The Nissan VG30ET is a 2,960 cc, 60‑degree V6 petrol engine produced between 1984 and 1989. It features a single overhead camshaft per bank (SOHC), 12 valves, and a Garrett T3 turbocharger, delivering outputs ranging from 180 kW (245 PS) to 206 kW (280 PS) depending on the application. Electronic fuel injection (EFI) ensures precise metering for boosted performance.
Fitted primarily to the R31 Skyline GTS‑R, 300ZX (Z31), and Leopard F31, the VG30ET was engineered for spir…
Production years 1984–1989 meet applicable Japanese and international emissions standards for their model year and market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Nissan VG30ET is a 2,960 cc 60-degree V6 turbocharged petrol engine engineered for performance coupes and sedans (1984-1989). It combines electronic fuel injection with a single turbocharger to deliver strong mid-range power and top-end thrust. Designed to meet contemporary emissions regulations, it balances exhilarating performance with drivability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 2,960 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol | |
Configuration | 60° V6, SOHC, 12-valve | |
Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
Bore × stroke | 87.0 mm × 83.0 mm | |
Power output | 180–206 kW (245–280 PS) | |
Torque | 324–353 Nm @ 3,600 rpm | |
Fuel system | Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) | |
Emissions standard | 1980s Japanese/International Standards | |
Compression ratio | 8.3:1 | |
Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
Turbocharger | Garrett T3 (single) | |
Timing system | Chain-driven | |
Oil type | 10W-40 (API SG/CD or equivalent) | |
Dry weight | 185 kg |
The Nissan VG30ET was used across Nissan's R31/Z31 platforms with longitudinal mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced engine mounts in the 300ZX and a different intercooler duct in the Skyline GTS-R-creating minor parts variations. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The VG30ET's primary reliability risk is turbocharger failure, with elevated incidence in vehicles subjected to aggressive driving without proper cooldown. Nissan internal reports from 1988 noted a correlation between neglected oil changes and turbo bearing seizures, while owner club data suggests ignition system faults are a common cause of drivability issues. Sustained high boost and heat make oil quality and cooldown procedures critical.
Analysis derived from Nissan technical bulletins (1985-1989) and owner club aggregated failure data (1990-2023). 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 VG30ET is robust when maintained correctly, but its turbocharger is a known weak point. Early failures are often due to poor maintenance, not design flaws. With regular oil changes, proper cooldowns, and attention to the ignition system, these engines can easily surpass 200,000 km. Neglect, however, leads to expensive turbo or engine repairs.
The most frequent issues are turbocharger bearing failure, ignition system faults (coils, distributor), cracked exhaust manifolds, and coolant leaks from hoses or the water pump. These are well-documented in Nissan service bulletins and enthusiast forums, with preventative maintenance being key.
The VG30ET was primarily used in the Nissan 300ZX (Z31, 1984-1989), the Skyline R31 GTS-R and GTS-X (1985-1989), and the Leopard F31 XS and XS-II (1986-1988). It was Nissan's flagship turbocharged engine for these performance-oriented models during the mid-to-late 1980s.
Yes, the VG30ET responds well to tuning. Common stage 1 mods include a boost controller, exhaust, and ECU chip, yielding 30-50 PS gains. More advanced builds use larger turbos, intercoolers, and forged internals for 400+ PS. Its strong bottom end makes it a popular choice for enthusiasts.
Fuel economy is modest for a turbo V6. Expect around 12-14 L/100km (20-17 mpg UK) in mixed driving for a 300ZX. Highway cruising can drop to 10 L/100km (28 mpg UK), while aggressive city driving can exceed 16 L/100km (18 mpg UK). It prioritizes performance over efficiency.
Yes. The VG30ET is an interference engine. If the timing chain fails or jumps, the pistons will collide with the open valves, causing catastrophic internal damage. While the chain is generally reliable, listening for unusual noises and addressing them promptly is crucial.
Nissan originally specified 10W-40 mineral oil meeting API SG/CD standards. Today, a high-quality 10W-40 semi-synthetic or full synthetic oil is recommended, especially for turbocharged engines, to better handle heat and prevent coking. Change intervals should be 5,000 km or 6 months.
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.