with an excellent view of the terrain ahead and no distracting squeaks

or rattles. The 200SX is stable at high speeds and offers predictable handling

in slippery conditions, inspiring confidence in the driver. Its rigid chassis

and well-tuned suspension help it corner better than the competition, yet

they do a superb job of damping jolts from potholes and rough roads.

The 200SX offers excellent transient response, maintaining its composure

in abrupt maneuvers. All of these traits help make it fun to drive on a

winding road. The SE-R has an edge over the SE and base model in the handling

department with its aggressive tires, thicker front anti-roll bar and limited-slip

differential.

That edge is broadened by the SE-R's more powerful 2.0-liter engine

that revs freely to 7100 rpm. This engine is silky smooth and works in

concert with a smooth-shifting five-speed gearbox for a great back road

driving experience. The SE-R's engine produces slightly more torque and

nearly the same horsepower as the smaller 1.8-liter engine in the $19,000

Acura Integra LS, and delivers excellent throttle response, particularly

in fifth gear. The limited-slip front differential puts the SE-R's power

to best use by limiting wheelspin when powering around a corner.

The 200SX SE-R more than holds its own on the race track. It scored

two class victories and finished second overall, with a member of the New

Car Test Drive test staff among its driving crew, at last year's Longest

Day 24-hour road race at the Nelson Ledges road course in Southington,

Ohio.