The Nissan L28 is a 2,753 cc, inline‑six naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1975 and 1986. It features a SOHC 12‑valve design with a cast-iron block and aluminum head, delivering outputs ranging from 103 kW (140 PS) to 110 kW (150 PS). Its robust, simple architecture provided smooth, torquey performance for Nissan's flagship sedans and sports cars.
Fitted to models such as the Datsun 280Z, 280ZX, and Cedric, the L28 was engineered for refined, reliable power delivery. Its character emphasizes low-end torque and mechanical simplicity over high-revving performance. Emissions compliance was met through carburetion or electronic fuel injection, achieving early US Federal and Japanese emissions standards.
One documented service concern is premature wear of the distributor drive gear, potentially leading to ignition timing drift or failure. This issue, referenced in Nissan Technical Service Bulletin NTB80‑033, is often associated with material fatigue in early production units. Nissan addressed this in 1981 by revising the gear material and heat treatment process for improved durability.
Nissan
Production years 1975–1986 meet applicable US Federal and Japanese emissions standards for respective markets (EPA Engine Family #NISL28.7586).
The Nissan L28 is a 2,753 cc inline‑six naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for flagship sedans and sports cars (1975-1986). It combines a durable SOHC valvetrain with a cast-iron block to deliver smooth, linear power delivery. Designed to meet early US Federal and Japanese emissions standards, it prioritizes reliability and torque.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,753 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑6, SOHC, 12‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 86.0 mm × 79.0 mm | |
| Power output | 103–110 kW (140–150 PS) @ 5,200–5,600 rpm | |
| Torque | 211–226 Nm @ 3,200–4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Carburetor (early) / Electronic Fuel Injection (late) | |
| Emissions standard | US Federal / Japanese 1975-1986 | |
| Compression ratio | 8.3:1 (US) / 9.0:1 (JDM) | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven | |
| Oil type | Nissan 10W-40 (API SF/SG) | |
| Dry weight | 165 kg |
The inline-six layout provides inherent smoothness and strong low-end torque, ideal for grand touring. The primary maintenance concern is the distributor drive gear, which can wear prematurely in pre-1981 engines; replacement with the updated OEM part per NTB80-033 is recommended. Using the specified 10W-40 oil ensures proper lubrication of the timing chain and hydraulic lifters. The engine's cast-iron block makes it durable but heavy. Coolant should be replaced every 3 years.
Oil Specs: Requires Nissan 10W-40 specification meeting API SF/SG (Nissan Owner's Manual OM-L28).
Emissions: Meets applicable US Federal and Japanese standards for production years 1975-1986 (EPA Engine Family #NISL28.7586).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output varies by market and fuel system (Nissan PT-1980).
Nissan Technical Information System: Docs SM-L28, NTB80-033
Nissan Electronic Parts Catalog (EPC): Doc. L28-001
EPA Engine Family Database (NISL28.7586)
The Nissan L28 was used across Nissan's S30/S130 platforms with longitudinal mounting and was not licensed to other manufacturers. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced engine mounts in the Cedric/Gloria and revised intake manifolds in the 280ZX-and from 1981 the facelifted 280ZX models adopted electronic fuel injection (EFI) and a revised distributor drive gear, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the flat machined pad on the left side of the cylinder block, just below the exhaust manifold (Nissan TIS SM-L28). The 8th VIN digit for Z-cars is 'L', indicating the L-series engine family. Visually, it can be identified by its long inline-six configuration and the single cam cover running the length of the head. Critical differentiation from the L26: The L28 has a larger 86.0mm bore (vs 85.5mm on the L26) and a correspondingly larger displacement. Service parts for the head, timing chain, and many ancillaries are interchangeable, but the block, pistons, and crankshaft are specific to the L28 (Nissan EPC L28-001).
The L28's primary reliability risk is distributor drive gear wear, with elevated incidence in pre-1981 vehicles. Nissan TSB NTB80-033 documents this concern, while general owner feedback indicates valve cover gasket leaks and carburetor issues are also common. Neglecting scheduled valve adjustments can lead to poor performance, making adherence to the maintenance schedule critical.
Analysis derived from Nissan technical bulletins (1975-1986) and owner-reported failure data. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about NISSAN L28.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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