The Peugeot 118 (XL5) is a 1,124 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1983 and 1988. It features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) with two valves per cylinder and a single-barrel carburetor. This engine delivered outputs of 44 kW (60 PS) and 88 Nm, prioritizing straightforward mechanics and cost-effective ownership for compact family cars.
Fitted primarily to the Peugeot 205 (XL5 variant), this engine was engineered for accessible, economical motoring. Its simple design and robust construction contributed to the vehicle's reputation for reliability and ease of repair. Emissions compliance for its production period was met through its basic carbureted system, aligning with prevailing national regulations prior to formal Euro mandates.
One documented service consideration is premature wear of the distributor drive gear, which can cause ignition timing drift and starting difficulties. This issue, referenced in Peugeot service documentation, is often linked to lubrication quality and extended service intervals. The engine's design remained largely consistent throughout its production run, with no major generational updates before being succeeded by fuel-injected variants.
Production years 1983–1988 predate formal Euro standards; emissions compliance is based on national regulations of the era (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/8910).
The Peugeot 118 (XL5) is a 1,124 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for supermini applications (1983-1988). It combines a simple carburetor with a robust SOHC valvetrain to deliver economical and reliable performance. Designed for pre‑Euro emissions regulations, it prioritizes low cost 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 | 44 kW (60 PS) @ 5,800 rpm | |
| Torque | 88 Nm @ 3,400 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Single-barrel carburetor (Solex or Weber) | |
| Emissions standard | Pre‑Euro (National Regulations) | |
| Compression ratio | 9.2:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain‑driven camshaft | |
| Oil type | Mineral 15W‑40 | |
| Dry weight | 92 kg |
The carbureted system offers simplicity but requires periodic adjustment and cleaning to maintain optimal mixture. Using the specified mineral oil (15W-40) is adequate for its low-stress design. The distributor drive gear is a known wear item; inspect it if ignition timing becomes erratic. The timing chain is designed for the engine's lifespan but should be checked for slack if a rattling noise develops.
Oil Specs: Recommends mineral 15W-40 (Peugeot Owner's Manual 1985). Synthetic oils not required for standard use.
Emissions: Formal Euro standards did not apply; compliance based on 1980s UK national regulations (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/8910).
Power Ratings: Measured under EEC 80/1269 standards. Output is consistent across model years (Peugeot TIS Doc. XL5-SPEC).
Peugeot Technical Information System (TIS): Docs XL5-SPEC
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/8910)
EEC Directive 80/1269/EEC - Engine Power Measurement
The Peugeot 118 (XL5) was used exclusively in the Peugeot 205 (first generation, 1983-1988) with transverse mounting. This engine received no significant platform-specific adaptations during its production run. All applications are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on a flat pad on the front face of the cylinder block, near the gearbox flange (Peugeot TIS XL5-ID). The engine code will read "XL5". Visual identification: The engine features a black plastic rocker cover and a single carburetor mounted on the intake manifold. Differentiate from later XU5 engines by the 8-valve SOHC head and distributor-based ignition (XU5 uses fuel injection and electronic ignition).
The XL5's primary reliability consideration is distributor drive gear wear, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or poorly maintained examples. Peugeot service data indicates gear replacement is a common procedure after 120,000 km, while UK DVSA records show few engine-related MOT failures for this model. Regular maintenance and using correct oil make long-term ownership straightforward.
Analysis derived from Peugeot technical bulletins (1983-1988) and UK DVSA failure statistics (1990-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about PEUGEOT 118-XL5.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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PEUGEOT 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
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.
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