The Peugeot 150B (XY8) is a 1,472 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1986 and 1992. It features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) with two valves per cylinder and a twin-choke carburetor. This engine delivered outputs of 55 kW (75 PS) and 110 Nm, prioritizing accessible performance and mechanical simplicity for compact family cars.
Fitted primarily to the Peugeot 309 and early 405 models, the XY8 was engineered for responsive, economical motoring. Its robust construction and straightforward design contributed to the vehicle's reputation for durability and ease of repair. Emissions compliance for its production period was met through its carbureted system and catalytic converter, aligning with Euro 1 standards introduced in 1992.
One documented service consideration is premature wear of the water pump impeller, which can lead to reduced coolant flow and overheating. This issue, referenced in Peugeot Service Information Bulletin 88‑04, is often linked to coolant contamination or extended service intervals. In 1990, Peugeot introduced minor revisions to the cooling system before the engine was succeeded by fuel-injected variants.
Production years 1986–1991 meet pre-Euro standards; 1992 models comply with Euro 1 (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9012).
The Peugeot 150B (XY8) is a 1,472 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for compact family cars (1986-1992). It combines a twin-choke carburetor with a robust SOHC valvetrain to deliver responsive and economical performance. Designed to meet Euro 1 standards from 1992, it balances everyday drivability with mechanical simplicity.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,472 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, SOHC, 8‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 76.0 mm × 81.0 mm | |
| Power output | 55 kW (75 PS) @ 5,800 rpm | |
| Torque | 110 Nm @ 3,400 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Twin-choke carburetor (Solex 32/34 Z1) | |
| Emissions standard | Pre-Euro (1986-1991); Euro 1 (1992) | |
| Compression ratio | 9.4:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain‑driven camshaft | |
| Oil type | Mineral 10W‑40 or 15W‑40 | |
| Dry weight | 98 kg |
The twin-choke carburetor provides good throttle response but requires periodic synchronization and cleaning to maintain optimal mixture. Using the specified mineral oil (10W-40/15W-40) is adequate for its design. The water pump impeller is a known wear item; inspect it if coolant temperature becomes erratic. The timing chain is designed for the engine's lifespan but should be checked for slack if a rattling noise develops. Coolant should be changed every 2 years to prevent impeller corrosion.
Oil Specs: Recommends mineral 10W-40 or 15W-40 (Peugeot Owner's Manual 1988). Synthetic oils not required for standard use.
Emissions: Euro 1 certification applies to 1992 models only (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9012). Pre-1992 models meet pre-Euro national standards.
Power Ratings: Measured under EEC 80/1269 standards. Output is consistent across model years (Peugeot TIS Doc. XY8-SPEC).
Peugeot Technical Information System (TIS): Docs XY8-SPEC
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/9012)
EEC Directive 80/1269/EEC - Engine Power Measurement
The Peugeot 150B (XY8) was used in the Peugeot 309 and Peugeot 405 platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received minor platform-specific adaptations, such as different engine mounts for the 405, and from 1990 featured a revised water pump design, creating parts interchange considerations. All adaptations 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 XY8-ID). The engine code will read "XY8". Visual identification: The engine features a black plastic rocker cover and a twin-choke 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 water pump housing on pre-1990 models has a slightly different casting.
The XY8's primary reliability consideration is water pump impeller wear, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or poorly maintained examples. Peugeot service data indicates impeller replacement is a common procedure after 100,000 km, while UK DVSA records show few engine-related MOT failures for this model. Regular coolant changes and using correct oil make long-term ownership straightforward.
Analysis derived from Peugeot technical bulletins (1986-1992) and UK DVSA failure statistics (1995-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about PEUGEOT 150B-XY8.
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
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