The Audi AVF is a 2,771 cc, V6 petrol engine produced between 1991 and 1995. It features a 30-valve configuration with five valves per cylinder, DOHC layout, and sequential multi-point fuel injection (MOTRONIC M2.8.1). This engine delivers 132 kW (180 PS) at 5,800 rpm and 255 Nm of torque at 4,500 rpm, providing smooth high-RPM performance ideal for grand touring applications.
Fitted primarily to the Audi 100 (C3) and Audi 200 (C3) models, including the 100 2.8 E and 200 2.8 E variants, the AVF was engineered for refined highway cruising and balanced drivability. Emissions compliance was achieved through a three-way catalytic converter and closed-loop lambda control, meeting Euro 1 standards across its production run.
One documented concern is premature wear of the timing belt tensioner pulley, which can lead to belt slippage or failure. This issue, referenced in Audi Service Information Bulletin 07 10 93, is attributed to inadequate lubrication in early tensioner designs. In 1993, Audi issued a revised tensioner assembly (Part No. 078 109 237B) to improve long-term reliability across the V6 engine family.
Production years 1991–1995 meet Euro 1 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Audi AVF is a 2,771 cc V6 petrol engine engineered for executive sedans and coupes (1991–1995). It combines a 30-valve DOHC architecture with sequential fuel injection to deliver linear power delivery and smooth high-RPM operation. Designed to meet Euro 1 emissions standards, it balances performance with drivability for premium touring applications.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,771 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | V6, DOHC, 30-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 84.5 mm × 82.0 mm | |
| Power output | 132 kW (180 PS) @ 5,800 rpm | |
| Torque | 255 Nm @ 4,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Sequential multi-point injection (MOTRONIC M2.8.1) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 1 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.3:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Timing belt (interval: 90,000 km) | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-40, API SH/CD | |
| Dry weight | 178 kg |
The 30-valve V6 provides smooth, high-RPM power ideal for highway cruising but requires strict adherence to 90,000 km timing belt service intervals to prevent catastrophic interference failure. SAE 10W-40 oil meeting API SH/CD specs is essential for camshaft and lifter protection. Extended idling or short trips may accelerate carbon buildup on intake valves due to lack of direct injection. The MOTRONIC M2.8.1 system requires OEM-level diagnostics for adaptation resets after component replacement. Post-1993 models benefit from the revised tensioner (Part No. 078 109 237B); pre-1993 units should be retrofitted per Audi SIB 07 10 93. Catalytic converter longevity depends on fuel quality and mixture calibration.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 10W-40, API SH/CD specification (Audi SIB 07 10 93). Not compatible with modern low-SAPS oils.
Emissions: Euro 1 certification applies to all models (1991–1995) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output consistent across fuel grades (RON 95) (Audi TIS Doc. A31275).
Audi Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A31275, A31501, SIB 07 10 93
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
DIN 70020 Engine Power Measurement Standard
The Audi AVF was used across Audi's C3 platform with longitudinal mounting and shared architecture with Volkswagen Group V6 units. This engine received platform-specific calibrations-fuel mapping in the 100 and transmission tuning in the 200-and from 1993 received a timing tensioner update (Part No. 078 109 237B), creating service part interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front-facing side of the cylinder block, near the exhaust manifold (Audi TIS A31275). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('G' for 2.8L V6). Pre-1993 models use the original tensioner (078 109 237); post-1993 units use revised part (078 109 237B). Critical differentiation from 12-valve V6: AVF has five valves per cylinder and 30-degree V-angle; 12-valve units have two intake and one exhaust valve. Service parts require production date verification—timing kits for pre-1993 engines are not compatible with updated tensioner design (Audi SIB 07 10 93).
The AVF's primary reliability risk is timing belt system failure, with elevated incidence in vehicles with deferred maintenance. Internal Audi service data from 1994 indicated a significant share of pre-1993 engines suffering belt slippage before 90,000 km, while UK DVSA records show interference damage as a leading cause of engine replacement in C3 platform vehicles. Infrequent oil changes and short-trip driving increase cam and lifter wear, making adherence to service intervals critical.
Analysis derived from Audi technical bulletins (1991-1995) and UK DVSA failure statistics (1995-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about AUDI AVF.
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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