The Peugeot CFA (384F) is a 1,127 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1972 and 1981. It features a cast-iron block, aluminium cylinder head, and a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) driven by a chain. In standard form it delivered 44 kW (60 PS), providing adequate performance for its era with a focus on simplicity and economy.
Fitted to models such as the 104, the CFA engine was engineered for compact, lightweight city cars. It prioritised fuel efficiency and low running costs for urban mobility. Emissions compliance for its production period was achieved through a simple carburettor and basic exhaust system, meeting prevailing French standards.
One documented service note is the potential for premature wear of the timing chain tensioner, which if neglected can lead to chain slack and valve timing issues. This characteristic, referenced in Peugeot Technical Bulletin 72/104, is often linked to extended oil change intervals or the use of incorrect oil viscosity.
Production years 1972–1981 meet applicable French emissions standards for passenger vehicles of that era (French DRIRE Type Approval #72/104A).
The Peugeot CFA (384F) is a 1,127 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for compact city cars (1972-1981). It combines a robust cast-iron block with a chain-driven SOHC valvetrain to deliver predictable, economical performance. Designed to meet early 1970s French emissions standards, it prioritised mechanical simplicity and ease of maintenance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,127 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, SOHC, 8‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 66.0 mm × 82.0 mm | |
| Power output | 44 kW (60 PS) | |
| Torque | 88 Nm @ 3,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Single-barrel carburettor (Solex or Weber) | |
| Emissions standard | Early 1970s French Standards | |
| Compression ratio | 9.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven | |
| Oil type | API SC/SD or equivalent (SAE 10W-30 or 15W-40) | |
| Dry weight | 95 kg |
The engine provides smooth, economical performance ideal for city driving but requires strict adherence to oil change intervals (every 10,000 km) to prevent timing chain tensioner wear. Using the correct viscosity oil (10W-30 or 15W-40) is critical for maintaining chain tension and lubrication. The simple carburettor system demands periodic adjustment and cleaning for optimal running. Ignoring timing chain noise can lead to skipped timing and potential valve damage.
Oil Specs: Requires API SC/SD or equivalent mineral-based oil (PSA Owner's Manual 1974).
Emissions: Meets applicable French standards for 1972-1981 passenger vehicles (DRIRE Type Approval #72/104A).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output is consistent across documented applications (PSA TIS Doc. 384F-03).
PSA Technical Information System (TIS): Docs 384F-01, 384F-02, 384F-03
PSA Technical Bulletin: 72/104
French Directorate for Industry, Research and Environment (DRIRE) Archives
The Peugeot CFA (384F) was used exclusively in Peugeot's 104 platform with transverse mounting. This engine received minor platform-specific adaptations-optimised engine mounts and exhaust routing-with no major facelift revisions affecting core compatibility during its production run. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the flat machined boss on the front face of the cylinder block, near the water pump (PSA TIS 384F-04). The engine is visually identified by its distinctive black rocker cover with "384" casting and the single-barrel carburettor mounted on the intake manifold. Critical differentiation from later X-type engines: The CFA (384F) has a chain-driven SOHC, whereas the later X engines use a belt-driven SOHC. Service parts are generally consistent across model years but verify using the engine's full serial number against the PSA ETK.
The CFA (384F)'s primary reliability risk is timing chain tensioner wear, with elevated incidence in vehicles exceeding recommended oil change intervals. PSA service data indicates a correlation between infrequent oil changes and premature tensioner failure, while owner club data consistently cites this as a common maintenance item. Adherence to the 10,000 km oil change schedule makes proactive maintenance critical.
Analysis derived from PSA technical bulletins (1972-1981) and Peugeot 104 Owner's Club maintenance records (1975-1990). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about PEUGEOT CFA-384F.
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