat material, while the LE features standard Titanium leather seating surfaces. Warranty All 1997 Nissan models are covered by a comprehensive 3-year/36,000-mile"bumper-to-bumper"Limited Warranty, a 5-year/60,000-mile Limited Powertrain Warranty, a 5-year/60,000-mile Corrosion Coverage and a Lifetime Seat Belt Warranty. Issued by Nissan