VR38 Engine for Sale: Specifications, Features, and FAQs

vr38 engine for sale, The VR38 engine is a high-performance powerhouse that has earned a reputation for its exceptional power, efficiency, and reliability. This engine is most famously known for its use in the Nissan GT-R (R35), which has become a legend in the automotive world. If you’re looking to purchase a VR38 engine, whether for a project car, a rebuild, or a replacement, it’s important to understand the specifications, features, and frequently asked questions about the engine to make an informed purchase.

Specifications of the VR38 Engine

The VR38 engine is a 3.8-liter twin-turbocharged V6 engine that offers impressive performance figures. Below are the detailed specifications of this powerhouse:

Engine Type: 3.8L Twin-Turbo V6
Displacement: 3799cc (3.8 liters)
Configuration: V6, 60-degree angle
Fuel System: Multi-Point Fuel Injection
Turbochargers: Twin-Turbo (GT28R turbos for the base GT-R model)
Maximum Power: 480 hp @ 6,400 RPM (base model); higher output versions exceed 550 hp.
Torque: 430 lb-ft @ 3,200-5,200 RPM (base model)
Compression Ratio: 9.0:1
Valvetrain: DOHC, 24 Valves
Bore x Stroke: 95.5 mm x 88.4 mm
Cooling System: Water-cooled with a liquid-to-air intercooler system
Engine Management: ECU-controlled with an advanced fuel mapping system for high-performance tuning

The VR38 engine has been fine-tuned for track-ready performance while maintaining excellent street manners. This combination of power and durability makes it a popular choice among car enthusiasts who want to push the limits of performance.

Features of the VR38 Engine

Turbocharged Performance: The twin-turbocharged configuration gives the VR38 incredible low-end torque and high-revving power that enables rapid acceleration and top-end performance. It’s built to handle extreme forces with ease.
Strong Internal Components: The engine features a forged steel crankshaft, lightweight pistons, and reinforced rods, ensuring it can withstand high horsepower and boost pressures.
Cooling Technology: The advanced cooling system, including dual liquid-to-air intercoolers, ensures the engine stays cool under high loads, even in extreme performance environments like track racing.
Advanced ECU Tuning: The engine’s ECU (engine control unit) can be finely tuned for specific applications, allowing owners to customize performance, optimize fuel efficiency, or enhance power output.
Durability: With its strong engineering and high-quality construction, the VR38 is known for its ability to handle substantial tuning and modifications without sacrificing reliability.
Adaptable to Aftermarket Parts: Many performance shops offer upgrades, from turbochargers to exhaust systems, that can enhance the VR38’s already impressive performance.

Where to Find a VR38 Engine for Sale

If you’re looking for a VR38 engine for sale, there are several places you can check:

Online Marketplaces: Websites like eBay, Craigslist, or car enthusiast forums often list VR38 engines for sale, especially from owners who have swapped them into different cars or are parting out Nissan GT-Rs.
Performance Shops: Many shops that specialize in high-performance Japanese cars or motorsport build or sell VR38 engines. Some may offer engines that have been rebuilt, upgraded, or are in pristine condition.
Dealers and Manufacturers: Authorized Nissan dealerships, along with aftermarket suppliers, may sell new or rebuilt VR38 engines. These engines may come with warranties and certifications to ensure their quality.
Junkyards and Salvage Yards: Salvage yards are an excellent place to find used engines. While this may require more effort to inspect, it can often result in a cheaper engine purchase.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About the VR38 Engine

1. Can the VR38 engine be swapped into other cars?

Yes, the VR38 engine is commonly swapped into various performance cars, especially Nissan vehicles like the 350Z, 370Z, or custom builds. However, it’s a complex and costly swap due to the engine’s size and the need for custom parts such as mounts, wiring, and potentially a different transmission.

2. How much horsepower can the VR38 handle with modifications?

The VR38 is known to handle substantial power increases with proper tuning and modifications. With the right upgrades (such as larger turbochargers, stronger internals, and proper tuning), the VR38 can easily exceed 1,000 horsepower, and some modified engines have reached over 1,500 hp, especially in racing applications.

3. Are there different versions of the VR38 engine?

Yes, there are several versions of the VR38 engine, with varying horsepower and performance levels. For example, the standard Nissan GT-R VR38 produces around 480 hp, while the Nismo GT-R version pushes the limits to around 600 hp. These differences are typically due to changes in turbochargers, ECU mapping, and internals.

4. What are the common problems with the VR38 engine?

Common issues with the VR38 engine include oil starvation (especially on high-mileage engines), turbocharger failure if not properly maintained, and problems with the fuel injectors or fuel pumps at higher performance levels. Regular maintenance and proper tuning are essential for long-term durability.

5. How much does a VR38 engine cost?

The price of a VR38 engine can vary widely based on condition, whether it’s new, used, or rebuilt, and if it has been modified. On average, a used VR38 engine can range from $5,000 to $10,000, while a fully rebuilt or high-performance version can cost upwards of $15,000 to $20,000 or more.

6. Can the VR38 engine be used for motorsports?

Yes, the VR38 is highly regarded in motorsports, especially in time attack racing, drag racing, and drifting. Its combination of power, durability, and tunability makes it an excellent choice for competitive racing applications.

7. How can I improve the performance of a VR38 engine?

There are several ways to increase the performance of a VR38 engine:

Turbo upgrades: Larger turbos can increase airflow and boost, resulting in more power.
Fuel system upgrades: Higher-flow fuel injectors and pumps can support larger amounts of fuel for increased power.
Exhaust systems: A performance exhaust can reduce backpressure and increase the engine’s efficiency.
ECU tuning: A proper tune can optimize the air/fuel mixture and boost levels for more power and better engine response.

Conclusion

The VR38 engine is an exceptional powerhouse, offering high performance, durability, and tunability. Whether you are replacing an engine in your Nissan GT-R, planning a high-performance project, or tuning an existing VR38, this engine offers unmatched potential. Before purchasing, ensure you understand the condition of the engine, its specifications, and what modifications are needed for your specific build. The VR38’s reputation in both street and motorsport performance makes it a desirable engine for enthusiasts around the world.

vr38 engine for sale