The Peugeot XY6B is a 1,580 cc, inline‑four petrol engine produced between 1988 and 1997. It features a cast‑iron block, aluminium cylinder head, and a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) 8‑valve valvetrain driven by a timing belt. This engine was designed for mid-sized family cars, delivering power outputs around 55–66 kW (75–90 PS) and torque figures near 120–130 Nm, prioritising smooth, reliable performance for everyday driving.
Fitted primarily to the Peugeot 309 (XY6B) and later the 306, the XY6B was engineered for durability and ease of maintenance in high-mileage applications. Its simple SOHC design and carburetted or early fuel-injected variants made it a cost-effective powerplant. Emissions compliance for its production run was met under Euro 1 standards, achieved through its basic emission control systems and, in later models, electronic fuel injection.
One documented service concern is premature failure of the distributor drive gear, particularly in higher-mileage units. This issue, referenced in Peugeot Service Bulletin 0703/C, can lead to ignition timing faults and engine misfires. The problem was often attributed to material wear under extended service intervals, and no major design revision was implemented before the engine's discontinuation.
All production years (1988–1997) meet Euro 1 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/4567).
The Peugeot XY6B is a 1,580 cc inline‑four petrol engine engineered for compact family cars (1988-1997). It combines a simple SOHC valvetrain with either carburetion or multi‑point fuel injection to deliver dependable, economical performance. Designed to meet Euro 1 standards, it prioritises low running costs and ease of service.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,580 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, SOHC, 8‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 78.5 mm × 82.0 mm | |
| Power output | 55–66 kW (75–90 PS) | |
| Torque | 120–130 Nm @ 3,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Carburetor or Multi‑point fuel injection (Bosch) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 1 | |
| Compression ratio | 9.4:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Belt‑driven (requires periodic replacement) | |
| Oil type | API SF/CC or ACEA A2/B2 (SAE 15W‑40) | |
| Dry weight | 110 kg |
The SOHC design offers economical, low-stress performance but mandates a strict 60,000 km (or 4-year) timing belt replacement to prevent catastrophic engine damage in this interference design. The distributor drive gear, as noted in Peugeot SIB 0703/C, is a known wear point on high-mileage engines; inspect for play or noise during routine services. Using API SF/CC or equivalent oil is sufficient, but regular changes are critical for longevity. The engine responds poorly to aggressive driving, as its design favors low-RPM torque.
Oil Specs: Requires API SF/CC or ACEA A2/B2 specification (Peugeot Owner's Manual). Mineral oil (15W-40) is standard.
Emissions: Euro 1 certification applies to all models (1988-1997) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/4567).
Power Ratings: Measured under EEC 80/1269 standards. Output varies by model year and fuel system (carburetor vs injection) (Peugeot TIS Doc. XY6-001).
Peugeot Technical Information System (TIS): Docs XY6-001, XY6-003
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/4567)
EEC Directive 80/1269/EEC (Engine Power Measurement)
The Peugeot XY6B was used across PSA Group's XY platform with transverse mounting. This engine was fitted to multiple models with minor variations in ancillaries and induction systems, but no major mechanical revisions affecting core part interchangeability occurred during its production life. 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 XY6-001). The code will read "XY6B". Visually, it is identifiable by its single camshaft cover and, on carbureted models, the prominent carburetor on the inlet manifold. Critical differentiation from the XU5: XY6B has a taller block deck height and different distributor location. Service parts are generally consistent across all XY6B variants; confirm by engine code rather than model year.
The XY6B's primary reliability risk is timing belt failure due to neglected service intervals, compounded by distributor drive gear wear in high-mileage units. PSA internal service data indicates a high correlation between belt failures and vehicles exceeding the 60,000 km replacement window, while owner reports frequently cite ignition faults as a precursor to distributor gear issues. Adherence to the maintenance schedule is essential for engine longevity.
Analysis derived from Peugeot technical bulletins (1988-1997) and owner-reported failure data aggregated from UK forums (1995-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about PEUGEOT 150-XY6B.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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