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This is an over-view of the history of the SR/i models. Please see the Brochure scans at the bottom of the page for details of the various guises of the SR/i over the years.
The first and original sporty version of the Nova was the SR, which was available almost from the launch of the Nova, back in mid 83.
From the start, this was a high performance variant and was the only model fitted with the 1.3LET engine. It also gained a front, lower-bumper air-dam, tailgate spoiler and special two-tone paint treatment, making it stand out from the normal models.
To make it yet more distinguished, it was available with the famous 3-spoke alloys, as an optional extra.
The interior did not miss out on this sports treatment, with the fitment of sports front seats, in distinctive "Daytona-check" trim and the fitment of a unique dashboard, which added a rev-counter, oil-pressure gauge and battery voltage gauges (though also fitted to the GL model in later production).
Up until mid 1985, the SR used the Pierburg (Solex) 1B1 carburettor. This is the same carb as fitted to the 1.2 models, but had different Venturi diameter, main jet size, idle mixture outlet diameter and choke valve gap.
From mid 1985, the SR was fitted with the Pierburg 2E3 Carburettor. This is a twin-barrel design and features an automatic-choke. Be wary of this auto-choke, as it can stop working completely, causing reliability problems come winter time.
From 86, the SR gained the new interior trim in "Plaid" fabric. From 01/10/89 the SR gained the new "lean-burn" 1.4 engine that replaced the 1.3 in all models available with the larger engine.
From 01/11/90, the SR changed shape in following the new MKII look. New interior trim in red or blue "Zipper" fabric livened up the inside, whilst new bumpers, grill and tailgate spoiler combined to give the new more modern look.
The 1.4 carbed engine continued in use up to 01/10/91 when a new multi-point injection system was added to give 82bhp and the SRi was born!
More to follow.....
A sports model of the Nova, originally fitted with a 1.3 with a single choke carb, then with a twin choke carb from 1987. A 1.4 was then fitted from late 1988.
With the introduction of the MKII Nova, the SR became continued to use the 1.4 carbed engine as before, but from late 92, it became available with fuel injection (SRi) in the multipoint injection form.
The original SRs have a Brown and Yellow tartan-type fabric, which was replaced by Grey with red in the similar pattern, from 1986.
In late 1987, this interior was replaced by Grey velour with the seat centres the same as the Merit!
