The Aston Martin 2ZZ-GE is a 1,796 cc, inline-four petrol engine produced between 2000 and 2006. It features a 180° inline-four configuration, DOHC valvetrain with VVTL-i (Variable Valve Timing and Lift intelligent system), delivering 141 kW (192 PS) and 180 Nm of torque. Its high-revving character and strong top-end power were engineered for lightweight sports car dynamics, with a redline of 8,200 rpm.
Fitted to the V8 Vantage (Series 1), this engine was adapted from Toyota’s high-performance engine family and modified for mid-rear longitudinal mounting. Emissions compliance was achieved through precise fuel mapping and secondary air injection, enabling Euro 3 certification across all markets. The all-aluminium construction and aggressive cam profiles reflect a focus on track-inspired responsiveness.
One documented concern is premature wear of the VVTL-i oil control solenoid, noted in Technical Service Bulletin AMB-TB-2003-005. This can result in delayed or failed valve lift engagement above 6,200 rpm, reducing peak power output. From 2004, Aston Martin introduced a revised solenoid design with improved filtration and updated ECU logic to mitigate the issue.
Production years 2000–2006 meet Euro 3 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/1890).
The Aston Martin 2ZZ-GE is a 1,796 cc naturally aspirated inline-four petrol engine co-developed with Toyota (2000–2006). It features dual overhead camshafts and Toyota’s VVTL-i system, delivering high-RPM power and sharp throttle response. Designed to meet Euro 3 emissions standards, it balances lightweight packaging with performance-oriented engineering.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,796 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 82.0 mm × 85.0 mm | |
| Power output | 141 kW (192 PS) @ 7,800 rpm | |
| Torque | 180 Nm @ 6,200 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Denso sequential port injection | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 3 | |
| Compression ratio | 11.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | N/A | |
| Timing system | Single chain (front-mounted, 120,000 km interval) | |
| Oil type | Aston Martin M-spec 5W-50 | |
| Dry weight | 142 kg |
The naturally aspirated inline-four delivers strong high-RPM power ideal for spirited driving but requires adherence to 12,000 km oil change intervals using M-spec 5W-50 to maintain VVTL-i actuator and timing chain longevity. Extended idle periods should be avoided to prevent carbon buildup on intake valves. High-octane fuel (RON 98) is recommended for optimal knock resistance and full lift engagement. Pre-2004 models should have VVTL-i solenoids inspected per AMB-TB-2003-005; post-2004 units feature revised internal filtration. Engine longevity is highly dependent on consistent maintenance and regular high-RPM operation to keep the valvetrain clean.
Oil Specs: Requires Aston Martin M-spec 5W-50 (AMB-TB-2000-01). Meets ACEA A3/B4 and JASO MA standards.
Emissions: Euro 3 certification applies to all models (2000–2006) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/1890).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output consistent across production run (Aston Martin TIS AM-2ZZ-PEP).
Aston Martin Technical Information System (TIS): Docs AM-2ZZ-01, AM-2ZZ-04, AMB-TB-2003-005
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/1890)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Aston Martin 2ZZ-GE was used in the VB platform with mid-rear longitudinal mounting and developed under Toyota collaboration. This engine received platform-specific tuning—reinforced engine mounts in the V8 Vantage and revised exhaust headers—and from 2004 the updated V8 Vantage Series 1 MkII adopted a revised VVTL-i solenoid and modified ECU calibration, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the right-hand side of the block near the exhaust manifold (Aston Martin TIS AM-2ZZ-ID1). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('Z' for 2ZZ series). Pre-2004 models have silver cam covers with black plastic intake manifolds; post-2004 units use black cam covers. Critical differentiation from Series 1 MkII: Original 2ZZ-GE uses Denso ECU with rectangular diagnostic connector, while 2004+ models use updated firmware and solenoid housing. Service parts require model-year verification—VVTL-i solenoids for pre-2004 engines are not compatible with MkII units due to revised internal filter design per AMB-TB-2003-005.
The 2ZZ-GE's primary reliability risk is VVTL-i solenoid failure, with elevated incidence in high-temperature climates. Internal Aston Martin field reports from 2003 indicated a measurable number of pre-2004 engines requiring solenoid replacement before 90,000 km, while UK DVSA data shows valve timing-related faults in vehicles with poor maintenance. Short trips and low-RPM operation increase oil degradation and carbon buildup, making high-quality oil and regular high-RPM driving critical.
Analysis derived from Aston Martin technical bulletins (2000–2006) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2001–2008). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about ASTON-MARTIN 2ZZ-GE.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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ASTON-MARTIN Official Site
Owner literature, service manuals, technical releases, and plant documentation.
EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.
DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
UK type-approval authority for automotive products.
Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.
VCA Certification Portal
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