The Audi KK is a 1,781 cc, inline-four petrol engine produced between 1980 and 1987. It was designed as a durable, carburetted powerplant for Audi's compact and mid-size vehicles of the early 1980s. Featuring a cast-iron block, overhead valve (OHV) configuration, and Bosch L-Jetronic fuel injection in later variants, it delivered reliable performance with peak outputs of 66 kW (90 PS) and 137 Nm of torque.
Fitted primarily to the Audi 80 B2 and Audi 90 models, the KK engine was engineered for economical daily driving and long service life. Its design prioritized simplicity and ease of maintenance, making it a staple in Audi’s European and export markets. Emissions compliance was managed through early catalytic converter integration and air injection systems, enabling Euro 1 precursor standards in select 1986–1987 builds.
One documented concern is premature camshaft lobe wear, particularly in vehicles subjected to extended oil change intervals. This issue, referenced in Audi Service Information Bulletin 01.87.03, is attributed to marginal lubrication flow in the OHV valvetrain. From 1985 onward, Audi introduced an updated oil gallery design and stellite-faced camshafts to improve durability.
Production years 1980–1985 meet German TA-Luft pre-standard; 1986–1987 models comply with Euro 1 precursor regulations (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Audi KK is a 1,781 cc inline-four petrol engine engineered for compact sedans and coupes (1980–1987). It combines a robust cast-iron block with Bosch L-Jetronic fuel injection in later models to deliver smooth, predictable performance. Designed to meet early emissions standards, it balances reliability with modest fuel economy for its era.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,781 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, OHV, 8-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 81.0 mm × 86.4 mm | |
| Power output | 66 kW (90 PS) @ 5,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 137 Nm @ 3,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch L-Jetronic (EFI) or Solex carburettor | |
| Emissions standard | Precursor to Euro 1 (1986–1987) | |
| Compression ratio | 9.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven camshaft | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-40 (API SF/CC) | |
| Dry weight | 138 kg |
The naturally aspirated design provides linear throttle response ideal for city and highway cruising but requires strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals to prevent camshaft lobe wear. SAE 10W-40 oil meeting API SF/CC standards is essential due to the flat-tappet OHV valvetrain’s high contact stress. Extended idling or short-trip driving increases sludge formation, accelerating wear. Vehicles converted to catalytic exhaust systems post-1985 must use unleaded fuel to prevent converter poisoning. The Bosch L-Jetronic system demands clean fuel and periodic injector inspection to maintain drivability. Pre-1985 engines should be retrofitted with the improved oil gallery and camshaft per Audi SIB 01.87.03 for long-term reliability.
Oil Specs: Requires API SF/CC (SAE 10W-40) specification (Audi SIB 01.87.03). Zinc content critical for cam lobe protection.
Emissions: Precursor to Euro 1 applies to 1986–1987 models only (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678). Pre-1986 units comply with German TA-Luft guidelines.
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output varies slightly between carburetted and fuel-injected variants (Audi Group PT-1985).
Audi Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A18720, A18911, SIB 01.87.03
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
SAE International: DIN 70020 Engine Power Measurement Standard
The Audi KK was used across Audi's B2 platform with longitudinal mounting and no licensing partnerships. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake manifolds in the coupe variants and emissions-tuned ECUs in Swiss and German markets-and from 1985 the updated camshaft and oil gallery design, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front face of the cylinder block, near the timing cover (Audi TIS A18725). The 7th VIN digit indicates engine type ('K' for KK series). Carburetted models (pre-1983) have a chrome air cleaner housing; fuel-injected variants use a black plastic intake plenum. Critical differentiation from EA827 series: KK engine uses a single-row timing chain with external oil pump; EA827 uses a belt and internal pump. Service parts require model-year verification - camshafts before 08/1985 are incompatible with post-upgrade blocks due to revised oil feed design (Audi SIB 01.87.03).
The KK's primary reliability risk is camshaft lobe wear on pre-1985 builds, with elevated incidence in mixed urban/highway use. Internal Audi service reports from 1988 noted a significant number of pre-upgrade engines requiring cam replacement before 150,000 km, while UK DVSA MOT records show increased valve train noise in older B2 platform vehicles. Short-trip driving and delayed oil changes accelerate wear, making oil quality and interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Audi technical bulletins (1985-1989) and UK DVSA failure statistics (1990-2005). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about AUDI KK.
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
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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.
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