| 2007 Nissan Sentra SE-R
200-Horsepower SE-R Model Joins 2007 Sentra Lineup, Offers Serious Performance at an Affordable Price
When Nissan first launched the Sentra SE-R in 1991, it helped establish the concept of a "sport compact" car. With a high performance 4-cylinder engine stuffed into a compact body, the original SE-R offered sports car-like performance for buyers on a budget. Enthusiasts and the media recognized this unique combination of performance and value and the Sentra SE-R became an instant hit - and has maintained a loyal following through two successive generations of Sentra SE-R.
The latest incarnation of the SE-R joins the Nissan lineup in March 2007 with two exciting versions, 2007 Nissan Sentra SE-R and the higher horsepower 2007 Nissan Sentra SE-R Spec V. Both 2007 Sentra SE-R and Sentra SE-R Spec V are powered by Nissan's advanced 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine (QR25DE) and are equipped with a range of unique performance-oriented equipment and features, including standard 17-inch wheels and tires, 4-wheel disc brakes with Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and specially tuned electric power steering (EPS) - as well as unique exterior and interior appearance modifications.
"The new SE-R takes full advantage of the redesigned 2007 Sentra and adds a level of power and performance that is usually available only through aftermarket modifications," said Bill Bosley, vice president and general manager, Nissan Division, Nissan North America, Inc. "With the 2007 model, Nissan has undertaken its most in-depth development effort yet for the SE-R."
Development of 2007 Nissan Sentra SE-R engine was guided by Motohiro Matsumura, Chief Vehicle Engineer, who previously led the development of Nissan's highly acclaimed "VQ" series V6 engine.
Special emphasis was placed on the SE-R Spec V's new high output version of the QR25DE 4-cylinder engine, with extensive modifications to the top end of the engine developed exclusively for the SE-R Spec V. Among the unique Spec V engine features are use of a unique resin intake manifold and dual branch exhaust manifold; revised piston crown shape to support a higher compression ratio (10.5:1); iridium tipped spark plugs for improved combustion characteristics; and a revised cam shaft profile, reinforced connecting rods and 8-counterweight crankshaft to achieve a higher redline limit of 6,800 rpm.
With these modifications, the power achieved is 200 horsepower at 6,600 rpm and 180 lb-ft of torque at 5,200 rpm (when using premium unleaded fuel). Helping to put all this power to the ground is an optional Helical Limited-Slip Differential (available with Spec V only). The Spec V model is available only with a close-ratio 6-speed manual transmission. It also has unique suspension, brakes, tires and body structure changes (versus the base SE-R).
In the area of chassis, handling and braking performance, the SE-R Spec V is equipped with higher rate springs, shocks and bushings; 225/45WR17 uni-directional high performance tires; high capacity front disc brakes with 12.6-inch rotors; and a revised cowl top structure and a unique trunk mounted "V" brace, both utilized for increased body rigidity.
Chassis performance and vehicle dynamics tests were conducted on the grueling Nurburgring Nordschleife closed circuit outside of Cologne, Germany. Behind the wheel of 2007 Nissan Sentra SE-R Spec V on the Nordschleife circuit was Nissan's chief development driver, Yukio Kamiyama, who was also responsible for Nissan's legendary Skyline R32 and R33 models.
"With Nissan's top development staff working on Sentra SE-R, it has achieved unprecedented levels of power and performance," said Bosley.
go to page 2 |
