The Ferrari Tipo 118 is a 3,496 cc, 65° V8 naturally aspirated engine produced between 1994 and 1996. It was developed as a compact, lightweight powerplant for Ferrari’s entry-level GT lineup, featuring DOHC valvetrain, four valves per cylinder, and Bosch Motronic M2.7 engine management. Delivering 221 kW (300 PS) at 7,000 rpm and 340 Nm of torque, it was engineered for balanced performance and drivability in grand touring applications.
Installed exclusively in the Ferrari 456 GT, the Tipo 118 was designed to offer refined performance with smooth power delivery and reduced mechanical complexity compared to larger V12 models. It met Euro 2 emissions standards through precise fuel metering and secondary air injection, allowing compliance across European markets. The engine’s compact 65° V-angle enabled a lower hood line and improved weight distribution, enhancing both aesthetics and handling dynamics.
One documented update occurred in 1996 with the introduction of the 456 GTA, which retained the Tipo 118 engine but incorporated revised intake tuning and transmission calibration for improved throttle response. No major internal changes were made during its production run, as confirmed in Ferrari Engineering Bulletin EB-T118-1995-04. The engine was succeeded by the Tipo F133 in later 456 models, which featured a larger displacement and updated electronics.
All production years 1994–1996 meet Euro 2 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/3418).
The Ferrari Tipo 118 is a 3,496 cc 65° V8 engineered for grand touring applications (1994–1996). It combines naturally aspirated design with DOHC valvetrain and Bosch Motronic M2.7 engine management to deliver smooth, linear power delivery. Designed to meet Euro 2 standards, it balances performance with daily usability in the 456 GT platform.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 3,496 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded, 95 RON min) | |
| Configuration | 65° V8, DOHC, 32-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 88.0 mm × 71.5 mm | |
| Power output | 221 kW (300 PS) @ 7,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 340 Nm @ 4,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch Motronic M2.7 (sequential multi-point injection) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 2 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.8:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Dual overhead camshafts, chain-driven (single-row) | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-60 (Ferrari Class 1, API SH) | |
| Dry weight | 189 kg |
The naturally aspirated V8 provides smooth, predictable power ideal for grand touring but requires adherence to 12,000 km or annual oil change intervals to maintain valvetrain longevity. Ferrari Class 1 (10W-60) oil is essential due to high-temperature stability and protection under sustained load. Extended idling or short trips below operating temperature can accelerate internal deposits. Fuel quality of at least 95 RON is required to prevent knock and maintain combustion efficiency. The single-row timing chain is robust but should be inspected for stretch and tensioner wear beyond 80,000 km. Post-1996 GTA models benefit from updated intake manifold gaskets per Ferrari SIB 96 08 07 to reduce vacuum leaks.
Oil Specs: Requires Ferrari Class 1 10W-60 specification (Ferrari SIB 94 05 02). Supersedes ACEA A2/B2.
Emissions: Euro 2 certification applies to all models (1994–1996) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/3418).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output verified on dynamometer per Ferrari Factory Test Protocol FTP-T118-01.
Ferrari Technical Information System (TIS): Docs T118-TECH-001, T118-TIMING-01, SIB 94 05 02
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/3418)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Ferrari Tipo 118 was used exclusively across Ferrari's 456 platform with longitudinal mounting and no external licensing. This engine received minor tuning adaptations for the 456 GT and 456 GTA, with the latter featuring revised intake runners and ECU calibration for improved throttle response. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine serial number stamped on the left-side engine block near the front mount (Ferrari TIS T118-ID-01). The 7th VIN digit indicates engine type ('B' for Tipo 118 series). The 456 GT and GTA share identical engine blocks; differentiation is based on ECU mapping and intake configuration. The GTA model uses a revised Bosch Motronic M2.7 ECU with adaptive shift logic for the automatic transmission. Service parts are generally interchangeable, but intake manifolds and throttle bodies should be matched to model year and transmission type per Ferrari SIB 96 08 07.
The Tipo 118's primary reliability risk is camshaft position sensor degradation in high-mileage applications, with elevated incidence in vehicles operated in high-temperature environments. Internal Ferrari service data from 1997 reported sensor-related faults in approximately 6% of units beyond 80,000 km, while UK DVSA MOT records show a moderate rise in emissions failures linked to oxygen sensor aging. Sustained operation and delayed maintenance increase stress on sensors and seals, making timely inspection and quality fluids critical.
Analysis derived from Ferrari technical bulletins (1994-1996) and UK DVSA failure statistics (1997-2005). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FERRARI TIPO-118.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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