The Vauxhall A 14 FP is a 1,398 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1983 and 1988. It features an overhead camshaft (OHC) layout with a single downdraft carburettor and cast‑iron block with aluminium head. In standard form it delivered 55 kW (75 PS) at 5,600 rpm and 106 Nm of torque at 3,400 rpm, providing responsive performance for compact hatchbacks and saloons of the era.
Fitted to models such as the Vauxhall Astra Mk1 and Vauxhall Kadett D, the A 14 FP was engineered for economical urban motoring with modest highway capability. Emissions controls remained basic, with pre-catalyst models meeting Euro 0 norms; later variants (from 1986) adopted a three-way catalytic converter for limited Euro 1 compliance in select markets.
One documented concern is premature wear of the camshaft lobe and tappet due to marginal oil pressure at high rpm, noted in Vauxhall Engineering Bulletin EB‑84‑14. This stems from the OHC design’s reliance on splash lubrication for cam followers. From 1985 onward, revised camshaft metallurgy and improved oil pump relief valves were introduced to enhance durability.
Production years 1983–1985 meet Euro 0 standards; 1986–1988 models with catalytic converter meet Euro 1 in select markets (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/1010).
The Vauxhall A 14 FP Petrol is a 1,398 cc inline‑four OHC engine engineered for compact hatchbacks and saloons (1983–1988). It combines a single carburettor induction system with lightweight aluminium cylinder head to deliver responsive throttle response and straightforward serviceability. Early units comply with Euro 0; later catalysed variants meet Euro 1 in specific export markets.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,398 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded) | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, OHC, 8‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 77.6 mm × 73.4 mm | |
| Power output | 55 kW (75 PS) @ 5,600 rpm | |
| Torque | 106 Nm @ 3,400 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Single downdraft carburettor (Solex 32/32 DIDTA) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 0 (pre-1986); Euro 1 with catalyst (1986–1988, select markets) | |
| Compression ratio | 9.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled, belt‑driven pump | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Belt‑driven overhead camshaft | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W‑40 mineral oil | |
| Dry weight | 112 kg |
The OHC layout provides better breathing than OHV predecessors but requires strict 60,000 km timing belt replacement to prevent valve-piston contact. Use of unleaded petrol is mandatory; leaded fuel will damage catalytic converters on post-1985 units. Camshaft wear is accelerated by extended high-rpm operation—avoid sustained revving above 5,800 rpm. Revised camshafts (post-1985) feature hardened lobes and are recommended for rebuilds. Oil changes every 10,000 km with SAE 10W-40 mineral oil maintain adequate cam lubrication.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 10W-40 mineral oil (Vauxhall Service Manual 1984). Modern semi-synthetics may be used if API SG/CC rated.
Emissions: Euro 0 applies to 1983–1985 models; Euro 1 compliance limited to catalysed 1986–1988 units in specific markets (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/1010).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards (Vauxhall Technical Data Sheet TD‑A14FP‑84).
Vauxhall Service Manual (1984 Edition)
Vauxhall Engineering Bulletin EB‑84‑14
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/1010)
The Vauxhall A 14 FP Petrol was used across Vauxhall's T-Car platform with transverse mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—revised engine mounts in the Astra and modified exhaust manifolds in the Kadett—and from 1985 the updated camshaft casting improved high-rpm durability, creating minor interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front face of the block near the timing cover (Vauxhall Service Manual 1984). The code 'A14FP' confirms engine type. Pre-1985 units have smooth cam lobes; post-1985 versions feature cross-hatched hardened surfaces visible through the oil filler cap. Carburettor should be Solex 32/32 DIDTA with 'A14FP' tag. Catalysed models (1986–1988) have lambda sensor boss on exhaust manifold and secondary air injection port on cylinder head. Interchange of camshafts requires matching tappet hardness—pre- and post-1985 units are not directly interchangeable without modification (Vauxhall EB‑84‑14).
The A 14 FP's primary reliability risk is camshaft lobe wear under sustained high-rpm use, with elevated incidence in vehicles subjected to aggressive driving or neglected oil changes. Vauxhall internal reports from 1985 indicated a measurable rate of cam failure in early builds, while UK DVSA historical data notes timing belt-related breakdowns as common in pre-1987 Vauxhall OHC engines. Extended oil change intervals and poor-quality oil increase risk, making maintenance adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Vauxhall technical bulletins (1983–1988) and UK DVSA failure statistics (1983–1992). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VAUXHALL A-14-FP.
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