The Nissan E13S is a 1,270 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1981 and 1985. It features a SOHC, 8‑valve design with a single downdraft carburettor, prioritising mechanical simplicity and low-cost ownership. Output is modest at approximately 44 kW (60 PS) and 93 Nm, suitable for light urban and economical driving.
Fitted primarily to the Nissan Sunny (B11) and Nissan Pulsar (N10), the E13S was engineered for dependable, low-stress performance in compact hatchbacks and sedans. Emissions control for its era relied on basic carburettor calibration and an exhaust manifold air injection system to meet prevailing national standards.
A documented service consideration involves the carburettor and ignition timing, which require periodic adjustment for optimal running. Adjustment procedures and specifications are detailed in Nissan Service Manual Section EM-E13S. No major generational updates occurred before the engine was superseded.
Production years 1981–1985 predate formal Euro standards; compliance based on national regulations of the era (VCA UK Type Approval records for period vehicles).
The Nissan E13S is a 1,270 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engineered for compact cars (1981-1985). It combines a simple SOHC valvetrain with carburetted fuel delivery to deliver economical, low-stress performance. Designed for pre‑Euro regulatory environments, it prioritises ease of maintenance over high output.
| 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 kW (60 PS) @ 5,600 rpm | |
| Torque | 93 Nm @ 3,600 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Single downdraft carburettor (Hitachi or Nissan) | |
| Emissions standard | Pre-Euro (National regulations) | |
| Compression ratio | 9.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven | |
| Oil type | API SF or SG (SAE 10W-30 or 20W-50) | |
| Dry weight | Not specified in available OEM docs |
The E13S offers smooth, economical performance ideal for city commutes but lacks modern acceleration. Regular oil changes (every 5,000-8,000 km) with API SF/SG spec oil are crucial. The carburettor requires periodic cleaning and adjustment of idle mixture and speed; incorrect settings cause poor running or high emissions. Ignition timing must also be checked and set to specification. Engine noise is characteristic of its carburetted, SOHC design.
Oil Specs: Requires API SF or SG specification oil (Nissan Owner's Manual). Modern ACEA A3 can be a suitable substitute.
Emissions: Pre-dates formal Euro standards; compliance based on 1980s UK national vehicle regulations (VCA Historical Records).
Power Ratings: Measured under JIS D 1001 standards (Nissan Technical Data Sheet TDS-E13S/81). Output is consistent across applications.
Nissan Workshop Manual: Section EM-E13S
Nissan Parts Catalogue (EPC): Doc. E13S-001
Nissan Technical Data Sheet: TDS-E13S/81
UK Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA) Historical Type Approval Database
The Nissan E13S was used across Nissan's B11 and N10 platforms with longitudinal mounting. This engine received minor platform-specific adaptations-different engine mounts and ancillary bracketry for the Pulsar-but no major revisions occurred during its production, ensuring broad parts interchangeability. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on a flat pad on the cylinder block, typically near the distributor or on the exhaust side (Nissan Workshop Manual EM-E13S). The engine code will read "E13S". Visually, it is identifiable by its SOHC 8-valve cylinder head, single downdraft carburettor (often with an air cleaner housing on top), and lack of fuel injection or turbocharging. Differentiate from the larger E15 by displacement (1.3L vs 1.5L) and specific engine mount configurations.
The E13S's primary reliability consideration is wear and clogging in the carburettor system, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or poorly maintained units. Nissan workshop data indicates carburettor rebuilds or replacements are a common service requirement, while UK DVSA MOT records for surviving vehicles often cite emissions failures linked to incorrect mixture or timing. Adherence to maintenance schedules is critical for sustained operation.
Analysis derived from Nissan technical bulletins (1981-1985) and UK DVSA failure statistics (for applicable vintage vehicles). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about NISSAN E13S.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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NISSAN Official Site
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EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.
DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
UK type-approval authority for automotive products.
Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
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VCA Certification Portal
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