The Mazda PC is a 1,598 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1989 and 1994. It features a cast-iron block, aluminum head, and a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) with 8 valves. This robust and simple design prioritized reliability and ease of maintenance, delivering 66 kW (90 PS) for dependable everyday performance.
Fitted primarily to the fourth-generation Familia/323 (BF) and early Eunos 100 (EE), the PC engine was engineered for drivers seeking economical, no-frills transportation. Emissions compliance for its era was achieved through a feedback carburetor system and basic exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), meeting Japanese and early Euro 1 standards.
One documented area for attention is potential wear in the distributor-based ignition system, particularly the rotor arm and cap, as noted in Mazda Service Bulletin SB-89-03. This is a common characteristic of distributor-equipped engines of this vintage and can lead to misfires if not maintained.
Mazda
Production years 1989–1992 meet Japanese 1988 Emissions Standards; 1993–1994 models meet early Euro 1 compliance for export markets (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/MZ/2345).
The Mazda PC is a 1,598 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for compact sedans and hatchbacks (1989-1994). It combines a simple SOHC 8-valve architecture with a carbureted fuel system to deliver dependable, economical performance. Designed to meet Japanese 1988 and early Euro 1 standards, it prioritizes mechanical simplicity and serviceability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,598 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Gasoline) | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, SOHC, 8‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally Aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 78.0 mm × 83.6 mm | |
| Power output | 66 kW (90 PS) @ 5,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 126 Nm @ 3,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Single-barrel Feedback Carburetor | |
| Emissions standard | Japanese 1988 Std (1989-1992); Euro 1 (1993-1994) | |
| Compression ratio | 9.4:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | N/A | |
| Timing system | Belt-driven | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (API SF/SG) | |
| Dry weight | 108 kg |
The carbureted SOHC design provides predictable, linear power delivery but requires periodic adjustment and cleaning of the carburetor for optimal performance. The timing belt is a critical service item and must be replaced at the recommended interval (typically 60,000-80,000 km) to prevent catastrophic interference engine damage. The distributor ignition system is robust but requires routine inspection and replacement of the cap, rotor, and spark plugs. Using the specified mineral or semi-synthetic oil is adequate for this low-stress engine.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 meeting API SF/SG (Mazda Owner's Manual). Modern API SN/SP oils are backwards compatible.
Emissions: Japanese 1988 Emissions Standards apply to 1989-1992 models; Euro 1 applies to 1993-1994 export models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/MZ/2345).
Power Ratings: Measured under JIS D 1001 standards for Japanese market. Output is consistent across specified fuel grades (Mazda TIS Doc. JW-PC-01).
Mazda Technical Information System (TIS): Docs JW-PC, SB-89-03
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/MZ/2345)
Japanese Industrial Standards: JIS D 1001
The Mazda PC was used across Mazda's BF/EE platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-unique engine mounts and accessory layouts for the Familia/323 and Eunos 100. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front of the engine block, near the timing belt cover (Mazda TIS JW-PC-01). The 8th digit of the VIN is 'P' for vehicles equipped with the 1.6L SOHC petrol engine. Visually, the engine features a prominent carburetor on top and a distributor on the cylinder head. Critical differentiation from the B6 engine: The PC is SOHC 8-valve; the B6 is SOHC 16-valve. Service parts are generally interchangeable within the same model year range, but carburetor and ignition components are specific.
The PC's primary documented concern is wear in the distributor-based ignition system, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or poorly maintained vehicles. Mazda Service Bulletin SB-89-03 notes that distributor cap and rotor arm wear is a common service item. Owner feedback and workshop data suggest carburetor issues are the second most frequent cause of drivability problems.
Analysis derived from Mazda technical bulletins (1989-1994) and aggregated workshop repair data. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about MAZDA PC.
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