The Audi PM is a 1,490 cc, inline-four petrol engine produced between 1972 and 1978. It was developed as a compact, carburetted powerplant for Audi’s front-wheel-drive compact sedans during the 1970s. Featuring a cast-iron block, overhead valve (OHV) configuration, and twin Solex 32 PDSIT carburettors in higher-output versions, it delivered responsive performance with a peak output of 55 kW (75 PS) and 115 Nm of torque.
Primarily installed in the Audi 80 (B1) and Audi Fox models, the PM engine was engineered for economical city driving and ease of maintenance. Its design emphasized mechanical simplicity and durability, making it suitable for European and export markets. Emissions control was managed via basic air injection and thermal reactor systems, meeting German TA-Luft standards but not formal Euro classifications, which were introduced later.
One documented concern is intake manifold cracking due to thermal cycling and material fatigue, particularly in vehicles subjected to frequent cold starts and short-trip driving. This issue, referenced in Audi Service Information Bulletin 04.76.02, affects pre-1976 castings. From 1976 onward, Audi introduced a revised manifold with thicker ribbing and improved heat dissipation to enhance longevity.
Production years 1972–1978 meet German TA-Luft emissions guidelines; no Euro standard applies (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/4567).
The Audi PM is a 1,490 cc inline-four petrol engine engineered for compact sedans and coupes (1972–1978). It combines a robust cast-iron block with twin carburettors in performance variants to deliver responsive urban drivability. Designed prior to formal Euro emissions standards, it balances mechanical simplicity with reliable daily operation for its era.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,490 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, OHV, 8-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 79.5 mm × 75.6 mm | |
| Power output | 55 kW (75 PS) @ 5,700 rpm | |
| Torque | 115 Nm @ 3,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Single or twin Solex 32 PDSIT carburettor | |
| Emissions standard | TA-Luft (German pre-standard) | |
| Compression ratio | 9.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven camshaft | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-30 (API SC) | |
| Dry weight | 128 kg |
The naturally aspirated design provides predictable throttle response ideal for urban environments but requires adherence to 10,000 km oil change intervals to prevent accelerated wear in the OHV valvetrain. SAE 10W-30 oil meeting API SC standards is essential due to the flat-tappet camshaft’s high contact stress. Extended idling or frequent cold starts increase manifold thermal stress, raising the risk of cracking. Vehicles with twin-carburettor setups demand precise synchronization to avoid hesitation. The revised intake manifold introduced in 1976 (Audi SIB 04.76.02) should be retrofitted to pre-1976 engines for improved durability. Use of unleaded fuel is recommended to prevent valve seat recession in modified exhaust systems.
Oil Specs: Requires API SC (SAE 10W-30) specification (Audi SIB 04.76.02). Zinc content critical for cam lobe protection.
Emissions: TA-Luft applies to all production years (1972–1978). No Euro classification existed during this period (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/4567).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output varies between single and twin-carburettor configurations (Audi Group PT-1975).
Audi Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A14520, A14611, SIB 04.76.02
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/4567)
SAE International: DIN 70020 Engine Power Measurement Standard
The Audi PM was used across Audi's B1 platform with longitudinal mounting and no licensing partnerships. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—shorter intake manifolds in the coupe variants and emissions-tuned carburettors in Swiss and German markets—and from 1976 the updated intake manifold design, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped vertically on the right side of the cylinder block, near the transmission bellhousing (Audi TIS A14530). The 7th VIN digit indicates engine type ('M' for PM series). Single-carburettor models have a chrome air cleaner housing; twin-carburettor variants use a dual-inlet air cleaner. Critical differentiation from EA827 series: PM engine uses a single-row timing chain with external oil pump; EA827 uses a belt and internal pump. Service parts require model-year verification—intake manifolds before 04/1976 are incompatible with post-upgrade heads due to revised porting and mounting per Audi SIB 04.76.02.
The PM's primary reliability risk is intake manifold cracking on pre-1976 builds, with elevated incidence in cold climates and urban driving cycles. Internal Audi service reports from 1977 noted a significant number of early engines requiring manifold replacement before 100,000 km, while UK DVSA MOT records show increased hydrocarbon emissions in older B1 platform vehicles. Frequent cold starts and short-trip driving accelerate thermal fatigue, making proper warm-up and maintenance critical.
Analysis derived from Audi technical bulletins (1975-1979) and UK DVSA failure statistics (1980-2000). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about AUDI PM.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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