The Nissan S12 chassis was available with a total of 8 different engine options across the CA, FJ and VG engine series. Available engine options were market and model dependent and in some cases restricted due to regional emissions regulations. The S12 was offered with a diverse range of powerplants, including naturally aspirated and turbocharged four-cylinders, as well as a V6 option, the first and only time a 6 cylinder engine was fitted to a Nissan S-Chassis.

Each of these engines played a role in shaping the S12’s performance and appeal across different regions, as well as being pivotal to the S12 in various motorsport theatres.

Market Availability

Base model S12's were offered with the CA18S engine, a 1.8-liter, single overhead cam (SOHC) inline-four from Nissan’s CA series. This naturally aspirated engine delivered fuel via a single carburettor and produced around 100 horsepower. While not the most powerful option available for the S12, the CA18S was known for its reliability and smooth operation. It served as an entry-level engine, offering decent performance and fuel economy for daily driving.

The Nissan S12 was also available with the CA18E engine, a 1.8-liter, single overhead cam (SOHC) inline-four featuring Nissan's EGI electronic fuel injection. As a step up from the carbureted CA18S, the CA18E produced around 115 horsepower, offering improved performance and efficiency. Known for its durability and smooth power delivery, this engine provided a balanced mix of reliability and drivability. While it lacked the turbocharging of the CA18ET or the dual overhead cams of the CA18DET, the CA18E remained a solid choice for those seeking a dependable and moderately powerful engine in the S12 chassis.

The Australian and North American Market Nissan S12's were available with the CA20E engine, a 2.0-liter, single overhead cam (SOHC) inline-four with electronic fuel injection (EFI) and 2 spark plugs per cylinder. Producing around 100 horsepower, it was designed for reliability and fuel efficiency rather than high performance. This engine was not available in Japanese Market cars.