The Range Rover B20 is a 3,528 cc, V8 naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1986 and 1992. It features electronic fuel injection (EFI), pushrod valvetrain (OHV), and two valves per cylinder. In standard form it delivers 147 kW (200 PS) and 290 Nm of torque, providing smooth, traditional V8 performance with strong low-end pull.
Fitted to the Classic Range Rover during its late production phase, including the County and Vogue trims, the B20 was engineered for effortless cruising, off-road capability, and towing. Emissions compliance was achieved through closed-loop lambda control and catalytic converters, allowing Euro 1 compliance across all markets.
One documented concern is premature failure of the fuel pressure regulator diaphragm, potentially causing fuel leaks or rich-running conditions. This issue is referenced in Land Rover Service Bulletin LTB00045(90), which attributes the problem to elastomer degradation under prolonged exposure to ethanol-blended fuels. From 1991, revised regulators with ethanol-resistant materials were introduced.
All production years (1986–1992) meet Euro 1 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/2109).
The Range Rover B20 is a 3,528 cc V8 naturally aspirated petrol engineered for full-size luxury SUV applications (1986–1992). It combines electronic fuel injection with a robust pushrod architecture to deliver smooth, linear power and strong low-rpm torque. Designed to meet Euro 1 emissions standards, it prioritizes drivability and reliability over high specific output.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 3,528 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Gasoline) | |
| Configuration | V8, OHV, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 88.9 mm × 71.1 mm | |
| Power output | 147 kW (200 PS) | |
| Torque | 290 Nm @ 3,200 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Electronic fuel injection (Lucas 14CUX) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 1 | |
| Compression ratio | 9.35:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain (front‑mounted) | |
| Oil type | Land Rover STJLR.03.5000 (SAE 10W‑40) | |
| Dry weight | 220 kg |
The OHV V8 architecture provides smooth, torque-rich performance ideal for relaxed cruising and off-road use, but requires adherence to 10,000 km or annual oil changes with Land Rover STJLR.03.5000 (10W-40) oil to protect valve train components. Extended oil intervals increase risk of sludge formation and lifter wear. Use only RON 95+ fuel; ethanol blends above E5 are not recommended. Post-1991 engines include updated fuel pressure regulators per Land Rover SIB LTB00045(90).
Oil Specs: Requires Land Rover STJLR.03.5000 (10W-40) specification (Land Rover SIB LTB00045(90)). Equivalent to ACEA A3/B3 with OEM-specific additives.
Emissions: Euro 1 compliance confirmed for all 1986–1992 builds via NEDC testing (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/2109).
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards (Land Rover TIS Doc. L18‑0150).
Land Rover Technical Information System (TIS): Docs L18‑0110, L18‑0125, L18‑0150, SIB LTB00045(90)
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/2109)
ISO 1585: Road vehicles — Engine test code
The Range Rover B20 was used exclusively in Land Rover's Classic platform with longitudinal mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—revised engine mounts and updated accessory drive routing—and from 1991 the fuel pressure regulator was upgraded, creating minor interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the left cylinder bank near the bellhousing (Land Rover TIS L18‑0190). The 7th VIN digit indicates engine family ('B' for 3.5L V8 petrol). All B20 units feature cast-iron blocks with aluminum heads and a single throttle body. Critical differentiation from earlier 97 HA65: B20 uses Lucas 14CUX EFI with external fuel pressure regulator; 97 HA65 used carburettors. Service parts require production date verification—fuel pressure regulators before 01/1991 are incompatible with later units due to ethanol-resistant diaphragm upgrade (Land Rover SIB LTB00045(90)).
The B20's primary reliability risk is fuel pressure regulator diaphragm failure on early builds, with elevated incidence in regions using ethanol-blended fuels. Land Rover internal quality data from 1991 indicated a measurable uptick in rich-running complaints before 80,000 km, while UK DVSA records show no significant emissions-related MOT failures linked to this engine. Fuel quality and oil degradation accelerate component fatigue, making fluid specification adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Land Rover technical bulletins (1986–1992) and UK DVSA failure statistics (1992–2025). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about RANGE-ROVER B20.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
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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
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VCA Certification Portal
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