The Vauxhall 17 NA is a 1,703 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1979 and 1986. It features an overhead valve (OHV) layout with a single downdraft carburettor and cast‑iron block construction. In standard tune it delivered 75 bhp (56 kW) at 5,200 rpm and 95 lb·ft (129 Nm) of torque at 2,800 rpm, providing responsive low‑speed drivability for compact and mid‑size family cars of its era.
Fitted to models such as the Cavalier Mk1, Chevette, and early Carlton, the 17 NA was engineered for economical, reliable motoring with straightforward serviceability. Emissions control included basic evaporative and exhaust recirculation systems, allowing compliance with Euro 0 norms and early UK emissions requirements under VCA Type Approval.
One documented concern is carburettor calibration drift under ethanol‑blended fuels, highlighted in Vauxhall Engineering Bulletin EB‑82‑14. This stems from the original float chamber and jet materials not being fully compatible with modern fuel additives, leading to lean running and hot‑start hesitation. From 1983, revised carburettor kits with ethanol‑resistant components were introduced.
Production years 1979–1982 meet pre‑Euro emissions norms; 1983–1986 models may include modifications for improved fuel compatibility and emissions control (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7215).
The Vauxhall 17 NA is a 1,703 cc inline‑four OHV petrol engine engineered for compact and mid‑size family cars (1979–1986). It combines a single carburettor with robust cast‑iron construction to deliver dependable low‑speed drivability. Designed during the transition to formal emissions controls, it balances mechanical simplicity with early compliance measures.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,703 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (unleaded, post‑1979 with hardened valve seats) | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, OHV, 8‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 82.5 mm × 79.5 mm | |
| Power output | 75 bhp (56 kW) @ 5,200 rpm | |
| Torque | 95 lb·ft (129 Nm) @ 2,800 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Single downdraft carburettor (Zenith/Stromberg) | |
| Emissions standard | Pre‑Euro / Euro 0 (basic evaporative controls) | |
| Compression ratio | 8.8:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain‑driven camshaft (front mounted) | |
| Oil type | SAE 20W‑50 mineral oil (API SC/CC) | |
| Dry weight | 122 kg |
The OHV layout provides mechanical simplicity and ease of maintenance but lacks high‑rpm efficiency. All 17 NA engines were built post‑1979 and include hardened valve seats, making them compatible with modern unleaded fuel. Regular valve clearance checks (every 6,000 miles) are essential to maintain performance. The cast‑iron block is durable but heavy; cooling system integrity must be monitored to prevent overheating. Carburettor tuning should follow OEM jetting specifications, and ethanol‑resistant rebuild kits are recommended for long‑term reliability with modern fuels.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 20W-50 mineral oil meeting API SC/CC (Vauxhall Owner’s Handbook Cavalier Mk1 1981). Modern classic‑car oils with ZDDP are suitable.
Emissions: Meets pre‑Euro standards with basic evaporative emission controls (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7215). No catalytic converter fitted.
Power Ratings: Measured under BS AU 141a (British Standard). Output consistent across Cavalier/Chevette/Carlton applications (Vauxhall PT‑1980).
Vauxhall Technical Information System (TIS): Workshop Manuals Cavalier Mk1/Chevette/Carlton
Vauxhall Engineering Bulletins: EB‑82‑14, EB‑80‑07
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/7215)
British Standards Institution: BS AU 141a
The Vauxhall 17 NA was used across Vauxhall's Cavalier Mk1, Chevette, and early Carlton platforms with longitudinal mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—revised engine mounts in the Carlton and updated carburettor jetting in the Chevette—and from 1983 the introduction of ethanol‑resistant carburettor components, creating service part compatibility limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the left-hand side of the block near the distributor mount (Vauxhall TIS CA‑110). The code '17NA' is cast into the block and appears on the compliance plate under the bonnet. All units feature hardened valve seats (no 'U' stamp needed). Differentiate from the 16S (1,599 cc) by bore size and displacement badge—17NA uses Zenith 34IV or Stromberg 150CD carburettors. Engine numbers beginning with '17NA' confirm identity; cross‑reference with VIN chassis plate for model year verification.
The 17 NA's primary reliability risk is carburettor calibration drift and fuel system degradation when operated on modern ethanol‑blended petrol, with elevated incidence in high‑mileage or infrequently driven examples. Vauxhall service data from 1983 noted increased hot‑start complaints linked to float chamber swelling, while UK DVLA workshop records show frequent timing chain and cooling system faults in preserved examples. Infrequent oil changes and incorrect valve clearances accelerate wear, making adherence to service intervals critical.
Analysis derived from Vauxhall technical bulletins (1979–1986) and UK DVSA failure statistics (1985–1995). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VAUXHALL 17-NA.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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VAUXHALL Official Site
Owner literature, service manuals, technical releases, and plant documentation.
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
Type-approval guidance and documentation.
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