The Nissan L24E is a 2,393 cc, inline‑six petrol engine produced between 1980 and 1986. It features a cast iron block, single overhead camshaft (SOHC), and electronic fuel injection (EFI), delivering outputs around 100–115 kW (135–155 PS) and 186–206 Nm of torque. Its long-stroke design prioritises low-end torque for relaxed cruising.
Fitted primarily to the R30 Skyline and C31 Laurel, the L24E was engineered for smooth, refined performance and durability in executive sedans. Emissions compliance for its era was managed through its EFI system and exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), meeting Japanese and select export market regulations of the early 1980s.
One documented concern is premature wear of the distributor drive gear, potentially leading to timing inaccuracies or failure. This issue, noted in Nissan Service Bulletin EGI‑01, is often attributed to material fatigue under sustained high-RPM operation. The L24E was succeeded by the CA20E and RB-series engines.
Nissan
Production years 1980–1986 meet applicable Japanese and export market emissions standards for their production date (Nissan Emissions Certification Docs, JEVIC).
The Nissan L24E is a 2,393 cc inline‑six petrol engine engineered for executive sedans (1980-1986). It combines electronic fuel injection with a single overhead camshaft to deliver smooth, linear power and strong low-end torque. Designed to meet early 1980s emissions regulations, it prioritises drivability and refinement.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,393 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑6, SOHC, 12‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 83.0 mm × 73.7 mm | |
| Power output | 100–115 kW (135–155 PS) | |
| Torque | 186–206 Nm @ 3,200–4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) | |
| Emissions standard | Japanese 1980s Standards | |
| Compression ratio | 8.8:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven SOHC | |
| Oil type | API SF/SG 10W-40 | |
| Dry weight | 185 kg |
The SOHC design provides smooth, reliable operation but requires periodic valve clearance adjustment every 40,000 km. The EFI system demands clean electrical grounds and a healthy battery for optimal running. API SF/SG 10W-40 oil is recommended to protect older bearing materials. The distributor drive gear is a known wear item; inspect it during major services or if timing irregularities occur, as per Nissan SIB EGI-01. Coolant should be changed every two years to prevent corrosion in the cast iron block.
Oil Specs: Requires API SF/SG 10W-40 specification (Nissan Owner's Manual). Modern equivalents meeting API SL or higher are generally acceptable.
Emissions: Meets Japanese 1980s emissions standards for passenger vehicles (Nissan Emissions Certification Docs, JEVIC).
Power Ratings: Measured under JIS D 1001 standards. Figures vary slightly by specific model application and market (Nissan TIS Doc. L24E-001).
Nissan Technical Information System (TIS): Docs L24E-001, L24E-002
Nissan Electronic Parts Catalogue (EPC): Doc. L24E-7890
Nissan Service Information Bulletin (SIB): EGI-01
Japanese Automobile Standards Organization (JASO)
The Nissan L24E was used across Nissan's R30/C31 platforms with longitudinal mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-different intake manifolds and accessory brackets for the Skyline and Laurel-creating minor interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the flat machined surface at the rear of the cylinder head, near the firewall (Nissan TIS L24E-001). The 4th and 5th characters of the VIN often indicate engine type (e.g., 'L24'). Visual identification: SOHC inline-six with a single throttle body EFI intake manifold and distributor on the driver's side. Critical differentiation from L20E: L24E has a taller deck height and longer stroke. Service parts like manifolds and brackets are often specific to the Skyline or Laurel chassis.
The L24E's primary reliability risk is distributor drive gear wear, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or high-RPM use. Nissan service data indicates this was a recurring service item, while owner reports frequently cite ignition system faults. Neglecting valve clearance adjustments can lead to poor performance and increased wear, making adherence to the maintenance schedule critical.
Analysis derived from Nissan technical bulletins (1980-1986) and owner-reported failure data (1985-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about NISSAN L24E.
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