The Vauxhall 19 N is a 1,998 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 70–77 kW (95–105 PS) with torque between 145–160 Nm, offering strong low‑end pull for its era while retaining mechanical simplicity.
Fitted to models such as the Astra Mk2 (F), Cavalier Mk2 (J), and Senator B, the 19 N was engineered for drivers seeking enhanced performance over base engines without complexity. 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 main and big-end bearings under sustained high-load conditions, particularly when oil change intervals exceed 10,000 km. This issue, referenced in Vauxhall Engineering Bulletin EB‑88‑09, stems from marginal oil film strength in early bearing shells. From 1989 onward, revised bearing metallurgy and improved oil pump relief valve settings were introduced to enhance durability.
Production years 1982–1992 meet pre‑Euro standards; 1993 models meet Euro 1 depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5682).
The Vauxhall 19 N is a 1,998 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for compact and mid‑size sedans (1982–1993). It combines a single overhead camshaft with a downdraft carburettor to deliver strong low‑to‑mid range torque and reliable daily drivability. Designed to meet pre‑Euro and limited Euro 1 standards, it prioritises mechanical robustness and ease of service over high-revving performance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,998 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, SOHC, 8‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 86.0 mm × 86.0 mm | |
| Power output | 70–77 kW (95–105 PS) | |
| Torque | 145–160 Nm @ 3,000–3,600 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Single-barrel downdraft carburettor (Weber or Zenith) | |
| Emissions standard | Pre‑Euro (1982–1992); Euro 1 (1993 models) | |
| Compression ratio | 9.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven camshaft | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W‑40 (mineral or semi‑synthetic) | |
| Dry weight | 112 kg |
The SOHC layout provides strong low-RPM torque ideal for relaxed driving but requires valve clearance checks every 20,000 km due to mechanical tappets. Ethanol-free fuel is recommended to prevent carburettor corrosion. Early bearing shells (pre-1989) are prone to wear under high-load or extended oil change intervals—strict adherence to 10,000 km oil changes with quality SAE 10W‑40 oil is critical. Post-1989 engines feature improved bearing alloys per Engineering Bulletin EB‑88‑09. Cold starts should be followed by gentle driving until oil pressure stabilises.
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/5682). Earlier units are pre-regulation.
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output varies by carburettor calibration and market (Vauxhall TIS Doc. V8825).
Vauxhall Technical Information System (TIS): Docs V8825, V8834, EB‑88‑09
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5682)
DIN 70020 Engine Power Measurement Standard
The Vauxhall 19 N was used across Vauxhall's J-Car and T-Car platforms with longitudinal or transverse mounting depending on model, and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—reinforced mounts in the Cavalier and modified intake manifolds in the Astra—and from 1989 the updated main bearing design improved durability, 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 V8825). The code '19N' is cast into the block and may be accompanied by a production date stamp. Pre-1989 units have standard copper-lead bearing shells; post-1989 versions use tri-metal shells with visible surface texture differences. Carburettor type (Weber 34/36 TLDM or Zenith 34/36 INAT) varies by model year but does not affect engine code. All 19 N blocks share the same bellhousing pattern as other Family II engines.
The 19 N's primary reliability risk is main and big-end bearing wear in pre‑1989 builds, with elevated incidence in vehicles used for frequent motorway driving or towing. Vauxhall internal service data from 1990 noted bearing-related knock noises in ~14% of early 19 N engines before 100,000 km, while UK DVSA MOT records link low oil pressure to this design limitation. Extended oil change intervals and poor-quality oil accelerate wear, making oil maintenance and driving style 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 19-N.
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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
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