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 pow…
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 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.
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.
The most common questions about engine codes, what they mean, how to find them and how this database works
The L28 is renowned for its exceptional long-term reliability and durability, thanks to its simple SOHC design and robust cast-iron block. Its main weakness is the distributor drive gear in pre-1981 models. With regular valve adjustments and timely replacement of the drive gear, it can easily exceed 300,000 km. Its non-interference design also provides a safety net against timing chain failure.
The most frequent issues are distributor drive gear wear (causing ignition failure), valve cover gasket leaks (causing oil consumption), and carburetor problems on early models (causing running issues). Excessive valve clearance is also common if not adjusted regularly. These are well-documented in Nissan service information.
The L28 engine was used in the Datsun/Nissan 280Z (S30, 1975-1978), 280ZX (S130, 1979-1983), Cedric/Gloria (430, 1979-1983), and Laurel (C32, 1980-1984). It was the largest and most powerful engine in the L-series family.
Significant power gains are possible. As a robust, simple engine, it responds well to modifications like performance camshafts, larger carburetors or EFI conversions, headers, and cylinder head porting. Many enthusiasts have successfully turbocharged the L28 for substantial power increases.
Moderate for its era and size. Official figures for the 280ZX are around 10.5 L/100km (27 mpg UK). Real-world driving typically yields 12.0-14.0 L/100km (20-24 mpg UK) in mixed conditions, reflecting its large displacement and focus on torque over economy.
No. The L28 is a non-interference engine. If the timing chain were to fail or jump, the pistons would not collide with the valves. This design provides a significant safety margin against catastrophic engine damage.
Nissan originally specified a 10W-40 viscosity grade engine oil meeting API SF or SG standards. Modern equivalents meeting API SN or higher are also suitable and recommended. Change intervals should not exceed 10,000 km or 6 months.
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