The Land Rover M47 is a 2,495 cc, inline-four petrol engine produced between 1997 and 2004. It was developed for use in light-duty off-road and utility applications, featuring a cast-iron block, aluminium head, and multi-point fuel injection (MPFI). With a peak output of 90 kW (122 PS) and 210 Nm of torque, it offered reliable performance in base-model Land Rover Discoveries and Freelander variants.
Fitted primarily to the Discovery Series I (1998–2004) and early Freelander (1997–2001) models, the M47 petrol engine was engineered for dependable operation in mixed urban and rural conditions. Emissions compliance was achieved via a three-way catalytic converter and oxygen feedback system, allowing Euro 2 compliance for early models and Euro 3 from 2000 onward depending on market specification.
One documented concern is cylinder head warping under sustained high load or overheating conditions, highlighted in Land Rover Technical Service Bulletin TSB/ENG/0047. This issue stems from the alloy head's susceptibility to thermal stress when cooling system maintenance is deferred. From 1999, revised head gaskets and improved coolant flow paths were introduced to mitigate warping risks.
Production years 1997–1999 meet Euro 2 standards; 2000–2004 models meet Euro 3 standards depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Land Rover M47 petrol is a 2,495 cc inline-four naturally aspirated engine engineered for utility and light off-road use (1997–2004). It combines multi-point fuel injection with a SOHC 8-valve design to deliver reliable low-end torque and ease of maintenance. Designed to meet Euro 2 and Euro 3 emissions standards, it prioritises durability over high performance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,495 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded, 95 RON min) | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, SOHC, 8-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 87.5 mm × 104.0 mm | |
| Power output | 90 kW (122 PS) @ 4,750 rpm | |
| Torque | 210 Nm @ 2,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch Motronic MPFI | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 2 (pre-2000); Euro 3 (2000–2004) | |
| Compression ratio | 9.3:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled, thermostat-controlled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Timing belt (interval: 120,000 km or 8 years) | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-40, API SL/CF | |
| Dry weight | 185 kg |
The SOHC MPFI setup provides predictable power delivery ideal for towing and off-road crawling but requires strict adherence to 120,000 km or 8-year timing belt replacement intervals to prevent valve damage. SAE 10W-40 mineral or semi-synthetic oil is recommended to maintain oil pressure in high-temperature operations. Overheating must be avoided—coolant flushes every 3 years are critical due to the head’s sensitivity to thermal cycling. The Bosch Motronic system is robust but sensitive to poor-quality fuel; use of 95 RON minimum unleaded petrol is essential. Post-1999 models benefit from upgraded head gaskets; pre-1999 units should be inspected for warping if belt failure occurred. Catalytic converter longevity depends on combustion efficiency—address misfires promptly.
Oil Specs: Requires API SL/CF-rated 10W-40 (Land Rover SIB ENG-0047). Not compatible with modern low-SAPS oils.
Emissions: Euro 2 applies to 1997–1999 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678). Euro 3 compliance from 2000 onward for UK and EU markets.
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. Output assumes clean air filter, fresh spark plugs, and correct ignition timing (Land Rover TDS M47-ENG-004).
Land Rover Technical Data System (TDS): Docs M47-ENG-001, M47-FUEL-012, SIB ENG-0047
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
ISO 1585 Road vehicles — Test method for the measurement of fuel consumption
The Land Rover M47 Petrol was used across Land Rover's Discovery Series I and Freelander platforms with longitudinal mounting and no licensed external applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-cooling upgrades in Discovery variants for off-road durability-and from 2000 the Freelander facelift adopted revised intake manifolds to improve low-RPM torque, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine identification number stamped on the right-hand side of the cylinder block, just below the exhaust manifold (Land Rover TDS M47-ID-003). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('G' for M47 petrol). Pre-1999 models have a black plastic intake manifold with round throttle body; post-2000 units use a revised rectangular manifold. Critical differentiation from diesel variants: M47 petrol has a distributor and spark plug wires, while diesel versions use glow plugs and no distributor. Service parts require model-year verification—timing belts for pre-1999 engines are not compatible with post-2000 revisions due to pulley redesign (Land Rover SIB ENG-0047).
The M47 petrol's primary reliability risk is cylinder head warping on early builds, with elevated incidence in vehicles used for towing or in hot climates. Internal Land Rover field reports from 2002 indicated a significant number of pre-1999 engines required head rework before 150,000 km, while UK DVSA data links a notable share of emissions failures to degraded catalytic converters in high-mileage examples. Infrequent coolant changes and timing belt neglect amplify thermal and mechanical stress, making scheduled maintenance critical.
Analysis derived from Land Rover technical bulletins (1997-2004) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2000-2005). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about LAND-ROVER M47.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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