Hey car guys! Ever wondered, "What engine is in a Nissan 350z?" Well, you've come to the right place. The Nissan 350z is a legendary sports car, and a huge part of its appeal is the incredible engine that powers it. We're talking about the VQ35DE engine, a V6 powerhouse that made the 350z a serious contender in its class. This isn't just any engine; it's a piece of automotive history that delivered thrilling performance and a sound that still gives us goosebumps. Whether you're a seasoned mechanic, a potential buyer, or just a fan of JDM legends, understanding this engine is key to appreciating what makes the 350z so special. We'll break down its specs, its variants, and why it's still so beloved today. Get ready to rev your engines as we explore the heart of the 350z!

Unpacking the VQ35DE: The Heartbeat of the 350z

So, let's get straight to it: What engine is in a Nissan 350z? The primary engine that graced the Nissan 350z throughout most of its production run is the legendary VQ35DE. This isn't just a random engine code; it signifies a 3.5-liter, naturally aspirated V6 that became synonymous with the 350z's performance identity. Developed by Nissan, the VQ series engines are renowned for their smooth operation, impressive power output, and remarkable reliability. The DE designation typically indicates a DOHC (Double Overhead Camshaft) setup with Electronic Fuel Injection. What made the VQ35DE in the 350z so special was its application in a rear-wheel-drive sports car platform. This combination allowed for excellent weight distribution and a driving experience that was both engaging and exhilarating. The engine itself is an all-aluminum V6, featuring a 60-degree bank angle. This design contributes to its compact size and relatively light weight, which is crucial for a sports car's handling dynamics. Early versions of the VQ35DE produced around 287 horsepower, but Nissan wasn't done yet. As the 350z evolved, so did its engine. Later models saw power bumps, with some variants pushing out over 300 horsepower, especially with the introduction of the Rev-Up engine (which we'll touch on later). The VQ35DE is also known for its broad powerband, meaning it delivers strong performance across a wide range of RPMs, making it feel lively whether you're cruising or pushing it hard on a winding road. The sound it produces is also a significant part of its charm – a deep, aggressive growl that lets everyone know a V6 beast is nearby. It’s this blend of power, smoothness, reliability, and sound that cemented the VQ35DE's legendary status and made the 350z a performance bargain.

Key Features of the VQ35DE Engine:

When we talk about what engine is in a Nissan 350z, we're really talking about a marvel of engineering. The VQ35DE is a 3.5-liter V6 powerhouse, and its design boasts several key features that contributed to its stellar reputation. Firstly, it's an all-aluminum construction. This means the engine block and cylinder heads are made from aluminum, which significantly reduces weight compared to traditional iron blocks. Less weight in the engine bay translates to better handling, improved acceleration, and enhanced fuel efficiency – all crucial elements for a sports car like the 350z. Secondly, it features Dual Overhead Camshafts (DOHC) with four valves per cylinder. This setup allows for more precise control over the intake and exhaust valves, leading to better airflow into and out of the combustion chambers. The result is improved power output and efficiency across the entire rev range. The engine also employs Variable Valve Event and Lift (VVEL) technology in later iterations, further optimizing valve timing for increased performance and better fuel economy, though this was more prominent in later Nissan models. The 60-degree V-angle of the cylinders is another important design choice. This angle creates a naturally balanced engine, reducing vibrations and contributing to the VQ35DE's characteristic smoothness. For those who love the technical details, the bore and stroke are approximately 95.5 mm and 81.4 mm, respectively, giving it that 3.5-liter displacement. It also utilizes sequential multi-port fuel injection (SMPI), ensuring each cylinder receives the optimal amount of fuel for efficient combustion. The engine control unit (ECU) manages all these systems, constantly adjusting parameters to maximize performance and economy based on driving conditions. The VQ35DE isn't just about raw numbers; it's about intelligent design that delivers a potent and refined driving experience. Its robust internal components, like forged crankshafts and connecting rods in some versions, contribute to its ability to handle high RPMs and boosted applications, though the stock naturally aspirated versions are incredibly capable on their own. Understanding these features really highlights why the VQ35DE became so iconic.

Evolution of the 350z Engine: From DE to Rev-Up and Beyond

Now, it's not just a simple story of one engine. When discussing what engine is in a Nissan 350z, it's important to know that there were some key evolutions, primarily focusing on the VQ35DE. While the core 3.5-liter V6 remained, Nissan tweaked and refined it over the years to extract more performance and meet evolving standards. The most significant evolution most enthusiasts will point to is the VQ35HR engine, often referred to as the