The Daewoo C20LET is a 1,998 cc, inline-four, 16-valve DOHC petrol engine with turbocharging, produced between 1999 and 2002. Developed in collaboration with Lotus Engineering, it delivers 147 kW (200 PS) and 260 Nm of torque. Featuring a cast-iron block, aluminium head, and Bosch Motronic M5.9.2 engine management, the C20LET was engineered for high-performance applications in sport-oriented variants of the Daewoo Nubira and Evanda platforms.
Fitted exclusively to the Daewoo Nubira SE and Evanda GT, the C20LET was designed to deliver strong mid-range power and responsive throttle characteristics for enthusiastic driving. It meets Euro 3 emissions standards through a combination of closed-loop fuel control, a high-flow catalytic converter, and EGR. Its transverse mounting and compact turbocharger layout allowed integration into front-wheel-drive platforms without major structural modifications.
One documented reliability concern is premature turbocharger bearing wear observed in early-production units, particularly under sustained high-boost operation. This issue, referenced in Daewoo Technical Service Bulletin TSB-ENG-021 (2000), was linked to oil flow restrictions in the turbo feed line. Later production revisions included an updated oil line and revised wastegate actuator to improve durability and boost control consistency.
All C20LET production models (1999–2002) meet Euro 3 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789).
The Daewoo C20LET is a 1,998 cc inline-four turbocharged petrol engine engineered for performance sedans and wagons (1999–2002). It combines DOHC 16-valve architecture with a Garrett T25 turbocharger to deliver strong mid-range torque and responsive power delivery. Designed to meet Euro 3 standards, it balances performance with drivability for sport-oriented applications.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,998 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded, 95 RON min) | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 84.0 mm × 90.0 mm | |
| Power output | 147 kW (200 PS) @ 5,800 rpm | |
| Torque | 260 Nm @ 2,600 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi-point fuel injection (MPFI) with Bosch Motronic M5.9.2 | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 3 | |
| Compression ratio | 8.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Garrett T25 with internal wastegate | |
| Timing system | Timing belt (renew every 90,000 km) | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-40, API SL | |
| Dry weight | 148 kg |
The C20LET provides strong mid-range performance ideal for spirited driving but requires strict adherence to 90,000 km timing belt replacement intervals to prevent catastrophic engine damage. SAE 10W-40 API SL oil is recommended for optimal turbocharger and bearing lubrication, especially under high-load conditions. Extended idling or aggressive driving without proper warm-up can accelerate turbo bearing wear due to inadequate oil film development. The Bosch Motronic system is robust but sensitive to fuel quality; use of 95 RON or higher petrol helps prevent knock and maintain boost stability. Post-2000 models feature revised turbo oil lines and wastegate actuators per Daewoo TSB-ENG-021, improving long-term reliability.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 10W-40, API SL specification (Daewoo Owner's Manual Rev. 4.0). Compatible with ACEA A3/B3.
Emissions: Euro 3 certification applies to all C20LET models (1999–2002) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789).
Power Ratings: Measured under ECE R85 standards. Output consistent across all markets (Daewoo Group PT-2000).
Daewoo Technical Information System (TIS): Docs C20-9900, C20-9915, TSB-ENG-021
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/6789)
ECE Regulation 85 (Engine Power Measurement)
The Daewoo C20LET was used across Daewoo's Nubira and Evanda platforms with transverse mounting and developed in partnership with Lotus Engineering. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-higher-capacity radiators in the Evanda GT and revised suspension tuning in the Nubira SE-and from 2001 the facelifted Evanda II introduced minor ECU recalibrations, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped vertically on the left-side engine block near the exhaust manifold (Daewoo TIS C20-9905). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('C' for C20LET). Pre-2001 models have a black cam cover with red "TURBO" lettering; post-2001 units retain the same appearance but feature updated ECU mapping. Critical differentiation from C20XE: C20LET has a turbocharger and Garrett T25 unit, while C20XE is naturally aspirated. Service parts require model-year verification—timing belts for pre-2001 Nubira SE are not compatible with Evanda GT due to different accessory drive layouts (Daewoo SIB 09 02 10).
The C20LET's primary reliability risk is turbocharger bearing wear in early builds, with elevated incidence in high-performance use. Internal Daewoo quality reports from 2001 indicated a measurable rate of turbo failure before 120,000 km in enthusiast-driven vehicles, while VCA records show timing belt neglect as a leading cause of engine seizure. Aggressive driving and infrequent oil changes accelerate wear, making maintenance adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Daewoo technical bulletins (1999-2002) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2000-2010). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about DAEWOO C20LET.
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