Mapmakers Technology Reference | Editorial preview, not published
Nissan RB26DETT
Nissan’s 2.6-liter, twin-turbocharged straight-six engine developed for the R32 Skyline GT-R and renowned for its competition heritage and modification potential.
Manufacturer: Nissan
Engine designation: RB26DETT
Factory displacement: 2,568 cm³
Cylinder layout: Inline six
Valve train: Dual overhead camshafts, four valves per cylinder
Forced induction: Twin turbochargers
Original published output: 206 kW (280 PS) at 6,800 rpm
Original published torque: 353 N·m at 4,400 rpm
Design and identity
The RB26DETT is a purpose-developed performance engine from Nissan’s RB family. The engine combines a six-cylinder in-line layout, twin overhead camshafts, 24 valves and twin turbochargers. It was introduced with the revived Skyline GT-R in 1989.
Performance architecture
The inline-six layout provides a compact, longitudinally mounted engine package appropriate to the R32 GT-R platform. Turbocharging increases the mass of air available for combustion; engine response and power delivery depend on boost control, exhaust flow, engine speed and calibration.
Factory specification
Nissan’s heritage record for a 1989 road-going BNR32 GT-R lists 2,568 cm³ displacement, 206 kW (280 PS) at 6,800 rpm and 353 N·m at 4,400 rpm. These values describe the original production specification, not every rebuilt, competition-prepared or modified RB26.
Competition development
The RB26DETT also powered racing GT-Rs. Nissan’s own heritage examples document substantially higher outputs for competition configurations. Racing figures are not appropriate proxies for an unspecified street engine.
Maintenance and modification
Forced-induction plumbing, cooling, lubrication, ignition, fuel delivery and turbocharger condition all matter to reliability under increased load. “Modified RB26” does not establish a particular turbo set, displacement, boost pressure, ECU calibration or horsepower figure.
Model boundaries
This article covers the engine model. The Nissan Skyline GT-R (R32) is a separate complete-vehicle topic, incorporating chassis, drivetrain, suspension and body systems. The engine may be discussed independently of the car in which it is installed.
Reference basis
- Nissan Heritage Collection, Skyline GT-R (1989: BNR32)
- Nissan Heritage Collection, Skyline GT-R racing examples
- Mapmakers text identifies a modified RB26 but does not specify its mechanical changes