The Audi PV is a 1,491 cc, inline-four, naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1965 and 1972. It served as the base powerplant for Audi's compact sedans during the mid-to-late 1960s, featuring a cast-iron block, overhead valve (OHV) configuration, and a single Solex carburettor. Rated at 44 kW (60 PS), it delivered modest but reliable performance suitable for urban commuting and light highway use.
Fitted primarily to the Audi 60 and Audi 72 models, the PV engine was engineered for simplicity and ease of service in everyday driving conditions. Its design emphasized fuel economy and mechanical durability, making it well-suited for drivers seeking dependable transportation without high performance demands. Emissions control was minimal, consistent with pre-regulatory European standards of the era (Euro 0), though later production units incorporated positive crankcase ventilation (PCV) to reduce hydrocarbon emissions.
One documented service update involves the replacement of early-generation water pumps prone to seal failure under sustained load, as noted in Audi Service Information Bulletin 69-04-02. This issue, affecting vehicles operated in high-temperature climates, could lead to coolant loss and overheating. Later models from 1970 onward received an upgraded pump housing with improved sealing materials, enhancing cooling system reliability.
All production units meet Euro 0 standards; PCV-equipped variants from 1970–1972 comply with early German TA-Luft recommendations (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/4321).
The Audi PV is a 1,491 cc inline-four OHV petrol engine developed for compact sedans (1965–1972). It features a simple carburetted fuel system and robust cast-iron construction, prioritising mechanical reliability and ease of maintenance. Designed before formal European emissions regulations, it reflects the engineering priorities of its era: durability, serviceability, and economical operation.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,491 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded RON 91) | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, OHV, 8-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 80.0 mm × 74.2 mm | |
| Power output | 44 kW (60 PS) @ 5,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 108 Nm @ 2,800 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Single Solex 32 PAIA carburettor | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 0 (all models); PCV on 1970–1972 variants | |
| Compression ratio | 8.8:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven camshaft | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-30 mineral oil | |
| Dry weight | 126 kg |
The OHV valvetrain requires valve clearance checks every 12,000 km to maintain smooth operation and prevent excessive noise. SAE 10W-30 mineral oil is recommended due to the flat-tappet camshaft design, which depends on adequate zinc (ZDDP) for wear protection. The single carburettor simplifies tuning but may require adjustment after prolonged idling or seasonal changes. Later models (1970–1972) with PCV systems must retain functional hoses and oil separator valves to meet vintage emissions inspection criteria. Restorers should verify fuel system compatibility with modern ethanol-blended petrol, as rubber components may degrade over time. Cooling system integrity is critical—replace hoses and thermostat periodically to avoid overheating.
Oil Specs: Requires mineral-based SAE 10W-30 with ZDDP additive (Audi SIB 69-04-02). Modern synthetic oils may lack sufficient anti-wear protection for flat-tappet components.
Emissions: All models meet Euro 0. PCV-equipped units (1970–1972) align with early German TA-Luft guidelines (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/4321).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output may vary ±3% depending on carburettor calibration and ambient conditions (Audi TIS Doc. B11230).
Audi Technical Information System (TIS): Docs B11230, SIB 67-03-08, SIB 69-04-02
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/4321)
DIN 70020: Motor vehicles — Determination of rated power and maximum net power of piston engines
The Audi PV was used across Audi's F103 platform with longitudinal mounting and shared core architecture with NSU engines of the period. This engine received model-specific tuning—higher compression in the Audi 72 and revised exhaust manifolds in export variants—and from 1970 the updated Audi 72 LS adopted PCV and improved cooling, creating interchange limits. Shared engineering within the Volkswagen Group allowed common tooling and service procedures. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped vertically on the left-side cylinder block near the exhaust manifold (Audi TIS B11230). The 6th and 7th digits of the VIN indicate engine type ('PV' for this unit). Pre-1970 models have chrome valve covers with a single carburettor; post-1970 units feature black-painted manifolds with PCV routing. Critical differentiation from NSU variants: Audi PV uses a distributor mounted at the front of the block, while NSU Prinz units place it at the rear. Service parts require model-year verification—carburettor kits for pre-1970 models are not compatible with later PCV-equipped variants (Audi SIB 67-03-08).
The PV's primary reliability risk is water pump seal failure in high-temperature environments, with elevated incidence in vehicles used for extended highway driving. Internal Audi field reports from 1971 indicated a notable share of pre-1970 units required pump replacement before 80,000 km, while VCA vintage inspection data shows carburettor imbalance as a leading cause of emissions test failure. Prolonged idling and poor ventilation increase thermal stress on cooling components, making regular inspection and coolant maintenance critical.
Analysis derived from Audi technical bulletins (1965-1972) and UK DVSA vintage vehicle inspection statistics (1975-1985). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about AUDI PV.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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AUDI Official Site
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EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.
DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
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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.
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
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VCA Certification Portal
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