The Peugeot XK5 is a 1,580 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1986 and 1992. It features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) driven by a timing belt, and two valves per cylinder. In standard applications, it produces 65 kW (88 PS) and 130 Nm of torque, offering dependable and economical performance for compact vehicles.
Fitted primarily to the 309 and 405, the XK5 was engineered for cost-effective ownership, fuel efficiency, and ease of maintenance in the European market. Emissions compliance for its era was achieved through a carbureted or single-point fuel injection system and a catalytic converter, meeting pre-Euro or early Euro 1 standards depending on model year.
A documented concern involves premature wear of the distributor drive gear, which can lead to ignition timing errors and misfires. This issue, referenced in Peugeot Technical Note TN‑05/1988, is often linked to material fatigue in early production units. Later models incorporated a revised gear design for improved durability.
Peugeot
Production years 1986–1992 meet pre-Euro or early Euro 1 standards depending on model year and market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5674).
The Peugeot XK5 is a 1,580 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for compact sedans and hatchbacks (1986-1992). It combines a simple SOHC valvetrain with either carburetion or single-point injection to deliver predictable, economical performance. Designed for its era's emissions standards, it prioritizes mechanical simplicity and low running costs.
| 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 | 65 kW (88 PS) | |
| Torque | 130 Nm @ 3,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Carburetor or Single-Point Injection (SPI) | |
| Emissions standard | Pre-Euro / Early Euro 1 (market-dependent) | |
| Compression ratio | 9.2:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Belt-driven | |
| Oil type | Mineral 15W‑40 | |
| Dry weight | 110 kg |
The SOHC design offers mechanical simplicity but requires strict adherence to 60,000 km timing belt replacement intervals to prevent catastrophic failure. The distributor drive gear is a known weak point; any signs of ignition misfire or timing drift should be investigated immediately per TN-05/1988. Carbureted versions demand regular adjustment and cleaning for optimal performance. Use only mineral 15W-40 oil as specified, as synthetic oils were not formulated for these older engine seals.
Oil Specs: Requires mineral 15W-40 specification for compatibility with engine seals (Peugeot Owner's Manual 1988).
Emissions: Certification varies from pre-Euro to early Euro 1 depending on model year and market (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5674).
Power Ratings: Measured under ECE R85 standards. Output is consistent across model range (Peugeot Technical Note TN-05/1988).
Peugeot Technical Information System: Workshop Manual 0515.XK, TN-05/1988
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5674)
The Peugeot XK5 was used across Peugeot's PF1 platform with transverse mounting. This engine received no major platform-specific adaptations, ensuring broad parts interchangeability across its model range. All service procedures are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front face of the cylinder block, near the gearbox flange (Peugeot Workshop Manual 0515.XK). The engine code 'XK5' is also listed on the vehicle's build plate, typically found in the engine bay. Visually, it can be identified by its silver rocker cover and the presence of a distributor on the rear of the cylinder head (early models) or a single fuel injector on the throttle body (later SPI models). Differentiate from the higher-powered XU5 (105 PS) by checking the power output in the vehicle registration document or the number of spark plug leads (XK5 has a single distributor cap).
The XK5's primary reliability risk is distributor drive gear wear, with elevated incidence in vehicles exceeding 100,000 km. Peugeot internal reports linked a significant number of failures to material fatigue in early production units, while workshop data shows carburetor faults are common in neglected examples. Adherence to the timing belt service schedule and prompt diagnosis of ignition faults is critical to prevent drivability issues.
Analysis derived from Peugeot technical bulletins (1986-1992) and workshop repair data. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about PEUGEOT XK5.
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