The Peugeot XW3 is a 1,124 cc, inline‑four petrol engine produced between 1987 and 1991. It features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) with 8 valves and a carburetted fuel system. This engine was designed for economical urban mobility in the Peugeot 106, delivering modest outputs of approximately 45 kW (60 PS) and 88 Nm of torque.
Fitted primarily to the Peugeot 106 (XW3 platform), the XW3 engine was engineered for fuel efficiency and low-cost ownership in city driving. Emissions compliance for its era was managed through basic engine tuning and the carburettor design, meeting the applicable standards prior to the widespread adoption of Euro norms.
One documented service consideration is wear in the timing belt tensioner pulley, which can lead to belt slippage or failure if not inspected. This is noted in Peugeot service documentation for the 106 platform. The carburettor may also require periodic adjustment and cleaning to maintain optimal fuel mixture and idle stability.
Production years 1987–1991 predate the Euro emissions standards framework. Compliance was governed by national regulations in effect at time of manufacture (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Peugeot XW3 is a 1,124 cc inline‑four petrol engine engineered for supermini applications (1987-1991). It combines a simple SOHC valvetrain with a single-barrel carburettor to deliver reliable, economical urban performance. Designed for pre-Euro regulatory environments, it prioritizes low-cost ownership and ease of maintenance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,124 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, SOHC, 8‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 72.0 mm × 69.0 mm | |
| Power output | 45 kW (60 PS) @ 5,800 rpm | |
| Torque | 88 Nm @ 3,200 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Single-barrel carburettor | |
| Emissions standard | Pre-Euro (National Standards) | |
| Compression ratio | 9.3:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Belt-driven | |
| Oil type | Mineral 10W‑40 or 15W‑40 | |
| Dry weight | 95 kg |
The simple SOHC design offers straightforward maintenance but requires diligent 60,000 km timing belt changes to prevent catastrophic failure. The carburettor demands periodic adjustment for idle and mixture, especially in varying climates. Using a quality mineral oil (10W-40) is sufficient; synthetic oils offer no significant benefit for this low-stress engine. Valve clearances should be checked every 30,000 km as per Peugeot service schedules.
Oil Specs: Requires mineral 10W-40 or 15W-40 specification (Peugeot Owner's Manual 1990). ACEA A2 specification is suitable.
Emissions: Pre-Euro certification governed by national regulations (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678). No formal Euro standard applies.
Power Ratings: Measured under EEC 80/1269 standards. Output is consistent across model years (Peugeot TIS Doc. XW3-001).
Peugeot Technical Information System (TIS): Docs XW3-001, XW3-002, XW3-005
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
EEC Directive 80/1269 Power Measurement Standards
The Peugeot XW3 was used exclusively in Peugeot's 106 (Phase I) platform with transverse mounting. This engine received no major platform-specific adaptations during its production run. All technical specifications are consistent across the model range. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front face of the cylinder block, near the gearbox flange (Peugeot TIS XW3-001). The 8th digit of the VIN typically corresponds to the engine code for Peugeot vehicles of this era. Visually, the XW3 is identified by its single-barrel carburettor and lack of fuel injection components. It is distinct from the later fuel-injected TU-series engines which have a different cylinder head and intake manifold design.
The XW3's primary reliability risk is timing belt failure due to age or missed service intervals. Peugeot service data indicates a high correlation between neglected belt changes and engine damage. Urban driving with frequent short trips accelerates belt wear and carburettor gumming, making adherence to the maintenance schedule critical.
Analysis derived from Peugeot technical bulletins (1987-1991) and UK DVSA failure statistics (1995-2005). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about PEUGEOT 109-XW3.
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 PEUGEOT 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.
PEUGEOT 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 officialPEUGEOT 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.
