In North America, the 1985 Nissan 720 typically used a 2.0-liter inline-four gasoline engine; some export markets offered a 2.4-liter four and diesel variants.
The 1985 720 was sold in several regions with different powerplants to meet local regulations and fuel availability. Below is an overview of the principal engine options you might encounter for that year and guidance on identifying exactly which engine a particular truck has.
Engine options by market
Below are the typical engine configurations for the 1985 720, noting that availability varied by country, trim, and emission standards.
- 2.0-liter inline-four gasoline engine — the most common choice in North American 1985 720s, offering a balance of performance and efficiency for a compact pickup.
- 2.4-liter inline-four gasoline engine — offered in some export markets to provide more torque for hauling or heavier payloads.
- Diesel inline-four — available in select international markets, often favored for fuel economy and durability in truck use.
Engine options varied by year and region. To confirm the exact engine, check the emission label under the hood and the VIN with the factory codes for that model year.
How to identify the engine in your 1985 720
Finding the engine code stamp on the engine block and cross-referencing with Nissan's parts catalogs or a dealer's database will confirm which engine your truck has. VIN-specific docs can also reveal the intended engine and market variant.
Tips for verification
Common steps include locating the engine serial number on the block, matching to service manuals, and confirming with a Nissan dealer or registry for the specific market spec. If you have the VIN, a quote from a parts catalog or a service bulletin can reveal the engine code used for your truck.
Maintenance considerations for 1985 720 engines
Engines from this era require regular timing and fuel system maintenance. Depending on the engine, your 720 could have a carbureted or fuel-injected setup. Check the service manual for timing procedures, carburetor rebuild steps, and recommended spark plugs and oil grades.
Due to age, the cooling system, head gasket integrity, and water pumps require careful inspection, especially in climates with significant temperature swings. Parts compatibility can vary depending on the engine family, so use the correct parts for your engine variant.
Summary
In summary, the 1985 Nissan 720 offered several engine options depending on region: the most common 2.0-liter gasoline engine in North America, with a 2.4-liter gasoline option and diesel variants available in other markets. To know the exact engine in a specific truck, verify the engine code and VIN against Nissan's documentation.