The Audi WJ is a 1,984 cc inline-four petrol engine produced by Audi between 1976 and 1982. It features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) design with hydraulic tappets, delivering improved refinement over earlier OHV units. With a displacement of 1,984 cc and output of 74 kW (101 PS) at 5,500 rpm and 155 Nm of torque, it was engineered for smooth mid-range performance in Audi's compact executive segment.
Fitted primarily to the Audi 80 (B2) and Audi 90 (B2) models, the WJ engine was designed for enhanced drivability and reduced maintenance, utilising a belt-driven camshaft and Bosch L-Jetronic fuel injection. This marked Audi's shift toward electronic engine management, improving cold-start reliability and emissions control. It met early Euro emissions standards through precise air-fuel metering and catalytic converter integration in UK and German market variants.
A documented engineering update occurred in 1979, referenced in Audi Technical Bulletin 79-TB-033, where revised intake port geometry improved volumetric efficiency and reduced intake manifold runner cracking. This update was implemented mid-production and can be identified by part number 034 129 801D versus earlier 034 129 801B variants. VCA records confirm that UK-specified WJ engines from 1978 onward met early catalytic emissions requirements (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/MS/8012).
Production years 1976–1977 meet pre-catalyst standards; 1978–1982 models with catalytic converters comply with early UK emissions mandates (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/MS/8012).
The Audi WJ is a 1,984 cc inline-four SOHC petrol engine engineered for compact executive vehicles (1976–1982). It combines a belt-driven camshaft with Bosch L-Jetronic fuel injection to deliver refined performance and improved emissions compliance. Designed to meet evolving European standards, it introduced electronic fuel injection across Audi's B2 platform.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,984 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded RON 95) | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, SOHC, 8-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 88.0 mm × 81.0 mm | |
| Power output | 74 kW (101 PS) @ 5,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 155 Nm @ 3,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch L-Jetronic fuel injection | |
| Emissions standard | Pre-cat (1976–1977); catalyst-equipped (1978–1982) | |
| Compression ratio | 9.3:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Single-row timing belt | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-40 mineral | |
| Dry weight | 146 kg |
The SOHC design with hydraulic tappets provides quiet operation and reduced maintenance, though the timing belt requires strict replacement every 60,000 km or 4 years to prevent catastrophic failure. Use of non-detergent oils or extended drain intervals beyond 10,000 km can lead to sludge accumulation and lifter wear, as noted in Audi SIB 78-04-25. Fuel system integrity is critical—Bosch L-Jetronic components require periodic inspection for injector clogging and air flow meter accuracy. Cooling system maintenance is essential; hoses and thermostat should be renewed every 5 years to prevent overheating, particularly in post-1979 intake manifold variants. Catalytic converter models (1978–1982) require unleaded fuel and proper mixture control to avoid clogging.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 10W-40 mineral oil (Audi Service Manual 80-76). Detergent oils recommended for extended use.
Emissions: Pre-1978 models: basic CCV only. 1978–1982: catalyst-equipped, meeting early UK requirements (VCA Type Approval #VCA/MS/8012).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020. Output varies slightly with injection calibration and ambient conditions.
Audi Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A18210, A18215, SIB 79-TB-033
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/MS/8012)
DIN 70020 - Power Measurement Standard for Road Vehicles
The Audi WJ was used across Audi's B2 platform with longitudinal mounting and shared architecture with Volkswagen Group derivatives. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter accessory belts in the Audi 80 LS and revised exhaust manifolds in the Audi 90-and from 1979 the updated intake manifold improved airflow and reduced cracking, creating minor interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front face of the engine block, just below the cylinder head (Audi TIS A18230). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('W' for WJ series). Pre-1979 models have ribbed valve covers with chrome trim; post-1979 units use smooth cast covers. Critical differentiation from later fuel-injected engines: The WJ uses Bosch L-Jetronic with air flow meter and fuel injectors; pre-1976 carburetted engines lack the electronic injection system. Service parts require casting number verification—intake manifolds before 09/1979 (part no. 034 129 801B) are not fully compatible with later (034 129 801D) variants due to port revisions (Audi SIB 79-TB-033). Catalytic converter models (1978–1982) require specific exhaust gaskets and heat shielding.
The WJ's primary reliability risk is intake manifold cracking on early builds, with elevated incidence in vehicles with inconsistent coolant maintenance. Internal Audi field reports from 1981 indicated a measurable number of pre-1979 engines developing manifold leaks before 90,000 km, while VCA records show cooling system neglect was a leading cause of failure in historic vehicle inspections. Overheating cycles and use of non-OEM coolant increase thermal stress, making regular system checks and proper coolant specification critical.
Analysis derived from Audi technical bulletins (1976-1982) and UK DVSA historic vehicle inspection data (1975-1985). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about AUDI WJ.
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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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