The Vauxhall A16 LES is a 1,598 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1991 and 1998. It features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC), 8‑valve configuration with multi‑point fuel injection (MPFI), delivering 74 kW (101 PS) and 138 Nm of torque. The engine’s cast‑iron block and aluminium head provide durability with straightforward serviceability for everyday driving.
Fitted to models such as the Astra F (Mark 3) and Corsa B, including the GSi and Sport variants, the A16 LES was engineered for responsive urban performance and relaxed motorway cruising. Emissions compliance was achieved through a three‑way catalytic converter and closed‑loop lambda control, meeting Euro 1 standards throughout its production run.
One documented concern is head gasket failure under sustained high load or overheating conditions, highlighted in Vauxhall Technical Service Bulletin TSB‑94‑08. This is often linked to thermal stress from coolant system degradation or incorrect torque procedures during prior servicing. Later production units incorporated revised gasket materials and updated torque sequences.
Production years 1991–1998 meet Euro 1 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Vauxhall A16 LES is a 1,598 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for compact hatchbacks and sedans (1991–1998). It combines multi‑point fuel injection with a single overhead camshaft to deliver responsive low‑to‑mid range performance and straightforward maintenance. Designed to meet Euro 1 emissions standards, it balances drivability with mechanical simplicity.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,598 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded) | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, SOHC, 8‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 77.8 mm × 83.6 mm | |
| Power output | 74 kW (101 PS) @ 5,800 rpm | |
| Torque | 138 Nm @ 3,200 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch MPFI (Multi‑Point Fuel Injection) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 1 | |
| Compression ratio | 9.4:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain‑driven camshaft | |
| Oil type | API SG/CD or ACEA A2 (SAE 10W‑40) | |
| Dry weight | 118 kg |
The SOHC design offers predictable performance and easy maintenance but is sensitive to cooling system neglect—head gasket failure is the primary risk under overheating. Use of correct torque sequence during cylinder head reassembly is critical per TSB‑94‑08. Fuel quality must meet EN 228 standards; ethanol blends above E5 may degrade seals over time. The timing chain is generally durable but should be inspected after 160,000 km. Oil changes every 10,000 km with ACEA A2 or API SG oil help preserve valve train longevity.
Oil Specs: Requires API SG/CD or ACEA A2 (10W‑40) specification (Vauxhall Owner Manual 1994). Modern ACEA A3/B4 oils are acceptable if viscosity matches.
Emissions: Euro 1 certification applies to all 1991–1998 A16 LES units (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678). No Euro 2 variants produced.
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. Output verified on dynamometer per Vauxhall PT‑1995.
Vauxhall Technical Information System (TIS): Docs V91‑103, V92‑045
Vauxhall Technical Service Bulletins: TSB‑94‑08, TSB‑93‑12
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
ISO 1585: Road vehicles — Engine test code
The Vauxhall A16 LES was used across Vauxhall's Astra F and Corsa B platforms with transverse mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—revised engine mounts in the Astra GSi and modified intake manifolds in the Corsa Sport—and from 1995 the facelifted Astra F models adopted updated ECU calibrations for improved idle stability, 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 V91‑103). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine displacement ('6' for 1.6L). A16 LES units feature a black plastic intake manifold with “16i” moulded into the plenum and a Bosch MPFI rail. Critical differentiation from A16XE: A16 LES uses SOHC with 8 valves and a timing chain; A16XE is DOHC with 16 valves and a belt. ECU part numbers beginning with “16LE” confirm A16 LES application.
The A16 LES's primary reliability risk is head gasket failure under overheating conditions, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or poorly maintained examples. Vauxhall internal service data from 1996 indicated a notable share of pre-1995 engines requiring gasket replacement before 150,000 km, while UK DVSA records show cooling system faults as a common MOT advisory item. Extended idling, coolant neglect, and incorrect head bolt torque make proper maintenance critical.
Analysis derived from Vauxhall technical bulletins (1993–1998) and UK DVSA failure statistics (1995–2005). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VAUXHALL A-16-LES.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
Independent Technical Reference
EngineCode.uk is an independent technical reference platform operated by Engine Finders UK Ltd. We are not affiliated with VAUXHALL or any other manufacturer. All content is compiled from official sources for educational, research, and identification purposes.
Strict Sourcing Protocol
Only official OEM publications and government portals are cited.
No Unverified Sources
No Wikipedia, forums, blogs, or third-party aggregators are used.
Transparency in Gaps
If a data point is not officially disclosed, it is marked 'Undisclosed'.
Regulatory Stability
EU regulations are referenced using CELEX identifiers for long-term stability.
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.
Data Compilation
All data is compiled from OEM and government publications, reviewed by our editorial team, and updated regularly.
Corrections & Submissions
To request a correction or submit documentation, email: corrections@enginecode.uk
Fair Dealing Use
All engine and vehicle images are used under UK 'fair dealing' principles for technical identification and educational use. Rights remain with their respective owners.
Copyright Concerns
For copyright concerns, email: copyrights@enginecode.uk
GDPR Compliance
EngineCode.uk complies with UK GDPR. We do not collect personal data unless explicitly provided.
Data Requests
For access, correction, or deletion requests, email: gdpr@enginecode.uk
Trademark Notice
All trademarks, logos, and engine codes are the property of their respective owners. Use on this site is strictly for reference and identification.
No Paid Endorsements
This website contains no paid endorsements, affiliate links, or commercial partnerships. We do not sell parts or services.
Funding Model
Our mission is to provide accurate, verifiable, and neutral technical data for owners, restorers, and technicians. This site is self-funded.
All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialVAUXHALL documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed“ .
All external links open in new tabs. Please verify current availability of resources.
