Shane van der Merwe, like countless car fans, grew up enjoying racing games on consoles.
He had always aspired to own a Japanese performance car as thrilling as those he navigated in video games—complete with the distinctive sounds of turbo flutter and dump valves, along with parts from renowned Japanese brands. Years later, he transformed this dream into reality.
In South Africa, legendary Japanese cars like the Supra, Skyline, and RX-7 have always been hard to come by, although there were some S13 Nissan 200SX models. In 2017, after a long search, Shane located a Nissan S14 200SX that was imported in limited quantities by Nissan South Africa. The fact that it was completely stock was another significant benefit.
The S14 didn’t remain factory stock for long. Within just three weeks of ownership, Shane replaced the SR20DET engine with a low-mileage RB25DET NEO. He selected this late-model RB25 for its highly robust internals, advanced cylinder head, solid lifters, and top-feed injectors. Initially, he used the car with the original engine while accumulating funds for significant modifications.
The new engine was thoroughly upgraded, featuring a worked head, CP forged pistons, Eagle forged rods, a new crankshaft, race bearings, an N1 billet oil pump, performance cams with GReddy adjustable timing gears, a Greddy timing belt, and Savage Performance coils for enhanced spark. The bottom end was completely balanced.
Upgrades to the fueling system included Precision 1,000cc injectors, an AEM fuel pressure regulator, and a billet RPM Racing fuel rail. Additionally, an RPM billet intake with a 90mm fly-by-wire throttle body was installed to enhance performance.
Cooling efficiency was improved with a custom-made aluminum radiator and a Mishimoto oil cooler.
For increased performance, a Precision Turbo 62/62 was installed, mounted on a bespoke RPM Racing manifold, paired with an Excell Performance 50mm high-flow external wastegate and dump valve. Exhaust gases exit via a screamer pipe and a complete stainless-steel system that ends in an A’PEXi muffler.
A MaxxECU engine management system governs the engine, producing 419kW (561hp) at 0.8bar (11.7psi) boost using pump fuel. Power is delivered to the rear wheels through an R33 GT-R 5-speed transmission and an R33 GTS-T differential.
Before the installation of the new engine, the build was in limbo for nearly a year. Not fond of the factory pearl white paint on the S14, Shane began preparing the body for a new gloss white finish, but his project was stalled by the COVID-19 pandemic. He managed only to apply the primer coats before running out of funds.
By the end of 2021, the car received its new paint job and was sent to Mark Jonker of RPM (Race Performance Motorsport), who procured all the necessary engine components and reassembled the RB25. Shane admits he may have made things challenging for Mark over the years, but the effort was worth it, as it ultimately fulfilled his childhood fantasy.
With painting and engine work complete, Shane shifted his focus to enhancing the suspension. He implemented Tein adjustable coilovers, Tein strut braces, and a Sikky sway bar to improve handling. For better braking performance, he added Brembo front calipers, EBC discs, and Yellowstuff pads.
Finding genuine wheels from respected brands in South Africa is a challenge, but Shane managed to track down a set of iconic 18-inch Enkei RPF1s. Despite their broad sizes—9.5 inches at the front and 10.5 inches at the rear—the wheels fit perfectly under the fenders without any rubbing from the 265-profile Vitour semi-slick tires. Although chunky wheels typically aren’t to my taste, they suit this car exceptionally well.
Inside, the interior retains its simple ’90s Japanese vibe, but features significant upgrades: a Sparco competition suede steering wheel on an NRG quick-release hub, Cobra Monaco Pro seats outfitted with TAKATA Racing 4-point harnesses, a MaxxECU 7-inch display in a custom 3D-printed console, and a 3D-printed gear knob.
This 200SX project embodies Shane’s childhood aspirations, driven by his love for automobiles and the vibrant culture surrounding them. Every drive and every visual encounter with the S14 brings an immediate smile to his face—that’s the essence of his journey.
Stefan Kotzé
Instagram: stefankotzemedia
info@stefankotze.com
www.stefankotzemedia.com
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