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

Power Output
Measured in Metric Horsepower (Ps)
Figures sourced from engine data and quoted output figures as seen in Nissan S12 brochures.

Base model Japanese 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.

The CA18ET is a turbocharged 1.8-liter inline-four engine produced by Nissan and made its first appearance in the S12 chassis. It became a new addition to the CA engine family, the CA18ET features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) and electronic fuel injection. It was fitted to models in the Japanese Market Silvia and Gazelle model ranges and also made its way into the 200SX in North America.

The CA18DET is a 1.8-liter, DOHC, turbocharged inline-four engine from Nissan's CA series. In the Japanese-market Nissan S12 Silvia, the CA18DET was offered as a factory option in the later production years of the MKII. Unlike its later applications, the S12 version of the CA18DET was non-intercooled and produced around 145 horsepower. It featured dual overhead camshafts, electronic fuel injection, and a turbocharger, offering a significant performance step up from earlier SOHC engines in the S12 lineup.

The Nissan FJ20ET is a turbocharged 2.0-litre inline-four engine from Nissan’s FJ-series, notable for its robust design and performance capabilities. This engine helped position the S12 as a potent sports coupe, delivering 190hp and featuring advanced technologies for its time, such as electronic fuel injection and a DOHC 16-valve head. The FJ20ET's inclusion in the S12 Silvia contributed to the car’s reputation as a tunable and durable platform.