The Nissan E13 is a 1,270 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1982 and 1986. It features a cast iron block, aluminum cylinder head, and a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) valvetrain. This compact engine was designed for fuel efficiency and light weight in Nissan's entry-level vehicles of the early 1980s.
Fitted primarily to the Nissan Cherry (N12) and Pulsar (N12), the E13 was engineered for economical urban transportation. It offered modest power suitable for its lightweight platforms, prioritizing reliability and low running costs over performance. Emissions compliance for its production period was managed through basic carburetor tuning and ignition timing.
One documented concern is premature wear of the timing chain tensioner, which can lead to chain slack and potential failure. This issue, noted in Nissan service documentation, is often exacerbated by infrequent oil changes or the use of incorrect oil. The design, while simple, requires regular maintenance to ensure the longevity of the timing system.
Production years 1982–1986 meet applicable Japanese and international emissions standards for their respective model years (Nissan Technical Bulletin NTB-83-005).
The Nissan E13 is a 1,270 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for subcompact hatchbacks and sedans (1982-1986). It combines a simple SOHC valvetrain with a single-barrel carburetor to deliver economical, reliable performance. Designed to meet emissions standards of its era, it prioritizes serviceability and low-cost ownership.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,270 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, SOHC, 8‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 73.0 mm × 76.0 mm | |
| Power output | 44–48 kW (60–65 PS) | |
| Torque | 95–100 Nm @ 3,600 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Single-barrel downdraft carburetor | |
| Emissions standard | Japanese 1980s standards | |
| Compression ratio | 9.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven camshaft | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-30 (API SF/CC) | |
| Dry weight | 105 kg |
The SOHC design provides adequate economy for city driving but requires regular valve clearance checks every 15,000 km to maintain efficiency. Using the specified SAE 10W-30 oil is critical to protect the timing chain and tensioner from premature wear. The carburetor demands periodic cleaning to prevent rough idling. High-mileage engines should have the timing chain and tensioner inspected for wear, as failure can lead to piston-valve contact. Replacing the distributor cap and rotor as a preventative measure is recommended.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 10W-30 meeting API SF/CC specification (Nissan Owner's Manual). Modern equivalents are suitable.
Emissions: Meets Japanese emissions standards applicable to 1982-1986 model years (Nissan Technical Bulletin NTB-83-005).
Power Ratings: Measured under JIS D 1001 standards. Output varies slightly by model application and carburetor tuning (Nissan Group PT-1983).
Nissan Service Manual (SM-E13)
Nissan EPC Documentation (E13-001)
Nissan Technical Bulletin (NTB-83-005)
Nissan Owner's Manuals (Cherry N12, Pulsar N12)
The Nissan E13 was used across Nissan's N12 platform with transverse mounting. This engine received minor platform-specific adaptations-carburetor jetting for different markets-creating minimal interchange considerations. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the flat boss on the front of the cylinder block, near the alternator (Nissan SM-E13). The 8th digit of the VIN for Japanese Domestic Market (JDM) vehicles often corresponds to the engine type ('3' for E13). Visually, it can be identified by its single cam cover and compact size. Critical differentiation from the E15: The E13 has a smaller displacement (1.3L vs 1.5L) and a different bore/stroke; engine blocks are not interchangeable.
The E13's primary reliability risk is timing chain tensioner wear, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or neglected examples. Nissan service data indicates tensioner failure is a common cause for timing chain replacement, while carburetor issues are frequently cited in owner complaints. Infrequent oil changes make timing system component failure significantly more likely.
Analysis derived from Nissan technical bulletins (1982-1986) and owner workshop manual data. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about NISSAN E13.
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