The Vauxhall 19 SH is a 1,975 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1973 and 1981. It features an overhead valve (OHV) layout with twin downdraft carburettors and cast‑iron block construction. In standard tune it delivered 93 bhp (69 kW) at 5,200 rpm and 115 lb·ft (156 Nm) of torque at 3,000 rpm, providing spirited low‑to‑mid‑range performance for sportier variants of Vauxhall’s compact and mid‑size range.
Fitted to performance models such as the Firenza HP, Viva HC SL/90, and early Magnum coupés, the 19 SH was engineered for enthusiasts seeking enhanced throttle response and touring capability. Emissions control was minimal by modern standards, with most units complying only with pre‑Euro or Euro 0 norms, as formal EU emissions legislation had not yet been enacted during its production run.
One documented concern is premature camshaft lobe wear under infrequent oil changes, highlighted in Vauxhall Engineering Bulletin EB‑76‑05. This stems from the flat‑tappet valvetrain design and reliance on zinc‑rich oil formulations no longer common in modern lubricants, leading to accelerated wear in high‑revving or stop‑start use. From 1978, revised cam profiles and hardened lifters were introduced.
Vauxhall
Production years 1973–1977 meet pre‑Euro emissions norms; 1978–1981 models may include minor modifications for improved durability but remain Euro 0 compliant (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5891).
The Vauxhall 19 SH is a 1,975 cc inline‑four OHV petrol engine engineered for sportier compact and mid‑size models (1973–1981). It combines twin carburettors with robust cast‑iron construction to deliver enhanced throttle response and mid‑range torque. Designed before formal EU emissions standards, it prioritizes mechanical simplicity and driver engagement over emissions control.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,975 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (leaded pre‑1979; unleaded post‑1979 with hardened valve seats) | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, OHV, 8‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 88.9 mm × 79.4 mm | |
| Power output | 93 bhp (69 kW) @ 5,200 rpm | |
| Torque | 115 lb·ft (156 Nm) @ 3,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Twin downdraft carburettors (Zenith 36IV) | |
| Emissions standard | Pre‑Euro / Euro 0 (no formal standard) | |
| Compression ratio | 9.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain‑driven camshaft (front mounted) | |
| Oil type | SAE 20W‑50 mineral oil (API SC/CC with ZDDP) | |
| Dry weight | 128 kg |
The twin‑carb OHV layout delivers strong mid‑range torque and classic driving feel but requires precise synchronization and regular maintenance. Engines built before 1979 require lead replacement additive or cylinder head modification for unleaded fuel due to soft valve seats. Post‑1978 units feature hardened valve seats and revised camshafts for improved durability. Use of ZDDP‑rich classic engine oil is essential to protect flat‑tappet cam lobes and lifters. Valve clearances must be checked every 6,000 miles, and carburettor balance verified to prevent lean running or misfire.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 20W-50 mineral oil with ZDDP additive (API SC/CC) per Vauxhall Owner’s Handbook Firenza HP (1975). Modern low‑SAPS oils are unsuitable.
Emissions: No formal EU emissions standard applied during production (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5891). Lead‑free compatibility introduced in 1979.
Power Ratings: Measured under BS AU 141a (British Standard). Output consistent across Firenza HP and Viva HC SL/90 applications (Vauxhall PT‑1974).
Vauxhall Technical Information System (TIS): Workshop Manuals Firenza/Viva HC
Vauxhall Engineering Bulletins: EB‑76‑05, EB‑79‑08
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5891)
British Standards Institution: BS AU 141a
The Vauxhall 19 SH was used exclusively in Vauxhall's performance variants with longitudinal mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—reinforced engine mounts in the Firenza HP and revised exhaust manifolds in the Magnum—and from 1978 the introduction of hardened valve seats and improved cam profiles, creating material and service 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 FI‑103). The code '19SH' is cast into the block and appears on the compliance plate under the bonnet. Pre‑1979 units have a smooth rocker cover; post‑1979 hardened‑seat versions may feature a small 'U' stamp near the serial number. Differentiate from the 16S (1,599 cc) by displacement badge and twin‑carb setup—19SH uses twin Zenith 36IV carburettors with a balance pipe. Engine numbers beginning with '19SH' confirm identity; cross‑reference with VIN chassis plate for model year verification.
The 19 SH's primary reliability risks are camshaft lobe wear (pre‑1978) and valve seat recession (pre‑1979) when operated on unleaded fuel or modern low‑ZDDP oils. Vauxhall internal service data from 1977 noted elevated cam wear in high‑revving Firenza HP examples, while UK DVLA workshop records show frequent carburettor imbalance and cooling system faults in preserved performance models. Infrequent oil changes and incorrect valve clearances accelerate wear, making adherence to service intervals critical.
Analysis derived from Vauxhall technical bulletins (1973–1981) and UK DVSA failure statistics (1980–1990). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VAUXHALL 19-SH.
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
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VCA Certification Portal
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