Nissan to Revive 200SX Rival for the Mazda MX-5

Going electric nowadays isn’t a matter of bringing something new into the car market, as  it seems more like a necessity given the present environmental and conventional fuel situation. Thus, Nissan’s rival to the MX-5is back on its feet and as a plus it is going electric. The manufacturer plans to revive plans for bringing back the legendary rear-wheel-drive 200SX, as related by autoexpress.co.uk.

The project started since 2008 and it is a parts of Nissan’s program to develop and launch 52 new vehicles by 2016. The original project for the 200SX included taking the platform of the 370Z, and powering it by a 1.6 liter turbo installed in the Juke. Apart from getting a new name the new car is supposed to receive a new chassis. This came as a result of Nissan signing an agreement with Daimler to supply mid-size platforms which could accommodate a wide range of motors from four-cylinders motors to V8s.

The new platforms won’t be used only for the new MX-5 rival, but also the 370Z replacement and the next GT-R. Furthermore, the new platform will be used for the new Infiniti G sports car. Still there are decisions to be made by the Japanese manufacturer on what will power the new Nissan. Taken under consideration are a version of the Leaf’s drivetrain and a hybrid set-up.

The company has a particular interest in an all-electric rear-wheel-drive sports car, fact proved by the ESFLOW concept, which was unveiled in March at the Geneva Motor Show. The manufacturer will get help from Lotus Engineering in order to ensure an exquisite handling. Lotus could also give a hand in the manufacturing process by providing a new lightweight construction. The model is expected to arrive in 2013 and will set you back with about GBP20,000 (approx. $32.800).