Nissan RB Engines: The Iconic Inline Six Powerplant

Nissan RB Engines: The Iconic Inline Six Powerplant

RB25

1993 Nissan Skyline R33 GTST with hood open showing engine
93′ R33 with a flat six RB25
Source: Bring-A-Trailer
RB25 EnginePowerDisplacementConfiguration
RB25DET250 HP / 253 PS / 186 kW2.5LInline 6
RB25DE200 HP / 203 PS / 149 kW2.5LInline 6
RB25DE NEO197 HP / 200 PS / 147 kW2.5LInline 6
RB25DET NEO276 HP / 280 PS / 206 kW2.5LInline 6
Approx. performance specs for the RB25 engines

The RB25DE engine, with its 2.5-liter displacement, offers increased power potential and torque compared to the RB20DE. Of course utilizing an inline-six configuration, and incorporating a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) setup—the engine typically generated around 180 to 190 horsepower and 160 to 170 lb-ft of torque. The RB25DE engine was produced from the mid-1990s through the early 2000s. This engine found its home in various notable Nissan vehicles, significantly enhancing their performance and reputation. Standout models included the Nissan Skyline R33 and R34 generations. These RB25DE-equipped vehicles garnered praise from enthusiasts for their exceptional performance, adept handling, and distinctive driving experiences.

RB25DE attached to a transmission sitting on wood in concrete garage
A RB25DE pulled with the transmission ready to be transplanted into another vehicle.
Perhaps another Skyline chassis?
Source: JDM of San Diego

Variations of the RB25 Generation from Nissan

RB25DE inside of an R33 Skyline
RB25DET inline six Engine paired with a 5-speed Manual transmission—1994 Nissan Skyline R33 GTS
Source: Bring-A-Trailer

RB25DE: a twin-cam, non-turbo configuration coupled with a 10:1 compression ratio. Such an arrangement yields a power range of 180–200 hp (134–149 kW; 182–203 PS) at 6000 rpm, with torque output at 255 N⋅m (188 lb⋅ft; 26.0 kg⋅m) at 4000 rpm.

RB25DET: a turbocharged RB25DET via a T3 Turbo and operates with an 8.5:1 compression ratio. This configuration yields an impressive power output ranging between 245–250 hp and 235 lb-ft of torque.

blue rectangle inside of the hood with tubes and other engine parts around it
Check out this Serial No. Badge from Nissan Motor Co.
5 lines down: RB25DET Designated engine code
Source: Bring-A-Trailer

RB25DE NEO: Characterized by its twin-cam, non-turbo architecture, the RB25DE NEO (Nissan Ecology Oriented Variable Valve Lift and Timing) engine features a 10:1 compression ratio. It delivers power of 197 hp (147 kW; 200 PS) at 6000 rpm, along with a torque of 255 N⋅m (188 lb⋅ft; 26.0 kg⋅m) at 4000 rpm, embodying refined power delivery suitable for a range of driving scenarios.

RB25DET NEO: Representing an innovative evolution of the twin-cam, turbocharged configuration characterized by a T3 Turbo and “45V3” with OP-6 Compressor. Operating at a 9:1 compression ratio achieving a commanding power output of 276 hp at 6400 rpm. However, its impressive Torque reaches 267 lb⋅ft at 3200 rpm.

Grey R33 Skyline on ground

One Response

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *