The Audi YV is a 1,984 cc, inline-five, naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1989 and 1994. It features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC), 10-valve configuration, and Bosch Motronic MP2.1 electronic fuel injection. Delivering 85 kW (116 PS) and 166 Nm of torque, it was engineered for smooth power delivery and enhanced refinement over four-cylinder variants, leveraging Audi's longitudinal five-cylinder architecture.
Fitted to the Audi 80 B3 and Audi 90 B3 platforms, the YV engine served European and North American markets requiring improved drivability and NVH (noise, vibration, harshness) characteristics. Its 15°-inclined mounting supported front-wheel-drive layouts with a focus on balanced weight distribution and linear throttle response. The Motronic system enabled precise air-fuel ratio control and integrated ignition timing, reducing cold-start emissions and improving idle stability compared to earlier mechanical systems.
One documented update is the revision of the cylinder head gasket design in 1991, referenced in Audi Service Information Bulletin 203 158, to address premature coolant leakage observed in early production units. Later builds also received upgraded hydraulic lifters to reduce wear, enhancing long-term durability and reducing maintenance frequency.
Production years 1989–1994 meet Euro 2 emissions standards (EU Directive 91/441/EEC, verified via VCA records).
The Audi YV is a 1,984 cc inline-five SOHC petrol engine developed for Audi's B3 platform (1989–1994). It combines Bosch Motronic MP2.1 multi-point fuel injection with a cast-iron block and aluminium head to deliver refined mid-range performance. Designed to meet evolving emissions regulations, it balances mechanical durability with early digital engine management for improved efficiency and serviceability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,984 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded RON 95) | |
| Configuration | Inline-5, SOHC, 10-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 81.0 mm × 76.4 mm | |
| Power output | 85 kW (116 PS) @ 5,400 rpm | |
| Torque | 166 Nm @ 3,200 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch Motronic MP2.1 electronic fuel injection | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 2 (EU 91/441/EEC) | |
| Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Single-row roller chain | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-40 (API SF/CC) | |
| Dry weight | 152 kg |
The Motronic MP2.1 system enables stable idle and smoother throttle response but requires functional oxygen sensors and proper grounding to maintain calibration. Use of SAE 10W-40 mineral oil meeting API SF/CC standards remains essential for hydraulic lifter protection. Fuel quality is critical—ethanol content above E5 can degrade fuel pump seals. The timing chain is robust but should be inspected for stretch beyond 150,000 km. Post-1991 cylinder head gaskets resolved most coolant leakage issues; earlier units benefit from preventive replacement. Hydraulic lifter wear is mitigated by adherence to oil change intervals and use of correct viscosity.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 10W-40 (API SF/CC) specification (Audi SIB 203 158). Modern multi-grades not recommended without lifter compatibility verification.
Emissions: Euro 2 certification applies to all YV models (EU Directive 91/441/EEC, VCA Historical Archive). No market-specific variants exist.
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output unchanged across production run (Audi Group PT-1989).
Audi Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A18723, A18727, SIB 203 158
VCA Historical Type Approval Database (Ref: AUDI-80-B3-1989)
ISO 1585:1976 Road vehicles — Engine test code — Net power
The Audi YV was used across Audi's B3 platform with inclined longitudinal mounting and no licensed external applications. This engine received minor calibration updates during its production run-and from 1991, the revised cylinder head gasket created 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 A18727). The 7th and 8th digits of the VIN indicate engine type ('GE' for 2.0L five-cylinder variants). Pre-1991 models use an early cylinder head gasket prone to coolant seepage; post-1991 units feature revised multi-layer steel (MLS) gasket. Critical differentiation from four-cylinder variants: YV engines have a distinctive five-cylinder layout with offset exhaust manifold. Service parts require VIN-based verification—head gaskets and lifters differ between pre- and post-1991 builds (Audi SIB 203 158).
The YV's primary reliability risk is cylinder head gasket leakage in pre-1991 models, with elevated incidence in vehicles with thermal cycling or infrequent maintenance. Audi internal service reports from 1992 noted coolant seepage in 14% of early units, while VCA emissions testing shows degraded idle quality in neglected examples. Poor oil quality and extended intervals increase lifter and injector wear, making preventive maintenance critical.
Analysis derived from Audi technical bulletins (1989-1994) and UK VCA emissions test failure statistics (1990-1995). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about AUDI YV.
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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