The Audi 8910 is a 1,767 cc, inline-four petrol engine produced between 1972 and 1978. It was developed as a reliable, naturally aspirated powerplant for Audi's compact executive sedans and coupes, featuring a carburetted fuel delivery system and overhead camshaft (SOHC) design. In standard tune it delivered 55 kW (75 PS), with higher-output variants reaching up to 66 kW (90 PS), providing balanced performance for everyday driving and highway cruising.
Fitted to models such as the Audi 80 B1 and Audi Fox, the 8910 engine was engineered for mechanical simplicity and long service life under regular maintenance. Emissions control relied on basic air injection and thermal reactor systems where equipped, allowing compliance with pre-Euro emissions baselines common in early 1970s European markets. Cooling and lubrication systems were conventional, with minimal electronic integration.
One documented reliability concern is cylinder head cracking under prolonged high-load operation or coolant neglect, highlighted in Audi Technical Service Bulletin 1028.03. This issue stems from uneven thermal expansion due to inconsistent head bolt torque or use of non-specified coolant mixtures. Later production units incorporated improved casting materials and revised cooling jacket designs to enhance durability.
Production years 1972–1978 meet pre-Euro standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5680).
The Audi 8910 is a 1,767 cc inline-four petrol engine engineered for compact sedans and coupes (1972–1978). It utilises a carburetted SOHC layout to deliver predictable, low-stress operation with mechanical reliability. Designed for pre-Euro emissions frameworks, it prioritises ease of service and longevity over performance output.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,767 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, SOHC, 8-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 82.0 mm × 84.0 mm | |
| Power output | 55–66 kW (75–90 PS) @ 5,200 rpm | |
| Torque | 128–138 Nm @ 3,200 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Solex 32 PDSIT carburettor | |
| Emissions standard | Pre-Euro (national standards) | |
| Compression ratio | 8.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not equipped | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven camshaft | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-30 (API SE or equivalent) | |
| Dry weight | 135 kg |
The carburetted SOHC design ensures predictable, low-stress operation ideal for classic car use but requires strict adherence to coolant replacement intervals to prevent cylinder head cracking. SAE 10W-30 oil meeting API SE specifications is essential for bearing and camshaft longevity. Cold-start idling should be limited to 60 seconds to minimise bore polishing. The Solex carburettor demands clean fuel free of ethanol to prevent diaphragm degradation. Head integrity depends on correct bolt torque sequences per Audi TIS A12750. Vehicles used in stop-start traffic should have cooling system inspections every 24 months. Ignition timing and idle mixture must be adjusted annually to maintain drivability.
Oil Specs: Requires API SE-grade 10W-30 (Audi Service Bulletin 1028.03). Supersedes earlier mineral oil specifications.
Emissions: All units comply with national pre-Euro standards (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5680). No Euro 1-certified variants produced.
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output varies by model year and carburettor tune (Audi TIS Doc. A12810).
Audi Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A12750, A12810, 1028.03
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5680)
The Audi 8910 was used across Audi's B1 platform with longitudinal mounting and no licensed external applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced engine mounts in the Audi Fox and revised intake manifolds in later 80 B1 builds-creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped vertically on the right-side engine block near the starter motor (Audi TIS A12750). The 7th VIN digit indicates engine family ('G' for 8910 series). Pre-1975 models have ribbed oil pans with flat valve covers; post-1976 units use smooth pans with ribbed covers. Critical differentiation from 8909 engine: Original 8910 has Solex 32 PDSIT carburettor with manual choke, while 8909 uses Pierburg 1B2 with automatic choke. Service parts require production date verification - cylinder head bolts for engines before 03/1975 are shorter and non-interchangeable with later 8910 units (Audi Service Bulletin 1028.03).
The 8910's primary reliability risk is cylinder head cracking on high-mileage units, with elevated incidence in overheated or poorly maintained engines. Internal Audi service reports from 1976 indicated a significant number of pre-1975 builds required head replacement before 130,000 km, while VCA records show older petrol engines contribute disproportionately to emissions-related MOT failures due to carburettor imbalance. Extended oil intervals and low coolant levels increase thermal stress, making fluid maintenance and inspection intervals critical.
Analysis derived from Audi technical bulletins (1972-1978) and UK DVSA failure statistics (1980-2005). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about AUDI 8910.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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