The 3.0-liter Nissan VG30DE engine was produced by the company from 1986 to 2000 and was installed both in civilian cars and in popular sports models of the 300ZR and 300ZX families. The power unit was offered in a wide range of capacities and was equipped with a phase regulator.
VG family: VG20E, VG20ET, VG20DET, VG30i, VG30E, VG30ET, VG30DE, VG30DET, VG30DETT, VG33E.
Specifications
| Production years | 1986-2000 |
| Displacement, cc | 2960 |
| Fuel system | distributed injection |
| Power output, hp | 185 – 230 |
| Torque output, Nm | 245 – 280 |
| Cylinder block | cast iron V6 |
| Block head | aluminum 24v |
| Cylinder bore, mm | 87 |
| Piston stroke, mm | 83 |
| Compression ratio | 9.0 – 11.0 |
| Features | no |
| Hydraulic lifters | yes |
| Timing drive | belt |
| Phase regulator | at the N-VCT inlet |
| Turbocharging | no |
| Recommended engine oil | 5W-30 |
| Engine oil capacity, liter | 3.4 |
| Fuel type | petrol |
| Euro standards | EURO 2/3 |
| Fuel consumption, L/100 km (for Nissan Leopard 1995) — city — highway — combined |
14.7 10.7 13.1 |
| Engine lifespan, km | ~375 000 |
| Weight, kg | 230 |
The engine was installed on:
- Nissan 300ZX 3 (Z31) in 1986 – 1989, 300ZX 4 (Z32) in 1989 – 2000;
- Nissan Cedric 7 (Y31) in 1987 – 1991, Cedric 8 (Y32) in 1991 – 1995;
- Nissan Cima 1 (Y31) in 1988 – 1991;
- Nissan Gloria 9 (Y32) in 1991 – 1995;
- Nissan Leopard 2 (F31) in 1986 – 1992, Leopard 3 (Y32) in 1992 – 1996;
- Infiniti J30 1 (Y32) in 1992 – 1997.
Disadvantages of the VG30DE engine
- The most problematic is the frequent cracking of the exhaust manifold;
- In addition, the exhaust gasket constantly burns and the studs of its fastening break;
- Often there is a bend in the valves in the engine due to a broken crankshaft shank;
- The same thing will happen if the owner skips the timing belt replacement schedule;
- After 100,000 km of run, the pump and the top radiator cap are often changed here.
Frequently asked questions about the Nissan VG30DE
How much power does the Nissan VG30DE make?
The Nissan VG30DE develops 185 - 230 hp and 245 - 280 Nm of torque.
How much oil does the Nissan VG30DE take and which one?
Engine oil capacity: 3.4 liters. Recommended oil: 5W-30.
Does the Nissan VG30DE have a timing belt or chain?
The Nissan VG30DE uses a timing belt.
Is the Nissan VG30DE turbocharged?
No, the Nissan VG30DE is naturally aspirated.
Does the Nissan VG30DE need valve clearance adjustment?
No, the Nissan VG30DE has hydraulic lifters, so the valve clearances do not need to be adjusted.
How long does the Nissan VG30DE last?
The typical lifespan of the Nissan VG30DE is ~375 000 km with proper maintenance.
What is the fuel consumption of the Nissan VG30DE?
Nissan Leopard 1995: city 14.7, highway 10.7, combined 13.1 L/100 km.
What cars was the Nissan VG30DE installed on?
Nissan 300ZX 3 (Z31) in 1986 - 1989, 300ZX 4 (Z32) in 1989 - 2000; Nissan Cedric 7 (Y31) in 1987 - 1991, Cedric 8 (Y32) in 1991 - 1995; Nissan Cima 1 (Y31) in 1988 - 1991; Nissan Gloria 9 (Y32) in 1991 - 1995; Nissan Leopard 2 (F31) in 1986 - 1992, Leopard 3 (Y32) in 1992 - 1996; Infiniti J30 1 (Y32) in 1992 - 1997.
What are the common problems of the Nissan VG30DE?
The most problematic is the frequent cracking of the exhaust manifold. In addition, the exhaust gasket constantly burns and the studs of its fastening break. All known problems.
