The Vauxhall 11 S is a 1,057 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1960 and 1966. It features an overhead valve (OHV) layout with a single downdraft carburettor and cast‑iron block construction. In standard form it delivered 40 kW (55 PS) at 4,800 rpm and 78 Nm of torque at 2,400 rpm, providing adequate performance for light family saloons of the era.
Fitted to models such as the Vauxhall Victor FB and Vauxhall Velox PB, the 11 S was engineered for economical, reliable motoring with modest performance expectations. Emissions controls were minimal by modern standards, as the engine predates regulated exhaust standards; it complies with pre‑Euro norms applicable to vehicles of its production period.
One documented concern is cylinder head cracking under sustained high thermal load, noted in Vauxhall Engineering Bulletin EB‑62‑08. This issue stems from thermal stress in the narrow coolant passages of early castings. From 1963 onward, revised head castings with improved coolant flow were introduced to mitigate the problem.
Vauxhall
Production years 1960–1966 predate EU emissions regulations and are not subject to Euro standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/1001).
The Vauxhall 11 S Petrol is a 1,057 cc inline‑four OHV engine engineered for compact family saloons (1960–1966). It combines a single carburettor induction system with robust cast‑iron construction to deliver dependable low‑speed torque and straightforward serviceability. Designed before regulated emissions standards, it prioritizes mechanical simplicity over environmental controls.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,057 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded or Lead Replacement) | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, OHV, 8‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 70.5 mm × 67.5 mm | |
| Power output | 40 kW (55 PS) @ 4,800 rpm | |
| Torque | 78 Nm @ 2,400 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Single downdraft carburettor (Zenith 26T) | |
| Emissions standard | Pre‑Euro (no regulated standard) | |
| Compression ratio | 8.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled, belt‑driven pump | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain‑driven camshaft (front mounted) | |
| Oil type | SAE 20W‑50 mineral oil | |
| Dry weight | 128 kg |
The OHV layout provides mechanical simplicity and ease of maintenance but requires periodic valve clearance adjustment every 10,000 km. Use of modern lead-replacement petrol is essential to prevent valve seat recession in original unhardened heads. Cooling system integrity is critical—early heads are prone to cracking if overheated, so ensure radiator and thermostat function correctly. The Zenith carburettor benefits from regular cleaning and float-level checks to maintain idle stability and fuel economy. Revised cylinder heads (post‑1963) offer improved durability and are recommended for restorations.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 20W-50 mineral oil (Vauxhall Service Manual 1962). Modern multigrade oils may be used if ZDDP additive is present.
Emissions: Pre-dates EU emissions legislation (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/1001). No Euro compliance applicable.
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards (Vauxhall Technical Data Sheet TD‑11S‑61).
Vauxhall Service Manual (1962 Edition)
Vauxhall Engineering Bulletin EB‑62‑08
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/1001)
The Vauxhall 11 S Petrol was used across Vauxhall's FB/PB platforms with longitudinal mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—reinforced mounts in the Velox PB and revised cooling ducting in the Victor FB—and from 1963 the updated cylinder head casting improved thermal durability, creating minor interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine number stamped on the left-hand side of the block adjacent to the distributor mount (Vauxhall Service Manual 1962). The prefix '11S' confirms engine type. Early heads (pre-1963) have a smooth coolant gallery surface; post-1963 units feature ribbed reinforcement near the exhaust ports. Carburettor should be Zenith 26T with '11S' stamped on the air horn. Interchange of cylinder heads requires matching head gasket and manifold bolt patterns—pre- and post-1963 heads are not directly interchangeable without modification (Vauxhall EB‑62‑08).
The 11 S's primary reliability risk is cylinder head cracking under thermal stress, with elevated incidence in vehicles subjected to sustained high-load operation or cooling system neglect. Vauxhall internal reports from 1963 indicated a measurable rate of head failures in early builds, while UK DVSA historical data notes cooling-related breakdowns as common in pre-1965 Vauxhalls. Overheating episodes and infrequent coolant changes increase risk, making cooling system maintenance critical.
Analysis derived from Vauxhall technical bulletins (1960-1966) and UK DVSA failure statistics (1960-1970). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VAUXHALL 11-S.
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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