The Nissan MA10S is a 987 cc, inline‑three naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1982 and 1988. It features a cast iron block, aluminum cylinder head, and a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) valvetrain. This compact engine was designed for maximum fuel efficiency and light weight in Nissan's smallest city cars.
Fitted exclusively to the Nissan Micra/March (K10), the MA10S was engineered for economical urban transportation. It offered modest power suitabl…
Production years 1982–1988 meet applicable Japanese emissions standards for their respective model years (Nissan Technical Bulletin NTB-84-007).
The Nissan MA10S is a 987 cc inline‑three naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for subcompact city cars (1982-1988). It combines a simple SOHC valvetrain with a single-barrel carburetor to deliver economical, reliable urban performance. Designed to meet emissions standards of its era, it prioritizes minimal weight and low-cost ownership.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 987 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol | |
Configuration | Inline‑3, SOHC, 6‑valve | |
Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
Bore × stroke | 73.0 mm × 78.0 mm | |
Power output | 33–37 kW (45–50 PS) | |
Torque | 74–77 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 | 85 kg |
The Nissan MA10S was used exclusively in Nissan's K10 platform with transverse mounting. This engine received minimal platform-specific adaptations, creating straightforward interchange. All specifications are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The MA10S's primary reliability risk is valvetrain wear, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or neglected examples. Nissan service data indicates rocker arm and cam lobe wear is a common cause for top-end rebuilds, while carburetor issues are frequently cited in owner complaints. Infrequent oil changes and incorrect oil viscosity make valvetrain component failure significantly more likely.
Analysis derived from Nissan technical bulletins (1982-1988) and owner workshop manual 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 MA10S is a fundamentally simple and robust engine. Its long-term reliability is good with consistent maintenance, particularly regular oil changes with the correct type of oil to protect the valvetrain. Well-maintained examples can easily reach 150,000-200,000 km, which is exceptional for a small city car engine of its era.
The most frequent issues are wear in the camshaft and rocker arms, problems with the aging carburetor (clogging, leaks), timing chain stretch, and distributor component wear (points, cap, rotor). These are well-documented in Nissan service literature and are common to many carbureted engines of the 1980s.
The MA10S was used exclusively in the first-generation Nissan Micra (known as the March in Japan) with the K10 chassis code, produced from 1982 to 1988. It was the base engine for this model in many markets.
Significant power gains are very difficult due to its small displacement and simple design. Minor improvements can be made with a performance carburetor, free-flow exhaust, and ignition upgrades. However, its primary design goal was economy, not performance. For more power, an engine swap is the most practical solution.
Fuel economy is excellent. Expect around 5.5-6.5 L/100km (43-51 mpg UK) in mixed city driving for a Micra K10. Its lightweight design and small displacement make it one of the most economical engines of its time.
Yes. The MA10S is an interference engine. If the timing chain fails or jumps, the pistons will collide with the open valves, resulting in bent valves and potentially damaged pistons, requiring a major engine rebuild.
Nissan originally specified SAE 10W-30 oil meeting API SF/CC standards. For today's oils, a high-quality 10W-30 or 10W-40 mineral oil with a ZDDP (zinc) additive is strongly recommended to protect the flat-tappet camshaft and rocker arms.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
Independent Technical Reference
EngineCode.uk is an independent technical reference platform operated by Engine Finders UK Ltd. We are not affiliated with NISSAN or any other manufacturer. All content is compiled from official sources for educational, research, and identification purposes.
Strict Sourcing Protocol
Only official OEM publications and government portals are cited.
No Unverified Sources
No Wikipedia, forums, blogs, or third-party aggregators are used.
Transparency in Gaps
If a data point is not officially disclosed, it is marked 'Undisclosed'.
Regulatory Stability
EU regulations are referenced using CELEX identifiers for long-term stability.
NISSAN Official Site
Owner literature, service manuals, technical releases, and plant documentation.
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
UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.
VCA Certification Portal
Type-approval guidance and documentation.
Data Compilation
All data is compiled from OEM and government publications, reviewed by our editorial team, and updated regularly.
Corrections & Submissions
To request a correction or submit documentation, email: corrections@enginecode.uk
Fair Dealing Use
All engine and vehicle images are used under UK 'fair dealing' principles for technical identification and educational use. Rights remain with their respective owners.
Copyright Concerns
For copyright concerns, email: copyrights@enginecode.uk
GDPR Compliance
EngineCode.uk complies with UK GDPR. We do not collect personal data unless explicitly provided.
Data Requests
For access, correction, or deletion requests, email: gdpr@enginecode.uk
Trademark Notice
All trademarks, logos, and engine codes are the property of their respective owners. Use on this site is strictly for reference and identification.
No Paid Endorsements
This website contains no paid endorsements, affiliate links, or commercial partnerships. We do not sell parts or services.
Funding Model
Our mission is to provide accurate, verifiable, and neutral technical data for owners, restorers, and technicians. This site is self-funded.
All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialNISSAN documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed”.
All external links open in new tabs. Please verify current availability of resources.