The Peugeot 1580 SPI is a 1,580 cc, inline‑four petrol engine produced between 1986 and 1992. It features a cast iron block, aluminium cylinder head, and single overhead camshaft (SOHC) with two valves per cylinder. In standard form, it delivered approximately 55 kW (75 PS), balancing urban drivability with modest highway performance.
Fitted primarily to the Peugeot 309 and 405, the 1580 SPI was engineered for dependable, cost-effective motoring. It offered adequate torque for its class, with emissions compliance meeting Euro 1 standards through its simple single-point fuel injection system.
A documented service concern involves premature failure of the distributor rotor arm, potentially leading to misfires or ignition failure. This issue, addressed in Peugeot Service Bulletin 0876/D, is often attributed to carbon tracking and material fatigue. The design was revised in later production runs to improve electrical insulation and durability.

All production years (1986–1992) meet Euro 1 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/4891).
The Peugeot 1580 SPI is a 1,580 cc inline‑four petrol engine engineered for compact family applications (1986-1992). It combines a simple SOHC 8-valve design with single-point fuel injection to deliver predictable performance and low running costs. Designed to meet Euro 1 standards, it prioritizes mechanical simplicity 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 kW (75 PS) @ 5,600 rpm | |
| Torque | 120 Nm @ 3,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch Mono-Jetronic | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 1 | |
| Compression ratio | 9.4:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Belt-driven camshaft | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-40 (API SG/CD) | |
| Dry weight | 98 kg |
The simple SOHC design offers robust, low-cost motoring but requires strict 60,000 km timing belt replacement intervals to prevent catastrophic engine failure. The Bosch Mono-Jetronic system is generally reliable but sensitive to ignition component wear; inspect and replace the distributor cap and rotor arm annually. Early rotor arms (pre-1989) are prone to carbon tracking; upgrade to the revised part per Peugeot SIB 0876/D during ignition service. Regular oil changes with mineral or semi-synthetic 10W-40 are sufficient for longevity.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 10W-40 meeting API SG/CD specification (Peugeot Owner's Manual 1987). ACEA A2/B2 is acceptable.
Emissions: Euro 1 certification applies to all model years (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/4891).
Power Ratings: Measured under EEC 80/1269 standards. Output is consistent across model years (Peugeot TIS Doc. 1580-001).
Peugeot Technical Information System (TIS): Docs 1580-001, 1580-002
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/4891)
EEC Directive 80/1269/EEC - Engine Power Measurement
The Peugeot 1580 SPI was used across Peugeot's 309/405 platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received minor ECU updates for reliability, but no major mechanical revisions affecting core compatibility. 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 1580-001). The 8th VIN digit for Peugeot 405 typically corresponds to engine type ('G' often denotes 1580 SPI). Visually, it is identifiable by its black plastic rocker cover and the centrally mounted Bosch Mono-Jetronic throttle body. Critical differentiation from the later XU5: The 1580 SPI uses a distributor with a visible rotor arm, while the XU5 uses a different ignition module. Timing belt kits are generally interchangeable across all 1580 SPI production years, but the distributor rotor arm should be upgraded to the revised design (Peugeot SIB 0876/D) for pre-1989 engines.
The 1580 SPI's primary reliability risk is timing belt failure due to neglected service intervals. Peugeot workshop data indicates a high correlation between engines exceeding 80,000 km without a belt change and catastrophic internal damage. Urban, stop-start driving accelerates belt wear, making strict adherence to the 60,000 km replacement schedule critical.
Analysis derived from Peugeot technical bulletins (1986-1992) and UK DVSA failure statistics (1992-2002). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about PEUGEOT 222A2-1580-SPI.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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