Where legendary JDM engines are concerned, there is one name that springs to mind straight away and that is the SR20DET Nissan engine. The SR20DET engine is famous for its turbo power, solid build quality, and its ability to be used on the street or in racing vehicles. SR20DET is a tuner and car enthusiast favorite engine. Regardless of whether you need to replace your struggling motor, upgrade your car, or build a project vehicle with a turbocharged setup, buying an older used Nissan SR20DET engine is one of the wiser things you can do. Used Nissan SR20DET Engine

And the best part – you don’t need to break your bank on a brand-new motor. We’ve employed tried-and-true SR20DET engines that are cheap, reliable, and thoroughly tested, so you get to experience the mythical Nissan turbo power without breaking the bank. Used Nissan SR20DET Engine

In this in-depth review, we will discuss everything there is to tell about the Nissan SR20DET engine, from its specifications, history, performance, benefits of buying it used, compatibility, to why you have to buy one from us for your project. Used Nissan SR20DET Engine

A Quick Introduction to the Nissan SR20DET

The SR20DET is the 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four, DOHC engine. It is a member of Nissan’s famous SR family of engines, built in the late 1980s and early 2000s. While the majority of naturally aspirated SR20DE engines were mass-produced, the “T” in SR20DET stands for turbocharged – and that’s where the magic begins, giving this car legendary status. Used Nissan SR20DET Engine

Installed in mass-market Nissan performance cars like the Silvia, 180SX, Pulsar GTI-R, and Bluebird, this engine was the epitome of the 1990s and early 2000s JDM scene. With its tuner-friendly design, quality construction, and capacity to handle immense power with the right modifications, it’s little wonder that overseas tuner forums are still searching for used SR20DET engines to this day. Used Nissan SR20DET Engine

Nissan SR20DET Engine Specifications

Before you even consider buying a used Nissan SR20DET engine, let’s take a close examination of its specifications:

• Engine Code: SR20DET
• Configuration: Inline 4-cylinder, DOHC, turbocharged
• Displacement: 2.0L (1998 cc)
• Bore x Stroke: 86 mm × 86 mm (square engine design for balance)
• Compression Ratio:
  • Redtop (old version): ~8.5:1
  • Blacktop: ~8.5–9.0:1 (varies by version)
• Turbocharger: Garrett T25 (early), Garrett T28 (later)
• Fuel System: Multi-point fuel injection
• Power Output: 205–250 hp (depending on version and market)
• Torque: ~203–280 Nm
• Redline: ~7,000 RPM
• Valvetrain: 16 valves (4 per cylinder, DOHC)
• Weight: ~150–160 kg (lightweight for class)
• Production Years: 1989–2002

The different versions of the SR20DET (Redtop, Blacktop, and GTI-R version) all have slightly different outputs and specifications but are all meant to be turbo power. Used Nissan SR20DET Engine

Why the Nissan SR20DET Is So Popular

The SR20DET is not just another Nissan engine – it’s a mythical force of turbocharged 1990s power. Here’s why project car builders, tuners, and enthusiasts keep clamoring after it:

• Turbocharged Power – Naturally aspirated or otherwise, the SR20DET has an enormous amount of grunt in a 2.0L four-cylinder. It can quite happily produce 300+ horsepower with simple bolt-ons and tuning.
• Strong Bottom End – It is robust and can handle lots of boost with the help of minor assistance from support mods.
• Aftermarket Support – As it was a well-liked engine, the SR20DET has tremendous aftermarkets for performance parts, from upgraded turbos to forged pistons.
• JDM Legend – The SR20DET was the staple for drift, street racing, and time attack tuning. Its ubiquity in Silvia and 180SX made it legendary.
• Swap-Friendly – The engine is light, compact, and will slide right into most Nissan chassis, hence its popularity for swaps. Used Nissan SR20DET Engine

Versions of the SR20DET

There are a number of different versions of the SR20DET, and one might be better suited to your project than the other. Used Nissan SR20DET Engine

1. SR20DET Redtop (1989–1994)

• In Nissan Silvia S13 and 180SX.
• Red valve cover, therefore the name.
• Has Garrett T25 turbo.
• Power: Around 205–215 hp.

2. SR20DET Blacktop (1994–1998)

• Used in late S13, S14 Silvia and 180SX vehicles.
• Upgrade turbo configuration with Garrett T28.
• Sported internals on certain models.
• Power: Around 220–250 hp depending on the vehicle.

3. SR20DET GTI-R (1990–1994)

• Used in Nissan Pulsar GTI-R hot hatchback.
• Special intake manifold and sported internals.
• Power: Around 227–250 hp stock.

4. SR20DET Late Blacktop (S15, 1999–2002)

• Used in Silvia S15 Spec-R.
• Ball-bearing Garrett T28 turbo.
• VVT (Variable Valve Timing) on intake camshaft.
• Power: Around 250 hp stock.

Whichever one you decide to use, a secondhand SR20DET engine is the ideal base for a project build.

Advantages of a Secondhand SR20DET Engine

Purchasing a brand-new engine isn’t always feasible – it’s costly and usually not required. The reasons why purchasing a secondhand Nissan SR20DET engine is the best solution are as follows:

• Cost Savings – A second-hand SR20DET engine is much cheaper than a brand new one, allowing more of your budget to be used for tweaks and upgrades.
• Availability – Now that production ceased in the early 2000s, the best way possible to get one is second-hand.
• Project Ready – Second-hand engines are the perfect answer for swap jobs, rebuild projects, and tuning projects.
• Proven Reliability – These motors were made to last, and a well-maintained used engine can easily outlast years.

And since we specialize in selling used Nissan engines, we have our SR20DET in stock tested, inspected, and ready to be installed. Used Nissan SR20DET Engine

Applications of the Nissan SR20DET

SR20DET was used in a wide variety of Nissan cars. Some of the most popular are:

• Nissan Silvia S13, S14, S15
• Nissan 180SX
• Nissan Pulsar GTI-R
• Nissan Bluebird
• Nissan Avenir

It makes it very sought after as a drop-in replacement engine and an engine swap into other cars.

Why Choose Us for Your Used Nissan SR20DET Engine?

We understand that buying a used engine is an investment. That is why when you buy from us, you’re not just buying an engine—you’re buying confidence, reliability, and value.

✅ Inspected and Tested Engines – Our used SR20DET engines are inspected to ensure they work.
✅ Affordable Pricing – We provide engines at prices that are affordable, making your project more economical.
✅ Great Option – From Redtop to Blacktop to GTI-R models, we provide numerous versions of the SR20DET.
✅ Customer Support – We have a customer support team you can consult when choosing the ideal engine for your car or project.
✅ Global Shipping – We ship motors safely to customers across the globe.

When you buy a used Nissan SR20DET motor from us, you’re not just buying a motor—you’re buying turbocharged power for your project. Used Nissan SR20DET Engine

SR20DET Engine Swap Ideas

If you’re planning a project car, here are some popular swap options with the SR20DET:

• Nissan 240SX (USDM counterpart of Silvia) – The most popular swap.
• Datsun 510 / 240Z / 280Z – Classic cars reborn with turbo power.
• Nissan Sentra & Sunny – Compact cars transformed into turbo beasts.
• Toyota AE86 – A drift legend paired with Nissan turbo power.
• Kit Cars & Custom Builds – The compact design makes it versatile.

No matter whether you are planning to build a drift car, street car, or race monster, SR20DET is an excellent used turbo engine to buy.

Maintenance Tips of Used SR20DET Engine

Maintenance processes ensure longevity and functionality at the point of buying and installing a used engine. Here are some tips:

• Change Fluids Immediately – Drain the transmission, oil, and coolant fluids.
• Inspect Turbo – Look for shaft play and oil leaks.
• Upgrade Cooling System – Turbo engines get hot, so a good radiator and intercooler are necessary.
• Replace Belts and Hoses – Pre-emptive replacement avoids breakdowns.
• Use Quality Oil – Good oil is required for performance turbo engines.

Regular tune-ups will keep your used SR20DET engine purring like new for years to come. Used Nissan SR20DET Engine

Final Thoughts – Turbo Power for Your Project

The SR20DET engine by Nissan has become a legend as one of the all-time greatest ever JDM turbo engines. Inexpensive to purchase, powerful, tough, and notoriously tuneable, it is the perfect choice for anyone willing to retro-fit their car with turbo power.

And if you’re in the process of shopping for one, don’t worry. We’ve used Nissan SR20DET engines available at competitive prices and well tested to give you maximum reliability. Whether you are replacing your old worn-out engine or starting a new build, a used SR20DET from us gives you turbocharged power without needing to splurge.

📞 Call us now and buy your second-hand Nissan SR20DET engine and turn your project into reality!