Nissan's SR engine series is a legendary lineup of compact, high-performance engines that have powered numerous Nissan vehicles over the years. From the race track to the streets, these engines have garnered a reputation for their power, reliability, and versatility. In this comprehensive guide, we'll delve into the details of each SR engine variant, exploring their specifications, applications, and contributions to Nissan's automotive legacy.
Introduction to the SR Engine Series
The SR engine series comprises a range of straight-four, four-stroke gasoline engines manufactured by Nissan. These engines come in various displacements, including 1.6 L (SR16VE), 1.8 L (SR18Di, SR18DE), and 2.0 L (SR20Di, SR20DE, SR20DET, SR20VE, SR20VET). They feature an aluminum head and block with steel sleeves, a DOHC 4-valve design, and variable valve timing on select models.
Each SR engine variant in detail:
SR16VE
The SR16VE is a 1.6 L engine equipped with Nissan's Neo VVL variable valve timing with lift control. It generates 175 PS at 7800 rpm and 119 lb⋅ft of torque at 7200 rpm, making it a potent powerplant for compact Nissan models. Notably, the SR16VE N1 version, used in limited-production models like the Pulsar VZ-R N1, cranks out an impressive 200 PS.
Applications:
- N15 Nissan Pulsar VZ-R
- B14 Nissan Lucino VZ-R
- B15 Nissan Sunny VZ-R
SR18Di
The SR18Di is a 1.8 L DOHC engine producing 110 PS at 6500 rpm and 150 N⋅m of torque at 4000 rpm. While not the most powerful SR variant, it served well in various Nissan models, including the Primera and Sunny.
Applications:
- 1990-1993 Nissan Primera
- Nissan Sunny
- Nissan Bluebird U12
- Nissan Avenir W10
SR18DE
The SR18DE is another 1.8 L DOHC engine delivering 125 PS at 6000 rpm and 156 N⋅m of torque at 4800 rpm. With its Multi Point Fuel Injection System ECCS, it offered a balance of power and efficiency, making it a popular choice for Nissan's lineup.
Applications:
- 1991-1997 Nissan Primera
- Nissan Sunny
- Nissan Avenir W10
- Nissan Rasheen
- Nissan Bluebird U13 and U14
- Nissan Pulsar GTi B13, N14, and N15
- Nissan Presea
SR20Di
The SR20Di is a 2.0 L DOHC engine producing 116 PS. While not as potent as its turbocharged counterpart, the SR20DET, the SR20Di found its place in various Nissan models, offering reliable performance.
Applications:
- 1991–1994.6 Nissan Primera
SR20DE
The SR20DE is a 2.0 L DOHC engine widely used across Nissan's lineup. With power outputs ranging from 125 to 165 hp, it provided ample performance for sporty models like the 180SX, Silvia, and Infiniti G20.
Applications:
- 180SX
- 200SX SE-R
- Almera
- Almera Tino
- Avenir
- Bluebird
- Infiniti G20
- NX2000
- Presea
- Primera
- Pulsar
- Sentra
- Serena
- Silvia
- Wingroad
- Tommykaira ZZ
SR20DET
The SR20DET is the turbocharged version of the SR20DE, offering power outputs ranging from 204 PS to 250 PS. It became iconic in models like the Pulsar GTi-R, Silvia, and 180SX, showcasing Nissan's prowess in turbocharging technology.
Applications:
- Nissan Pulsar RNN14 GTi-R
- Nissan Silvia S13 and S14
- Nissan 180SX
- Nissan 200SX
- Nissan Avenir
- Nissan R'nessa
- Nissan Liberty
- Nissan Sentra
- Nissan Serena
SR20VE
The SR20VE features Nissan's Neo VVL variable valve timing with lift control, producing 190 PS to 204 PS. With its advanced technology, it offered a blend of performance and efficiency, making it a standout choice for performance-oriented Nissan models.
Applications:
- Nissan Primera
- Nissan Bluebird
- Nissan Wingroad
- ASL Garaiya sports car
SR20VET
The SR20VET is a turbocharged engine with variable valve lift, producing 280 PS. While exclusive to the Japanese market, it showcased Nissan's engineering prowess in turbocharged, high-performance engines.
Applications:
- Nissan X-Trail GT
Conclusion
The Nissan SR engine series stands as a testament to Nissan's commitment to performance and innovation. From naturally aspirated powerhouses to turbocharged beasts, these engines have powered iconic Nissan models and contributed to the brand's success in motorsport and on the streets. Whether it's the high-revving SR16VE or the boost-happy SR20DET, each SR engine variant has left its mark on automotive enthusiasts worldwide.
