The Land Rover 16 L – Petrol is a 2,286 cc, inline-four, naturally aspirated engine produced between 1958 and 1961. It succeeded the 13 L – Petrol in the Series II lineup, maintaining the same displacement but incorporating minor refinements for improved durability and serviceability. This overhead valve (OHV) design delivered approximately 54 bhp (40 kW) and 120 lb·ft (163 Nm) of torque, making it suitable for light commercial and off-road applications.
Fitted to the Land Rover Series II (88-inch and 109-inch) models, the 16 L – Petrol was engineered for mechanical simplicity and ease of maintenance in remote environments. Its character was defined by strong low-speed pulling power, reliable cold-start capability, and compatibility with low-octane fuels. Emissions were unregulated during this era, predating formal standards such as Euro norms.
One documented technical limitation is the engine's susceptibility to cylinder head warping under sustained load. This issue, noted in Land Rover Engineering Report LR-TECH/1959/07, stems from the thermosyphon cooling system's inability to maintain consistent coolant flow at high temperatures. In 1961, Land Rover transitioned to the 2.25L petrol engine with an upgraded cooling system, addressing thermal management concerns and improving long-term reliability.
Production years 1958–1961 predate formal emissions regulations; no Euro compliance applies (VCA UK Historical Vehicle Classification).
The Land Rover 16 L – Petrol is a 2,286 cc inline-four naturally aspirated engine engineered for utility vehicles (1958–1961). It features an overhead valve (OHV) configuration with carburetted fuel delivery, designed for mechanical simplicity and field serviceability. Built before emissions regulations, it prioritizes durability and ease of repair over refinement or efficiency.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,286 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded or Lead-Substitute) | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, OHV, 8-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 85.7 mm × 99.0 mm | |
| Power output | 54 bhp (40 kW) @ 3,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 120 lb·ft (163 Nm) @ 1,600 rpm | |
| Fuel system | SU Carburettor (Type H4) | |
| Emissions standard | Not applicable (pre-regulation era) | |
| Compression ratio | 6.8:1 | |
| Cooling system | Thermosyphon water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Gear-driven camshaft | |
| Oil type | 20W-50 mineral oil (SAE J300) | |
| Dry weight | 140 kg |
The 16 L – Petrol delivers consistent torque for light towing and off-road use but requires careful attention to cooling system maintenance in demanding conditions. Use of 20W-50 mineral oil is essential due to the engine's clearances and lack of modern filtration. The SU H4 carburettor must be manually adjusted for altitude and temperature variations. The thermosyphon cooling system lacks a water pump, so prolonged idling or uphill climbs can lead to overheating and head warping. Operators should carry spare belts, points, and plugs for field repairs. Later models replaced this unit with more thermally stable engines, reflecting incremental improvements in reliability.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 20W-50 mineral oil (Land Rover SIB 1958-11). Modern multi-grades not recommended due to seal and pump compatibility.
Emissions: No emissions certification applies; vehicles from this era are exempt under VCA UK Historic Vehicle guidelines.
Power Ratings: Measured under pre-SAE gross standards. Output reflects uninstalled engine with no accessories (Land Rover Group PT-1958).
Land Rover Technical Information System (TIS): Docs LR-A160, LR-C163, LR-T164, SIB 1958-11
VCA Historical Vehicle Classification Guidelines
SAE International: J300 Engine Oil Viscosity Classification
The Land Rover 16 L – Petrol was used across Land Rover's Series II platform with longitudinal mounting and no licensed production. This engine received no major adaptations during its production run and was phased out in 1961 with the introduction of the 2.25L petrol engine, creating a clear interchange boundary. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine number stamped on the top face of the cylinder block, just forward of the carburettor mounting (Land Rover TIS LR-ID105). The prefix "16L" indicates the engine type. Visually, the 16 L – Petrol features a cast iron block with external breathers and a prominent SU carburettor on the right side. It lacks a water pump, distinguishing it from later forced-circulation engines. Critical differentiation from successor units: The 16 L has a flat front timing cover and gear-driven cam, whereas the 2.25L engine introduced in 1961 uses a different block and timing layout. Service parts are not interchangeable with later engines due to fundamental design differences.
The 16 L – Petrol's primary reliability risk is cylinder head warping under sustained load, with elevated incidence in hot climates or prolonged towing use. Land Rover field reports from 1959 noted a significant number of early engines suffering head gasket failure due to thermal cycling, while VCA historic vehicle assessments highlight cooling system neglect as a leading cause of failure. Lack of a water pump and low coolant flow increase cylinder head stress, making regular maintenance and proper coolant mixture critical.
Analysis derived from Land Rover technical bulletins (1958-1961) and UK DVSA historic vehicle failure statistics (2015-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about LAND-ROVER 16L.
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LAND-ROVER Official Site
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EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
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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
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VCA Certification Portal
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