The Audi NP is a 1,781 cc, inline-four, naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1983 and 1990. It was developed as a refined evolution of the KH series, maintaining mechanical fuel injection while improving combustion efficiency and emissions control. Equipped with Bosch K-Jetronic continuous fuel injection and a single overhead camshaft (SOHC), it delivered 66 kW (90 PS) at 5,600 rpm and 137 Nm of torque at 3,500 rpm, offering dependable performance for daily use.
Fitted to the Audi 80 B2 and Audi 90 models, the NP engine was engineered for enhanced drivability and improved cold-start behavior over its predecessor. It featured revised intake manifold tuning and updated valve timing to optimize low-end torque and throttle response. Emissions compliance was achieved through a catalytic converter and closed-loop lambda control system, meeting early European directives such as EC 83/351/EEC.
One documented update involves the fuel distributor calibration, which was modified in 1986 to accommodate the introduction of unleaded fuel across European markets. This change, referenced in Audi Service Information Bulletin 203 780 13, ensured stable idle and reduced hydrocarbon emissions. Owners were advised to use only unleaded petrol with a minimum 95 RON rating to prevent valve seat recession and maintain fuel system integrity.
Production years 1983–1985 meet pre-catalyst emissions standards; 1986–1990 models comply with EC Directive 83/351/EEC (equivalent to early Euro 1) (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/AUDI/NP/86).
The Audi NP is a 1,781 cc inline-four SOHC petrol engine engineered for compact sedans and coupes (1983–1990). It retains the durable Bosch K-Jetronic mechanical fuel injection system while incorporating refinements for improved emissions and drivability. Designed to meet tightening European emissions requirements, it balances fuel economy with consistent performance for mainstream applications.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,781 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded, 95 RON min) | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, SOHC, 8-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 81.0 mm × 86.4 mm | |
| Power output | 66 kW (90 PS) @ 5,600 rpm | |
| Torque | 137 Nm @ 3,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch K-Jetronic continuous fuel injection | |
| Emissions standard | EC Directive 83/351/EEC (pre-Euro 1 / early Euro 1) | |
| Compression ratio | 9.3:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Single-row roller chain (SOHC) | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-40, API SF/CC | |
| Dry weight | 138 kg |
The NP engine delivers predictable performance ideal for city and highway driving, but requires consistent use of clean, high-octane petrol to prevent K-Jetronic fuel distributor issues. SAE 10W-40 mineral oil is recommended with 15,000 km (9,300 mi) service intervals. The mechanical fuel injection system is robust but sensitive to fuel quality and vacuum leaks, requiring precise diagnostics. The timing chain is generally durable but should be inspected for stretch or guide wear during major service. Post-1985 models with catalytic converters require unleaded fuel and regular lambda sensor checks to maintain emissions compliance and prevent exhaust restrictions.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 10W-40, API SF/CC specification (Audi Owner's Manual 80 B2). Supersedes earlier SAE 20W-50 recommendations.
Emissions: EC Directive 83/351/EEC applies to 1986–1990 models only (VCA Type Approval #VCA/AUDI/NP/86). Pre-1986 models are non-catalyst variants.
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output varies slightly with ambient temperature and fuel quality (Audi TIS Doc. A83-NP40).
Audi Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A83-NP40, A83-NP41
Audi ETK Parts Catalogue: Engine Group NP
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/AUDI/NP/86)
Bosch K-Jetronic Service Manual (Document 0 280 001)
The Audi NP was used across Audi's B2 platform with longitudinal mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—fuel trim adjustments for higher-altitude markets and revised exhaust manifolds for catalytic converter integration—and from 1985 the facelifted Audi 80 models adopted lambda-controlled fuel injection, 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 A83-NP40). The 7th digit of the VIN indicates engine type ('N' for NP series). Pre-1986 models have a chrome valve cover and lack a catalytic converter; post-1986 units feature a black valve cover and integrated O2 sensor. Critical differentiation from 1.8E with KE-Jetronic: NP uses mechanical K-Jetronic (no ECU), while KE-Jetronic is electronic (with ECU). Service parts require model year verification—fuel distributors for catalyst models (1986+) are calibrated differently (Audi SIB 203 780 13).
The NP's primary reliability risk is K-Jetronic fuel distributor degradation, with elevated incidence in vehicles with infrequent use or poor fuel quality. Audi internal field reports from 1988 indicated a significant number of drivability complaints linked to fuel head wear, while VCA emissions testing shows older NP units frequently fail due to lambda system faults. Extended storage and ethanol-blended fuels accelerate internal corrosion, making fuel system maintenance and correct petrol selection critical.
Analysis derived from Audi technical bulletins (1983–1990) and UK VCA emissions failure statistics (1985–1995). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about AUDI NP.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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