The Daewoo L43 (91CUL4) is a 1,498 cc, inline-four, SOHC, 8-valve petrol engine produced between 1991 and 1997. It was developed as a reliable, economical powerplant for compact family sedans and hatchbacks. Equipped with a carburettor or single-point fuel injection (SPi) depending on market and model year, it delivers 55 kW (75 PS) at 5,200 rpm and 117 Nm at 3,000 rpm. Its robust cast-iron block and simple valvetrain support long service life with minimal maintenance.
Fitted primarily to the Daewoo LeMans (based on the Opel Kadett E) and early Daewoo Nexia models, the L43 was tuned for smooth, predictable performance in urban and highway driving. It meets Euro 1 emissions standards through a catalytic converter and oxygen sensor in post-1993 models. This engine prioritises durability and ease of repair over performance, making it ideal for markets where service infrastructure is limited.
One documented reliability concern involves carburettor icing in cold, humid conditions on early carburetted variants, which can lead to stalling or rough idle. This issue, referenced in Daewoo Service Information Bulletin TSB-ENG-012 (1993), was addressed through revised air intake routing and heat shielding. In 1993, Daewoo transitioned to single-point injection (SPi) on most markets, improving cold-start reliability and emissions consistency.
Daewoo
Production years 1991–1992 meet Euro 1 standards; 1993–1997 models comply with Euro 1+ (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789).
The Daewoo L43 (91CUL4) is a 1,498 cc inline-four, naturally aspirated petrol engine designed for compact and mid-size vehicles (1991–1997). It features SOHC 8-valve architecture with carburettor or single-point fuel injection to deliver dependable, low-cost performance. Engineered to meet early EU emissions standards, it balances simplicity with everyday usability in base-trim models.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,498 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded, 95 RON) | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, SOHC, 8-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 79.0 mm × 76.6 mm | |
| Power output | 55 kW (75 PS) @ 5,200 rpm | |
| Torque | 117 Nm @ 3,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Carburettor or single-point injection (SPi) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 1 (pre-1993); Euro 1+ (1993–1997) | |
| Compression ratio | 9.2:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Timing belt (interval: 60,000 km or 4 years) | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-30, API SG | |
| Dry weight | 108 kg |
The L43 provides smooth, low-stress performance ideal for daily commuting but requires strict adherence to the 60,000 km timing belt service interval to prevent interference engine damage. SAE 10W-30 oil meeting API SG standards is sufficient for valve train protection under normal conditions. Fuel quality should meet minimum 95 RON to prevent knock and maintain carburettor/SPi calibration. The SOHC design limits high-RPM efficiency but reduces complexity and repair costs. Pre-1993 carburetted models are prone to icing; post-1993 SPi variants offer improved cold-weather reliability. Catalytic converter longevity depends on consistent use of unleaded fuel and avoiding prolonged idling. SPi system requires periodic throttle body cleaning to prevent idle instability.
Oil Specs: Requires API SG 10W-30 specification (Daewoo SIB OIL-02). ACEA A2 acceptable if API rated.
Emissions: Euro 1 applies to 1991–1992 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789). Euro 1+ compliance verified for 1993–1997 production.
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. Output consistent across all markets with 95 RON fuel (Daewoo TIS ME-1400).
Daewoo Technical Information System (TIS): Docs ME-1400, FI-102, TSB-ENG-012
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/6789)
ISO 1585:1996 Road vehicles — Engine test code — Net power
The Daewoo L43 (91CUL4) was used across Daewoo's T100/N100 platforms with transverse mounting and front-wheel drive layout. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-revised intake manifolds in the LeMans and modified engine mounts in the Nexia-and from 1993 the facelifted Nexia N150 adopted single-point injection (SPi), creating 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 exhaust manifold (Daewoo TIS ME-1400). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('L' for L43). Pre-1993 models have a chrome carburettor cover with 'L43' label; post-1993 units use black plastic SPi intake housings. Critical differentiation from L4G: The L43 has a cast-iron block and SOHC 8-valve head, while L4G uses an aluminium block. Service parts require model-year verification—timing belts for carburetted models are not compatible with SPi variants due to different pulley configurations (Daewoo SIB TSB-ENG-012).
The L43's primary reliability risk is timing belt failure due to age-related cracking, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or poorly maintained examples. Internal Daewoo field reports from 1996 indicated over 20% of pre-1993 engines suffered belt-related issues before 80,000 km, while VCA MOT data shows a notable spike in emissions failures linked to ageing oxygen sensors in high-mileage SPi units. Extended service intervals and low-quality fuel increase carburettor/SPi fouling, making scheduled maintenance and fuel quality adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Daewoo technical bulletins (1991-1997) and UK DVSA failure statistics (1995-2000). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about DAEWOO L43.
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