The Daewoo C20NW is a 1,998 cc, inline-four, naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1999 and 2002. It was developed as a mid-sized powerplant for Daewoo's larger sedans and wagons, featuring a SOHC 8-valve design with multi-point fuel injection (MPFI). Engineered for smooth operation and predictable performance, it delivered 76 kW (103 PS) at 5,400 rpm and 165 Nm of torque at 2,600 rpm, providing adequate power for family-oriented driving.
Fitted primarily to the Daewoo Nubira and Leganza, the C20NW engine was designed for drivers seeking reliability and ease of maintenance in a larger vehicle platform. It supported both sedan and wagon body styles, offering balanced weight distribution and sufficient low-end torque for highway cruising and moderate load conditions. Emissions compliance was achieved through a three-way catalytic converter and oxygen sensor feedback, meeting Euro 2 standards across its production run.
One documented reliability concern is premature wear of the hydraulic tappets, which can lead to persistent valve train noise if not addressed early. This issue, noted in Daewoo Service Information Bulletin ENG-99-021, is attributed to oil passage restrictions in early cylinder head castings. From 2000, revised cylinder heads with improved oil gallery machining were introduced to enhance tappet lubrication and reduce noise incidence.
Daewoo
All C20NW production (1999–2002) meets Euro 2 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789).
The Daewoo C20NW is a 1,998 cc inline-four, naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for mid-size sedans and wagons (1999–2002). It features SOHC 8-valve architecture with multi-point fuel injection (MPFI), delivering linear power delivery and strong low-end torque suitable for family and fleet applications. Designed to meet Euro 2 emissions standards, it prioritizes durability, serviceability, and consistent performance under varied operating conditions.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,998 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded, 95 RON) | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, SOHC, 8-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 84.0 mm × 90.0 mm | |
| Power output | 76 kW (103 PS) @ 5,400 rpm | |
| Torque | 165 Nm @ 2,600 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi-point fuel injection (MPFI) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 2 | |
| Compression ratio | 9.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Timing belt (interval: 60,000 km) | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-40 (API SL/CF) | |
| Dry weight | 138 kg |
The C20NW provides smooth, linear power delivery ideal for highway cruising and family use, but strict adherence to the 60,000 km timing belt replacement interval is essential to prevent engine damage. Use of API SL/CF-rated 10W-40 oil ensures proper hydraulic tappet function and valve train protection. The MPFI system is robust but sensitive to fuel quality; prolonged use of low-octane petrol can lead to carbon buildup and reduced efficiency. Post-2000 models feature revised cylinder heads with improved oil passages per Daewoo SIB ENG-99-021; pre-2000 units should be inspected for tappet noise and upgraded if necessary. The three-way catalyst requires periodic inspection to maintain emissions compliance and prevent exhaust restriction.
Oil Specs: Requires API SL/CF specification (Daewoo Owner's Manual Rev. 4.0). SAE 10W-40 recommended for all climates.
Emissions: Euro 2 certification applies to all models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789). No market-specific variants.
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. Output consistent across fuel qualities meeting 95 RON minimum (Daewoo TIS Doc. C20-1001).
Daewoo Technical Information System (TIS): Docs C20-1001, C20-2050, ENG-99-021
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/6789)
ISO 1585: Road vehicles — Engine test code — Net power
The Daewoo C20NW was used across Daewoo's J100/C100 platforms with transverse mounting and shared architecture with Holden derivatives in select markets. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced engine mounts in the Leganza and revised intake manifolds in the Nubira Wagon-and from 2000 the facelifted Nubira II adopted a revised ECU calibration for improved idle stability, 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 C20-1050). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('C' for C20 series). Pre-2000 models have a black plastic intake manifold with silver valve cover; post-2000 units use a revised cylinder head with improved oil passages. Critical differentiation from C20SE: C20NW has a 103 PS output and 84.0 mm bore, while C20SE has 115 PS and 86.0 mm bore. Service parts require model-year verification—timing belts for pre-2000 models are compatible with early tensioners, but post-2000 kits include updated tensioner hardware per Daewoo SIB ENG-99-021.
The C20NW's primary reliability risk is hydraulic tappet wear or failure, with elevated incidence in high-mileage vehicles and those with delayed oil changes. Internal Daewoo quality reports from 2001 indicated a significant portion of pre-2000 engines developed tappet noise before 100,000 km, while VCA field data shows valve train-related complaints as a leading cause of drivability issues in imported models. Infrequent maintenance and poor-quality oil accelerate wear, making adherence to the 60,000 km replacement interval and correct oil specification 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 C20NW.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
Independent Technical Reference
EngineCode.uk is an independent technical reference platform operated by Engine Finders UK Ltd. We are not affiliated with DAEWOO or any other manufacturer. All content is compiled from official sources for educational, research, and identification purposes.
Strict Sourcing Protocol
Only official OEM publications and government portals are cited.
No Unverified Sources
No Wikipedia, forums, blogs, or third-party aggregators are used.
Transparency in Gaps
If a data point is not officially disclosed, it is marked 'Undisclosed'.
Regulatory Stability
EU regulations are referenced using CELEX identifiers for long-term stability.
DAEWOO Official Site
Owner literature, service manuals, technical releases, and plant documentation.
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)
UK type-approval authority for automotive products.
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
UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.
VCA Certification Portal
Type-approval guidance and documentation.
Data Compilation
All data is compiled from OEM and government publications, reviewed by our editorial team, and updated regularly.
Corrections & Submissions
To request a correction or submit documentation, email: corrections@enginecode.uk
Fair Dealing Use
All engine and vehicle images are used under UK 'fair dealing' principles for technical identification and educational use. Rights remain with their respective owners.
Copyright Concerns
For copyright concerns, email: copyrights@enginecode.uk
GDPR Compliance
EngineCode.uk complies with UK GDPR. We do not collect personal data unless explicitly provided.
Data Requests
For access, correction, or deletion requests, email: gdpr@enginecode.uk
Trademark Notice
All trademarks, logos, and engine codes are the property of their respective owners. Use on this site is strictly for reference and identification.
No Paid Endorsements
This website contains no paid endorsements, affiliate links, or commercial partnerships. We do not sell parts or services.
Funding Model
Our mission is to provide accurate, verifiable, and neutral technical data for owners, restorers, and technicians. This site is self-funded.
All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialDAEWOO documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed“ .
All external links open in new tabs. Please verify current availability of resources.
