PERFORMANCE: Small sports sedans aren't usually known for
torquey engines, but the Sentra SE-R Spec V is an exception. It
makes its 175 horsepower (at 6000 rpm) and 180 lb-ft of torque (at
4,000) not by screaming to near five-digit rev levels but by
displacement. While 2.5 liters is nothing on an 8-liter muscle car, it is
more than the 1.8 to 2.0 liters of most sport-compacts, and a balance
shaft keeps it civilized. With continuously-variable valve timing, it
pulls hard right off the line, builds in the midrange, and continues
until the rev limiter cuts the fun at 6200 rpm. The new six-speed
manual gearbox has very positive action, with none of the rubbery
linkage feel that is too often found in front-drive cars. It's great fun
to shift, but the engine has such a broad power band that shifting is
not as necessary as in some other cars in the class. In most cases,
either of two gears will work just fine.

CONCLUSIONS: The Nissan Sentra SE-R Spec V combines
performance with practicality for unique character.

SPECIFICATIONS
2003 Nissan Sentra SE-R Spec V

Engine Type dual overhead cam 16-valve inline 4-
cylinder
Engine Size 2.5 liters / 151 cu. in.
Horsepower 175 @ 6000 rpm
Torque (lb-ft) 180 @ 4000 rpm
Transmission 6-speed manual
Wheelbase / Length 99.8 in. / 177.5 in.
Curb Weight 2708 lbs.
Pounds Per Horsepower 15.5
Fuel Capacity 13.2 gal.
Fuel Requirement 91 octane unleaded premium gasoline
recommended
Tires P215/45 ZR17 Continental ContiSportContact
Brakes, front/rear vented disc / solid disc
Suspension, front/rear independent strut /
multi-link beam axle
Drivetrain front engine, front-wheel drive

PERFORMANCE
EPA Fuel Economy - miles per gallon
city / highway / observed 24 / 29 / 26
0 to 60 mph 7.0 sec