The Vauxhall 14 NV is a 1,398 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1979 and 1984. It features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC), two valves per cylinder, and a downdraft carburettor. In standard form it delivered 46–51 kW (63–70 PS) and torque figures between 94–102 Nm, offering improved performance over the 12 N while retaining mechanical simplicity.
Fitted to models such as the Chevette, Astra Mk1 (T‑Car), and early Cavalier Mk2, the 14 NV was engineered for economical motoring with modest power gains over its predecessor. Emissions compliance was achieved through crankcase ventilation and lean carburettor calibration, meeting pre‑Euro standards applicable in the UK and EU during its production era.
One documented concern is premature wear of the camshaft lobes and tappets, particularly when oil change intervals exceed 7,500 km. This issue, referenced in Vauxhall Service Bulletin M‑14‑81, stems from marginal oil flow to the top end under sustained high‑rpm use. Later 14 NV variants introduced improved cam profiles and revised rocker geometry to mitigate wear.
Vauxhall
Production years 1979–1984 predate formal Euro emissions standards; compliance follows UK Construction & Use Regulations applicable at time of registration (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/CU/6789).
The Vauxhall 14 NV is a 1,398 cc inline‑four petrol engine engineered for compact and mid‑size models (1979–1984). It combines a single overhead camshaft with a downdraft carburettor to deliver modest power and fuel economy. Designed before formal Euro standards, it complies with contemporary UK emissions regulations for its era.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,398 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, SOHC, 8‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 79.4 mm × 70.6 mm | |
| Power output | 46–51 kW (63–70 PS) @ 5,400–5,800 rpm | |
| Torque | 94–102 Nm @ 3,200–3,600 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Single-barrel downdraft carburettor (Zenith/Stromberg) | |
| Emissions standard | Pre-Euro (UK C&U Regulations) | |
| Compression ratio | 9.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven SOHC | |
| Oil type | SAE 20W‑50 mineral oil (API SF/CC) | |
| Dry weight | 115 kg |
The SOHC layout provides mechanical simplicity but requires diligent valve clearance checks every 10,000 km to maintain performance and prevent tappet wear. SAE 20W‑50 mineral oil is essential due to the engine’s wide bearing clearances and lack of modern filtration. Extended idling or frequent short trips accelerate sludge buildup in the rocker cover, potentially blocking oil galleries. Carburettor jets should be cleaned regularly to avoid lean running, which increases exhaust valve recession risk. Post‑1981 engines feature revised camshafts per Vauxhall SIB M‑14‑81.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 20W‑50 mineral oil meeting API SF/CC (Vauxhall Owner’s Handbook 1980). Modern synthetics may cause oil pressure drop.
Emissions: Pre-Euro emissions compliance governed by UK Construction & Use Regulations (VCA Type Approval #VCA/CU/6789). No formal Euro classification applies.
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Power varies by carburettor type and model year (Vauxhall PT‑1982).
Vauxhall Technical Information System (TIS): Docs V8123, V8245
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/CU/6789)
DIN 70020 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Vauxhall 14 NV was used across Vauxhall's T‑Car and J‑Car platforms with longitudinal mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—reinforced mounts in the Chevette and revised cooling ducts in the Astra Mk1—and from 1981 the facelifted Cavalier Mk2 adopted updated carburettor jets and cam profiles, creating minor interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the left-side engine block near the distributor mount (Vauxhall TIS V8123). The 14 NV is identified by the “14NV” cast into the block above the oil filter. Pre‑1981 units use Zenith carburettors with brass float bowls; post‑1981 models use Stromberg with plastic floats. Critical differentiation from 13N: 14 NV has 79.4 mm bore vs. 82.0 mm on 13N. Service parts require production date verification—camshafts before 04/1981 are incompatible with later rocker arms due to lobe profile changes (Vauxhall SIB M‑14‑81).
The 14 NV's primary reliability risk is camshaft and tappet wear, with elevated incidence in high‑rpm or neglected‑maintenance use. Vauxhall internal reports from 1983 noted cam failures in over 12% of engines exceeding 80,000 km without proper oil changes, while UK DVSA historical data links poor valve adjustment to premature top‑end noise. Frequent short trips and use of incorrect oil viscosity increase wear, making regular clearance checks and oil quality critical.
Analysis derived from Vauxhall technical bulletins (1979–1984) and UK DVSA historical failure statistics (1980–1990). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VAUXHALL 14-NV.
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VAUXHALL Official Site
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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)
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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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