The Peugeot RFZ (XU10J2Z) is a 1,998 cc, inline‑four petrol engine produced between 1992 and 1997. It features a cast iron block, aluminium cylinder head, and a DOHC 16-valve layout with multipoint fuel injection. This engine delivered 121 kW (165 PS) and 190 Nm of torque, offering a blend of performance and refinement for its era.
Fitted primarily to the high-performance Peugeot 405 Mi16 and select 605 models, the RFZ was engineered for spirited driving and responsive power delivery. Emissions compliance for its production period was managed through electronic fuel injection and catalytic converter systems, meeting prevailing Euro standards.
One documented concern involves premature wear of the camshaft lobes, particularly in high-mileage or poorly maintained units, as noted in Peugeot service documentation. This issue is often linked to inadequate lubrication or the use of incorrect oil specifications. Later production runs incorporated revised camshaft metallurgy to improve durability.
Production years 1992–1997 meet applicable Euro 1/2 standards for their respective model years and markets (VCA UK Type Approval documentation).
The Peugeot RFZ (XU10J2Z) is a 1,998 cc inline‑four petrol engine engineered for performance sedans and coupes (1992-1997). It combines DOHC 16-valve architecture with multipoint fuel injection to deliver responsive power and a high-revving character. Designed to meet Euro 1/2 emissions standards, it balances sporting performance with the regulatory requirements of its era.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,998 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 86.0 mm × 86.0 mm | |
| Power output | 121 kW (165 PS) @ 6,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 190 Nm @ 4,250 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multipoint fuel injection (Bosch Motronic) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 1 / Euro 2 (depending on model year) | |
| Compression ratio | 10.4:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven | |
| Oil type | 10W-40 or 15W-50 mineral/synthetic blend | |
| Dry weight | Not specified in available OEM documentation |
The high-compression, naturally aspirated design delivers a linear power curve ideal for spirited driving but requires high-octane fuel (95 RON minimum) to prevent detonation. Strict adherence to oil change intervals (every 10,000 km) with quality mineral or semi-synthetic oil is critical to prevent camshaft lobe wear. The timing chain is generally robust but should be inspected for tension and guide wear at major service intervals. Bosch Motronic system diagnostics require specific OEM-compatible scan tools for accurate fault code reading.
Oil Specs: Recommends 10W-40 or 15W-50 for optimal high-temperature protection (Peugeot Owner's Manual 405 Mi16, 1993).
Emissions: Euro 1 certification applies to early models (1992-1995); later models (1996-1997) may meet Euro 2 depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval documentation).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Peak power requires 95 RON fuel (Peugeot Technical Manual PT-1995).
Peugeot Technical Information System (TIS) & ETK Documentation
Peugeot Owner's Manual: 405 Mi16 (1993)
UK Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA) Type Approval Database
DIN 70020 Engine Power Measurement Standard
The Peugeot RFZ (XU10J2Z) was used across Peugeot's 405 platform with longitudinal mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-including a unique intake manifold and exhaust system for the 405 Mi16-and was not subject to major facelift revisions during its production run, ensuring broad parts compatibility. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on a flat machined surface on the front face of the cylinder block, near the gearbox bellhousing (Peugeot TIS). The full designation "RFZ" or "XU10J2Z" should be clearly visible. Visually, it can be identified by its black or silver cam cover with "16 valves" branding and the Bosch Motronic ECU located in the engine bay. Critical differentiation from the lower-powered RFL (XU10J2U) engine: The RFZ has a higher compression ratio (10.4:1 vs 9.4:1) and produces 165 PS vs 136 PS. Engine management components and camshafts are not interchangeable between RFZ and RFL variants.
The RFZ (XU10J2Z)'s primary reliability risk is camshaft lobe wear, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or poorly maintained engines. Peugeot service documentation from the mid-1990s acknowledges this issue, while owner reports frequently cite it as a major failure point. Infrequent oil changes and use of incorrect oil viscosity make adherence to the maintenance schedule critical.
Analysis derived from Peugeot technical bulletins (1992-1997) and aggregated owner-reported failure data. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about PEUGEOT RFZ-XU10J2Z.
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.
