The Ford G8DF is a 1,798 cc, inline-four overhead camshaft (OHC) petrol engine produced between 1995 and 2004. It belongs to the Ford Zetec engine family, featuring a belt-driven single camshaft, multi-point fuel injection, and a cast-iron block with an alloy head. In standard tune it delivered 74 kW (101 PS) and 150 Nm of torque, offering reliable performance and smooth operation for compact and entry-level vehicles during the late 1990s and early 2000s.
Fitted to models such as the Escort Mk6 and Fiesta Mk4, the G8DF was engineered for durability, fuel economy, and ease of servicing in high-volume fleet and personal applications. Emissions compliance was achieved through a three-way catalytic converter and closed-loop lambda control, allowing it to meet Euro 2 and later Euro 3 standards. The engine's transverse mounting and front-wheel-drive layout supported Ford's global platform strategy for B- and C-segment vehicles across Europe and Asia.
One documented concern is premature camshaft belt wear, particularly in units subjected to extended service intervals. This issue, referenced in Ford Service Action 98S08, is attributed to tensioner degradation under sustained thermal cycling. From 1998, Ford revised the tensioner design and introduced a 90,000 km replacement interval to improve reliability, reducing the incidence of valve train damage due to timing loss.
Production years 1995–1999 meet Euro 2 standards; 2000–2004 models comply with Euro 3 (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/3580).
The Ford G8DF is a 1,798 cc inline-four OHC petrol engine engineered for compact and entry-level passenger vehicles (1995-2004). It combines a rigid cast-iron block with sequential multi-point injection to deliver predictable throttle response and dependable performance. Designed to meet evolving European emissions standards, it balances economy with regulatory compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,798 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, SOHC, 8-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 82.0 mm × 85.0 mm | |
| Power output | 74 kW (101 PS) @ 5,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 150 Nm @ 3,750 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Sequential multi-point fuel injection | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 2 (pre-2000); Euro 3 (2000–2004) | |
| Compression ratio | 9.8:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Belt (front-mounted; replacement interval critical) | |
| Oil type | Ford WSS-M2C134-A (10W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 142 kg |
The SOHC design enables predictable power delivery and simplified maintenance but requires strict adherence to the 90,000 km cam belt replacement interval to prevent valve train damage. Ford WSS-M2C134-A (10W-30) oil is recommended due to its shear stability and compatibility with older engine tolerances. 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-1998 models benefit from revised tensioner hardware; pre-1998 units should be inspected per Ford SIB 98S08.
Oil Specs: Requires Ford WSS-M2C134-A (10W-30) specification (Ford SIB 98S08). Compatible with API SH.
Emissions: Euro 2 certification applies to 1995–1999 models; Euro 3 applies to 2000–2004 (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/3580).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output consistent across fuel grades (Ford TIS Doc. Z21004).
Ford Technical Information System (TIS): Docs Z20561, Z20988, Z21004, SIB 98S08
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/3580)
DIN Standards: DIN 70020 Engine Power Measurement
The Ford G8DF was used across Ford's B456/C276 platforms with transverse mounting and shared architecture with Mazda in Asian markets. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake manifolds in the Fiesta and revised exhaust routing in the Escort-and from 2000 the facelifted Escort Mk6 adopted the G8DF variant with updated ECU calibration, creating interchange limits. Partnerships allowed Mazda's 1.8L FP units to share core block components. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the left-side engine block near the oil filter housing (Ford TIS Z20571). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine family ('G' for 1.8L Zetec). Pre-1998 models have silver valve covers with black plastic cam covers; post-1998 units use black valve covers. Critical differentiation from carburetted variants: G8DF has fuel injectors and lambda sensor; intake plenum is larger than carburetted units. Service parts require production date verification - timing belts for engines before 06/1998 are incompatible with later units due to tensioner redesign (Ford SIB 98S08).
The G8DF's primary reliability risk is cam belt failure on early builds, with elevated incidence in high-temperature environments. Internal Ford quality reports from 1999 noted increased valve train damage in pre-1998 units below 90,000 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 (1996-2000) and UK DVSA failure statistics (1998-2005). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD G8DF.
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 FORD 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.
FORD 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 officialFORD 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.
