The CADILLAC ED is a 1,472 cc, inline-four petrol engine produced between 1987 and 1993. It features a SOHC valvetrain, multi-port fuel injection, and cast-iron block construction, delivering reliable performance for compact and utility applications. In standard tune it produced 64 kW (87 PS) with 125 Nm of torque, forming part of Daihatsu's E engine family.
Fitted to models such as the Daihatsu Charade, Applause, and Mira, the ED was engineered for durability in fleet and everyday driving conditions. Emissions compliance was achieved through exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) and a catalytic converter, allowing all units to meet early Euro 1 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9236).
One documented concern is premature camshaft wear, highlighted in Daihatsu Service Information Bulletin 89-NA-038. This issue is linked to inadequate lubrication at the camshaft lobes during sustained high-RPM operation and extended oil change intervals. In 1990, Daihatsu revised the oil pump design and updated lifter profiles to improve durability, marking a key update during the engine's production run.
All production years (1987–1993) meet early Euro 1 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9236).
The CADILLAC ED is a 1,472 cc inline-four petrol engine engineered for compact and utility vehicles (1987–1993). It combines robust SOHC architecture with multi-port fuel injection to deliver reliable urban and highway performance. Designed to meet early European emissions standards, it represents a durable iteration of Daihatsu's mid-displacement engine platform.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,472 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, SOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 75.0 mm × 83.5 mm | |
| Power output | 64 kW (87 PS) @ 6,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 125 Nm @ 4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi-port fuel injection | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 1 | |
| Compression ratio | 9.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Gear-driven (non-interference design) | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-30 (API SF) | |
| Dry weight | 128 kg |
The gear-driven SOHC design demands strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals to prevent camshaft and lifter wear. SAE 10W-30 API SF oil is essential due to its stability under sustained load conditions. Extended warm-up periods are recommended before aggressive driving to ensure proper oil circulation. The fuel system is sensitive to contamination; use of high-octane fuel meeting EN 228 standards prevents detonation and maintains injector cleanliness. Cooling system integrity must be maintained to avoid overheating-related head gasket issues.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 10W-30 API SF specification (Daihatsu Service Manual 1987-0369).
Emissions: Certified to early Euro 1 standards (VCA #VCA/EMS/9236).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. 64 kW output requires 87 RON fuel (Daihatsu TIS Doc. A24714).
Daihatsu Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A24714, A25166, SIB 89-NA-038
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/9236)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The CADILLAC ED was used across Daihatsu's CHx and Mx platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shortened intake manifolds in the Charade and revised cooling routing in the Mira-and from 1990 the facelifted Applause models adopted updated ECU calibration, creating minor software differences. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped vertically on the left-side engine block near the exhaust manifold (Daihatsu TIS A25114). The 8th digit of the VIN indicates engine family ('E' for E series). Pre-1990 models have silver valve covers with black gasket seals; post-1990 units use black valve covers. Critical differentiation from ED-1: Original ED has Denso ECU with 40-pin connector and cast-iron block, while ED-1 uses aluminium block. Service parts require production date verification—lifters before 09/1989 are incompatible with later revisions due to internal redesign (Daihatsu SIB 89-NA-038).
The ED's primary reliability risk is camshaft and lifter wear, with elevated incidence in sustained highway driving with frequent short trips. Internal Daihatsu quality reports from 1989 indicated a significant share of pre-1990 engines required camshaft replacement before 100,000 km, while NHTSA field reports show drivability faults contributing to emissions-related failures. Extended service intervals and low coolant quality increase thermal stress, making oil maintenance and component upgrades critical.
Analysis derived from Daihatsu technical bulletins (1987–1993) and NHTSA field reports (1989–1992). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about DAIHATSU ED.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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