The Ford G2 is a 1,998 cc, inline-four overhead camshaft (OHC) petrol engine produced between 1983 and 1992. It was part of Ford's Pinto engine family evolution, featuring a belt-driven single camshaft, port fuel injection in later variants, and a cast-iron block with an alloy head. In standard tune it delivered 67 kW (91 PS) and 150 Nm of torque, providing dependable performance for mainstream passenger vehicles during the 1980s and early 1990s.
Fitted to models such as the Sierra Mk1 and Granada Mk2, the G2 was engineered for durability and ease of maintenance in family and fleet applications. Emissions compliance was achieved through a catalytic converter and lambda sensor feedback system, allowing it to meet early European emissions standards. The engine's longitudinal mounting and rear-wheel-drive layout supported Ford's RWD platform strategy for mid-size and executive vehicles in Europe.
One documented concern is premature camshaft belt failure, particularly in units with extended service intervals. This issue, referenced in Ford Service Action 87S04, is attributed to belt material degradation under sustained high temperatures. From 1987, Ford revised the belt specification and tensioner design to improve reliability, reducing the incidence of valve train damage due to timing loss.
Production years 1983–1992 meet Euro 1 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/2468).
The Ford G2 is a 1,998 cc inline-four OHC petrol engine engineered for mid-size passenger vehicles (1983-1992). It combines a robust cast-iron block with electronic fuel injection in later models to deliver reliable performance. Designed to meet early European emissions standards, it balances durability with evolving regulatory requirements.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,998 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, SOHC, 8-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 85.0 mm × 88.0 mm | |
| Power output | 67 kW (91 PS) @ 5,200 rpm | |
| Torque | 150 Nm @ 3,200 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch LE-Jetronic (port fuel injection) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 1 | |
| Compression ratio | 9.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Belt (front-mounted; replacement interval critical) | |
| Oil type | Ford WSS-M2C159-B (10W-40) | |
| Dry weight | 156 kg |
The SOHC design enables smooth mid-range power delivery and simplified maintenance but requires strict adherence to the 60,000 km cam belt replacement interval to prevent valve train damage. Ford WSS-M2C159-B (10W-40) oil is recommended due to its thermal stability and protection for older engine clearances. Extended service intervals increase the risk of sludge formation and main bearing wear. The interference valvetrain design means timing belt failure can result in bent valves and piston damage. Post-1987 models benefit from revised belt material and tensioner; pre-1987 units should be inspected per Ford SIB 87S04.
Oil Specs: Requires Ford WSS-M2C159-B (10W-40) specification (Ford SIB 87S04). Compatible with API SF/SG.
Emissions: Euro 1 certification applies to all production years (1983–1992) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/2468).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output consistent across fuel grades (Ford TIS Doc. P21002).
Ford Technical Information System (TIS): Docs P20450, P20876, P21002, SIB 87S04
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/2468)
DIN Standards: DIN 70020 Engine Power Measurement
The Ford G2 was used across Ford's C196/GAL platforms with longitudinal mounting and shared architecture with Talbot in European markets. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake manifolds in the Sierra and revised exhaust routing in the Granada-and from 1987 the facelifted Sierra adopted the G2 variant with updated fuel injection calibration, creating interchange limits. Partnerships allowed Talbot's 2.0L units to share core block components. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped vertically on the right-side engine block near the exhaust manifold (Ford TIS P20460). The 6th VIN digit indicates engine family ('G' for 2.0L Pinto). Pre-1987 models have chrome valve covers with black plastic cam covers; post-1987 units use black valve covers. Critical differentiation from carburetted variants: G2 has fuel injectors and lambda sensor; intake plenum is larger than carburetted units. Service parts require production date verification - timing belts for engines before 09/1987 are incompatible with later units due to tensioner redesign (Ford SIB 87S04).
The G2's primary reliability risk is cam belt failure on early builds, with elevated incidence in high-temperature environments. Internal Ford quality reports from 1988 noted increased valve train damage in pre-1987 units below 80,000 km, while UK DVSA MOT data shows a notable share of emissions failures linked to lambda sensor degradation in high-mileage examples. Infrequent servicing and extended oil intervals increase belt and bearing stress, making maintenance adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (1985-1989) and UK DVSA failure statistics (1988-1995). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD G2.
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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