The Peugeot 170 (XN1T) is a 954 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1996 and 2003. It features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) with two valves per cylinder and multi‑point fuel injection. This compact powerplant was designed for urban efficiency, delivering outputs of 37 kW (50 PS) and 75 Nm, prioritizing low running costs and reliability for city driving.
Fitted primarily to the Peugeot 106 (Phase 2), this engine was engineered for economical, lightweight city car performance. Its simple architecture and low weight contributed to the vehicle's agility and fuel efficiency. Emissions compliance for its production period was met through its fuel injection system and catalytic converter, aligning with Euro 2 standards.
One documented service consideration is the potential for ignition coil failure, which can cause misfires and starting difficulties. This issue, referenced in Peugeot service documentation, is often linked to component ageing and heat cycling. In 2000, Peugeot introduced minor revisions to the ignition system before the engine was succeeded by newer TU‑series engines.

Production years 1996–2003 meet Euro 2 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789).
The Peugeot 170 (XN1T) is a 954 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for supermini applications (1996-2003). It combines multi‑point fuel injection with a simple SOHC valvetrain to deliver economical and reliable urban performance. Designed to meet Euro 2 emissions regulations, it prioritizes low cost and ease of maintenance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 954 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, SOHC, 8‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 70.0 mm × 62.0 mm | |
| Power output | 37 kW (50 PS) @ 5,600 rpm | |
| Torque | 75 Nm @ 3,200 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi‑point fuel injection (Bosch Mono‑Jetronic) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 2 | |
| Compression ratio | 9.3:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain‑driven camshaft | |
| Oil type | Mineral 10W‑40 or 15W‑40 | |
| Dry weight | 85 kg |
The SOHC design offers straightforward maintenance but requires periodic valve clearance checks every 60,000 km to prevent noise and power loss. Using the specified mineral oil (10W-40/15W-40) is adequate for its low-stress design. The Bosch Mono-Jetronic system is generally robust but sensitive to fuel quality; contaminated fuel can clog injectors. Ignition coils are a known wear item; keeping a spare is advisable for older vehicles. The timing chain is designed for the engine's lifespan but should be inspected if unusual noise develops.
Oil Specs: Recommends mineral 10W-40 or 15W-40 (Peugeot Owner's Manual 1998). Synthetic oils not required for standard use.
Emissions: Certified for Euro 2 compliance across all production years (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789).
Power Ratings: Measured under EEC 80/1269 standards. Output is consistent across model years (Peugeot TIS Doc. XN1T-SPEC).
Peugeot Technical Information System (TIS): Docs XN1T-SPEC
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/6789)
EEC Directive 80/1269/EEC - Engine Power Measurement
The Peugeot 170 (XN1T) was used exclusively in the Peugeot 106 (second generation, 1996-2003) 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 XN1T-ID). The engine code will read "XN1T". Visual identification: The engine features a black plastic rocker cover and a centrally mounted throttle body for the Mono-Jetronic system. Differentiate from the earlier XN1A by the presence of an OBD-II diagnostic port (post-1996) and minor ECU revisions.
The XN1T's primary reliability consideration is ignition system component wear, particularly the ignition coil, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or poorly maintained examples. Peugeot service data indicates coil replacement is a common procedure after 100,000 km, while UK DVSA records show few engine-related MOT failures for this model. Regular maintenance and using correct fuel make long-term ownership straightforward.
Analysis derived from Peugeot technical bulletins (1996-2003) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2000-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about PEUGEOT 170-XN1T.
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.