K8DE vs K8ZE (JDM K8)
 

Anyone have any clue what makes the JDM K8 more powerful?


USDM K8 - 135HP
JDM K8 - 144HP

Could be different emission standards, different fuel, different ECU/PCMs.

Yeah i've tried to factor in emissions but i'm curious as to if maybe they just used some better parts.

They may have different compression ratio's, different camshafts.

In my experience on Nissans its ECU/PCM's.

From what i've found online they supposedly have the same CR. But yeah that would make sense for the ECU/PCM to have a different tune to work with with their less restrictive exhaust. So disappointing how little support their is for this engine. I absolutely love it even thought it's not the most powerful.

Pistons
 

Usually what mazda motors had in the JDM version was Flat top pistons which gave a higher compression. and the cam lobes are usually different dimension and the ecu is tuned differently to run with those specific differences. the cam lobes make a huge difference. anyway, as with the KLZe it had these same changes from the USA KLDe. With more compression and more efficient valve timing and a proper tuned ecu for it is basically what gives that extra umph.:D