The Vauxhall 15 is a 1,498 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1982 and 1993. It features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC), two valves per cylinder, and a downdraft carburettor. Output ranges from 55–66 kW (75–90 PS) with torque between 110–125 Nm, offering improved mid‑range response over smaller Family I units.
Fitted to models such as the Astra Mk2 (F), Corsa A, and Nova, the 15 was engineered for balanced urban and motorway performance with modest fuel consumption. Emissions compliance was achieved through a lean‑burn carburettor and secondary air injection system, allowing adherence to pre‑Euro standards throughout most of its production, with limited Euro 1 compliance in 1993 UK models under VCA type approval.
One documented concern is premature wear of the distributor drive gear, which can cause ignition timing drift and misfires. This issue, referenced in Vauxhall Engineering Bulletin EB‑88‑14, stems from insufficient case hardening in early castings. From 1989 onward, revised metallurgy and lubrication paths were introduced to extend service life.
Production years 1982–1992 meet pre‑Euro standards; 1993 models meet Euro 1 depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5679).
The Vauxhall 15 is a 1,498 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for compact hatchbacks (1982–1993). It combines a single overhead camshaft with a downdraft carburettor to deliver responsive low-to-mid range torque and reliable urban drivability. Designed to meet pre‑Euro and limited Euro 1 standards, it prioritises mechanical simplicity and ease of maintenance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,498 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, SOHC, 8‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 77.6 mm × 79.0 mm | |
| Power output | 55–66 kW (75–90 PS) | |
| Torque | 110–125 Nm @ 3,000–3,800 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Single-barrel downdraft carburettor (Weber or Zenith) | |
| Emissions standard | Pre‑Euro (1982–1992); Euro 1 (1993 models) | |
| Compression ratio | 9.2:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven camshaft | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W‑40 (mineral or semi‑synthetic) | |
| Dry weight | 102 kg |
The SOHC layout delivers predictable performance suited to daily commuting but requires periodic valve clearance checks every 20,000 km due to mechanical tappets. Ethanol-free fuel is recommended to prevent carburettor corrosion and float needle sticking. Early distributor drive gears (pre-1989) are prone to wear—listen for erratic idle or timing drift; replacement with post-1989 hardened units per Engineering Bulletin EB‑88‑14 is advised during rebuilds. Use of correct oil maintains cam and chain longevity.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 10W‑40 mineral or semi-synthetic oil (Vauxhall Owner’s Handbook 1985). ACEA A2 compliance sufficient.
Emissions: Euro 1 certification applies only to 1993 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5679). Earlier units are pre-regulation.
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output varies by carburettor calibration and market (Vauxhall TIS Doc. V8822).
Vauxhall Technical Information System (TIS): Docs V8822, V8831, EB‑88‑14
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5679)
DIN 70020 Engine Power Measurement Standard
The Vauxhall 15 was used across Vauxhall's T-Car and K-Car platforms with transverse mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—revised engine mounts in the Corsa A and modified exhaust manifolds in the Nova—and from 1989 the updated distributor drive gear improved ignition reliability, creating minor interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front face of the cylinder block near the timing cover (Vauxhall TIS V8822). The code '15' is cast into the block and may be accompanied by a production date stamp. Pre-1989 units feature a smooth distributor drive gear; post-1989 versions have a visibly hardened surface finish. Carburettor type (Weber 30/32 TLDM or Zenith 30/32 INAT) varies by model year but does not affect engine code. All 15 blocks share the same bellhousing pattern as other Family I engines.
The 15's primary reliability risk is distributor drive gear wear in pre‑1989 builds, with elevated incidence in high‑mileage or infrequently serviced vehicles. Vauxhall internal service data from 1991 noted timing-related misfires in ~18% of early 15 engines before 100,000 km, while UK DVSA MOT records link ignition faults to this design flaw. Extended oil change intervals and poor-quality oil accelerate wear, making distributor integrity and oil maintenance critical.
Analysis derived from Vauxhall technical bulletins (1985–1993) and UK DVSA failure statistics (1995–2005). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VAUXHALL 15.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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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)
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
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