The Nissan Z series has long been a symbol of performance and innovation, with a lineage of engines that have pushed the boundaries of speed and power. From the early models that captured the imagination of car enthusiasts to the modern-day machines that continue to dominate racetracks, the Z’s powerplants are as legendary as the cars themselves. Here are 10 engines that have defined the Z series and cemented Nissan’s reputation for delivering raw, unrelenting performance.
The L24 (240Z)
The engine that started it all, the L24 in the 240Z was a 2.4-liter inline-six that quickly became a favorite among driving enthusiasts. Offering 151 horsepower, it wasn’t the most powerful engine in its class, but its balance of power and reliability made the 240Z a performance icon. The L24’s smooth revving nature and reliable design ensured it held its own against European rivals.
The L28 (280Z)
Building on the success of the L24, the L28 in the 280Z was a larger, 2.8-liter inline-six that boosted the Z’s performance to new heights. With 145 horsepower, it was more powerful than its predecessor and featured improved fuel injection technology. The L28 offered better torque delivery, making the 280Z not only faster but also more enjoyable to drive on the road and track.
The VG30DE (300ZX)
The VG30DE was the 24-valve DOHC variant of the VG30E and was introduced in the 1990 300ZX. With its 3.0-liter displacement and 222 horsepower, it offered much improved power and performance. The VG30DE set the tone for the performance-oriented versions of the Z series, showcasing Nissan’s commitment to pushing boundaries with each generation.
The SR20DET (200SX, Silvia)
The SR20DET engine, found in the 200SX and Silvia, is a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four that became a favorite among tuners and drift enthusiasts. With 190-200 horsepower, the SR20DET offered a great balance of lightweight performance and aftermarket potential. Its robust build and tunability made it an engine that could handle serious upgrades without sacrificing reliability.
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The KA24DE (240SX)
The KA24DE engine powered the Nissan 240SX, a model that became famous for its drifting potential. With a 2.4-liter inline-four engine producing around 155 horsepower, the KA24DE wasn’t a powerhouse, but its torque and aftermarket support made it a favorite for tuners. The engine’s robustness and ability to handle serious modifications made it a legend in the world of motorsports.
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The RB20DET (Skyline GT-R)
The RB20DET was a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-six that powered the early Skyline GT-Rs. While smaller than the RB26DETT, the RB20DET was still highly regarded for its ability to produce solid power figures while being relatively compact. Known for its durability and tunability, it was an engine that paved the way for the more powerful RB26DETT and helped solidify the Skyline’s place in motorsport history.
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The VQ25DE (350GT)
The VQ25DE engine was the smaller version of the VQ family, found in the 350GT models. Despite its smaller displacement, it was still capable of delivering 280 horsepower, making it an attractive option for those who wanted the 350Z experience with a more manageable engine. Its smoothness and refined power made it a favorite for those looking for a more practical but still powerful Z variant.
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The L16 (510)
While not part of the core Z lineup, the L16 engine from the 510 was an important predecessor in Nissan’s performance history. This 1.6-liter inline-four engine was known for its tunability and high-revving nature, which made the 510 a favorite among racers. It laid the groundwork for the Z series by introducing performance-oriented powerplants to a more compact car design.
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The VQ37VHR (370Z)
The VQ37VHR engine, which powered the 370Z, is a 3.7-liter V6 that produced 332 horsepower, making it one of the most powerful naturally aspirated engines in the Z lineup. The VQ37VHR featured variable valve timing, which improved both performance and fuel efficiency. This engine delivered sharp throttle response, exhilarating acceleration, and was a key part of the 370Z’s status as a world-class performance machine.
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The VQ35DE (350Z)
The VQ35DE engine found in the 350Z marked a new chapter for the Z series, bringing with it a 3.5-liter V6 capable of producing 287 horsepower. This engine offered incredible torque and acceleration, pushing the 350Z to the forefront of sports car performance. Its lightweight, durable design and smooth delivery of power made it a perfect fit for the 350Z, which quickly became a modern performance icon.
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Nissan’s Z lineup has always been about pushing the limits of performance, and the engines behind these cars have been instrumental in defining the brand’s legacy. From the early inline-sixes to modern V6 turbocharged engines, each one has contributed to the Z’s reputation as a true performance icon. These 10 engines represent the peak of innovation, power, and speed that have fueled Nissan’s success in the world of sports cars. As the Z series continues to evolve, it’s clear that Nissan will continue to deliver engines that embody speed, power, and pure driving pleasure.
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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