Nissan 350Z Engine

Specifications

The Nissan 350Z engine is equipped with Nissan’s renowned 3.5-liter VQ-series V6 engine, an all-aluminum, naturally aspirated DOHC powerplant featuring 24 valves and continuously variable valve timing for a strong balance of performance and reliability. In early models (2003–2006), the VQ35DE engine delivered between 287–300 horsepower and around 274 lb-ft (371 Nm) of torque, offering strong low- to mid-range pull and a smooth, linear powerband. Later 2007–2008 models received the upgraded VQ35HR, which introduced a dual-intake system, higher compression ratio, reinforced internals, and a raised 7,500 rpm redline, boosting output to 306 horsepower and 268 lb-ft (363 Nm) of torque. 

This engine is paired with either a 6-speed manual or 5-speed automatic transmission and driving the rear wheels, the engine is celebrated for its durability, distinctive exhaust note, and responsive character that defines the 350Z’s sporty driving experience.

Engine Variants

VQ35DE (2003–2004)

The original VQ35DE engine introduced the 350Z with 287 horsepower at 6,200 rpm and approximately 274 lb-ft of torque at 4,800 rpm. It features a 3,498 cc displacement, a bore and stroke of 95.5 mm x 81.4 mm, and a compression ratio of around 10.3:1. With a 6,500 rpm redline, the engine emphasized strong low-end and mid-range torque, making it responsive and easy to drive in everyday conditions. Its all-aluminum construction, DOHC 24-valve layout, and reputation for durability helped establish the 350Z as a well-balanced and reliable sports car. 

VQ35DE “Rev-Up” (2005–2006)

The Rev-Up version of the VQ35DE was engineered to improve high-RPM performance, increasing output to roughly 300 horsepower at 6,400 rpm while maintaining similar torque figures. It retained the same 3.5-liter displacement and bore/stroke dimensions but featured a higher compression ratio of approximately 10.6:1 and revised intake and exhaust cam timing. The redline was raised to around 7,000 rpm, allowing the engine to pull harder at the top end. These changes gave the 350Z a more aggressive, performance-focused character, particularly when paired with the 6-speed manual transmission.

VQ35HR (2007–2008)

The VQ35HR was the most advanced and extensively reworked version of the 350Z’s engine, producing up to 306 horsepower at 6,800 rpm and about 268 lb-ft of torque at 4,800 rpm. While retaining the 3,498 cc displacement, it featured a higher 10.6:1 compression ratio, reinforced internals, and a redesigned block with a closed-deck structure. The addition of a dual intake system improved airflow and throttle response, and the redline was increased to 7,500 rpm. The engine was also mounted lower and further back in the chassis, improving weight distribution and handling. Overall, the VQ35HR delivered smoother power delivery, better efficiency, and the most refined high-revving performance of any factory-equipped Nissan 350Z engine.   

Frequently Asked Questions