Nissan 370z Engine

Specifications

The Nissan 370Z engine is equipped with the VQ37VHR 3.7-liter naturally aspirated V6 engine, constructed with an all-aluminum block and cylinder heads for reduced weight and improved heat dissipation, and configured in a DOHC 24-valve layout. It features Nissan’s advanced VVEL (Variable Valve Event and Lift) system combined with CVTCS (Continuous Variable Valve Timing Control System) on both intake and exhaust cams, optimizing throttle response, efficiency, and high-rpm performance. The engine delivers around 332 horsepower at 7,000 rpm and 270 lb-ft of torque at 5,200 rpm, with a high 7,500 rpm redline, using a 95.5 mm bore, 86.0 mm stroke, and an 11.0:1 compression ratio.

Fuel is supplied via electronic multi-point fuel injection, running on premium unleaded gasoline, and cooling is handled by a liquid-cooled system with an engine oil capacity of approximately 5.2 quarts. Mounted in a front-midship configuration for improved weight distribution and handling balance, the VQ37VHR complies with modern emissions standards and is paired with either a 6-speed manual transmission with SynchroRev Match or a 7-speed automatic with manual shift mode.

Engine Variants

Standard VQ37VHR (332 HP)

The standard VQ37VHR is a 3.7-liter naturally aspirated DOHC V6 used in the base, Sport, and Touring Nissan 370Z models, featuring an all-aluminum block and heads, 24 valves, and Nissan’s VVEL and CVTCS variable valve timing systems. It produces approximately 332 horsepower at 7,000 rpm and 270 lb-ft of torque at 5,200 rpm, with a 7,500 rpm redline. The engine uses a 95.5 mm bore, 86.0 mm stroke, and an 11.0:1 compression ratio, delivering strong high-rpm performance and sharp throttle response. Power is sent through either a 6-speed manual transmission with SynchroRev Match or a 7-speed automatic, with the engine mounted in a front-midship layout for balanced handling. 

NISMO VQ37VHR (350 HP)

The NISMO-tuned VQ37VHR is an enhanced version of the 3.7-liter V6, exclusive to the Nissan 370Z NISMO, retaining the aluminum construction, DOHC 24-valve layout, and VVEL/CVTCS systems but benefiting from performance-focused revisions. Output is increased to approximately 350 horsepower at 7,400 rpm and 276 lb-ft of torque through a specifically tuned H-pipe exhaust system, revised muffler design, and optimized engine control mapping. The engine maintains its high-revving character and durability while offering improved airflow, sharper throttle response, and a more aggressive exhaust note, paired exclusively with a close-ratio 6-speed manual transmission.

International Variants (328–339 HP)

International versions of the VQ37VHR share the same fundamental 3.7-liter V6 architecture, including the aluminum block and heads, DOHC 24-valve design, and VVEL and CVTCS technologies, but are detuned or rated differently to meet regional emissions, fuel quality, and testing standards. Some markets, such as the Philippines, rate the engine at around 344 PS (approximately 339 horsepower), while certain European models have been listed at roughly 328 horsepower. Despite these variations in published output figures, the engines retain similar torque characteristics, high-rpm capability, and overall performance feel, ensuring consistent driving dynamics across global 370Z models.

Frequently Asked Questions