Nissan RB Engine - RB30

Four models of 3.0 L RB30 were produced from 1985 - 1991:

• RB30S - carburetted single-cam
• RB30E VL Commodore - fuel-injected single-cam (114 kW at 5,200 rpm, 247 N·m (25.2 kgf·m) at 3,600 rpm)
• RB30E R31 Skyline - fuel-injected single-cam (117 kW at 5,200 rpm, 252 N·m (25.2 kgf·m) at 3,600 rpm)
• RB30ET VL Commodore - fuel-injected single-cam turbo (150 kW at 5,600 rpm, 296 N·m at 3,200 rpm)

This motor was produced for use in the Skylines, Patrols and rights bought by Holden because the Holden 202 (3.3 L) powering the Holden Commodore could no longer satisfy tightening emissions requirements, and with all new cars required to run on unleaded petrol by 1986 a quick replacement was needed. Nissan Motor Co. sold the RB30E to Holden for the VL Commodore. Because the radiator is fitted lower in relation to the engine in the VL, there is an increased likelihood of air locks forming in the (alloy) cylinder head, causing this to overheat and warp. This was less likely in the R31 Skyline as the radiator is mounted higher. The engine proved to be very reliable apart from this issue. The RB30S was found in some Middle Eastern R31 Skylines and in some Nissan Patrols. The RB30E was found in R31 Skylines and VL Commodores in Australia as well as in South African R31 Skylines (with 126 kW at 5,000 rpm and 260 Nm at 3,500 rpm)

The turbocharged RB30ET (producing 150 kW) was found only in the VL Commodore (available in all models) and consisted of a lower compression RB30E bottom end, more powerful oil pump, T3 Garrett turbocharger, 250 cc injectors and a different intake manifold. The motor itself is still popular today (albeit in highly modified form) on the Australian Drag Racing circuit.

Nissan Special Vehicles Division Australia produced two limited models of R31 Skylines, the GTS1 and GTS2. These contained slightly more powerful RB30E engines, containing longer opening duration cams and better flowing exhausts.

• GTS1 RB30E - injected single-cam (130 kW at 5,500 rpm, 255 Nm (26.0 kgf·m) at 3,500 rpm) - special cam profile, special exhaust
• GTS2 RB30E - injected single-cam (140 kW at 5,600 rpm, 270 N·m (27.5 kgf·m) at 4,400 rpm) - special cam profile, special exhaust, piggy back computer, valve porting