Nissan's Legendary RB25 Explained: A Technical Insight

Jun 2, 2023

Nissan's Legendary RB25 Explained: A Technical Insight


For the JDM car enthusiasts out there, the Nissan RB series engines hold a special place in their hearts. The RB series has been an iconic engine range since the 80s and continues to be a favorite among car enthusiasts worldwide. Among the several engines belonging to this range, the RB25 engine holds a special relevance. So let's dive in and learn what makes the RB25 such a legendary engine.

First of all, let's start with the terminology:

D: Means dual overhead cams are used in the engine
E: Indicates electronical fuel injection for individual engine ports
S: Indicates engine is carburated
T and TT: T indicates factory built turbocharger, double T means dual turbocharger
P: Means engine uses LPG instead of gasoline


History of RB25 Engine


First introduced in 1991, the RB25DET engine was used prominently in the Skyline GT-R R32 series. Nissan then produced and used a turbocharged version of the RB25 engine in various models such as Nissan Laurel, Cefiro, and Stagea. The RB25DET engine is known for its ability to handle high horsepower and torque levels and is still a popular choice for drifting and drag racing enthusiasts.


Technical Specifications



The RB25DET engine is a straight-six 2.5-liter engine delivering 245 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque. It comes equipped with a twin-scroll turbocharger, an intercooler, and a six-speed manual gearbox. The engine head comprises of four valves per cylinder, with the camshafts driven by a timing chain. Additionally, the engine has been designed with a unique oil system, which includes a squirrel-cage type of oil pump that can circulate oil more efficiently than other engines of its time.


Innovative Design Features



The RB25DET engine has its intake and exhaust ports optimized via finely detailed calculations to maximize airflow. Furthermore, it comes equipped with Variable Valve Timing and Lift (VVT) technology on the inlet camshaft, increasing the thermal efficiency of the engine and enhancing its fuel economy, making it one of the more innovative engines of its time.



RB25 Engine- Aftermarket Support


The RB25DET engine is an aftermarket tuner's favorite, and it has a massive number of tuning parts available. Car enthusiasts can change multiple components, including fuel injectors, camshafts, turbos, and cylinder heads, significantly enhancing the engine's performance and making it a favorite among drifters.



Pros and Cons



Advantages of choosing an RB25 engine include excellent performance in high horsepower and torque applications, innovative engineering, and widespread aftermarket support. However, the downsides of the RB25 engine include its relative expense and being somewhat challenging to work on, making it not favored by beginners and the less mechanically inclined.


In conclusion, the Nissan RB25 engine remains an incredibly desirable engine among car enthusiasts worldwide and is considered a legendary JDM engine. With its unique oil system, cutting-edge technology, and aftermarket support, the RB25 is an engine that will undoubtedly remain an iconic engine in the automobile world for generations to come. If you're looking to step up your game and stand apart from the run-of-the-mill engine choices out there, look no further than the legendary RB25 engine. Check out our stock of genuine Japanese-Made rb25 engines to further enhance your Skyline!