The Vauxhall C 16 NZ 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 layout and sequential electronic fuel injection (EFI), delivering 66–74 kW (90–101 PS) and 135–140 Nm of torque. This engine prioritised fuel efficiency and mechanical simplicity for compact vehicle applications.
Fitted primarily to the Astra F, Corsa B, and Tigra, the C 16 NZ was engineered for urban and mixed driving with an emphasis on reliability and low emissions for its era. Emissions compliance was achieved through closed-loop lambda control, an exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system, and a three-way catalytic converter, enabling Euro 1 compliance across its production run.
One documented concern is idle instability due to throttle body carbon fouling and ECU adaptation drift, highlighted in Vauxhall Service Bulletin SB/94/07. This issue stems from the early Bosch Motronic 1.5 system’s sensitivity to intake deposits and ageing sensor calibration. From 1995 onward, revised throttle bodies and updated ECU software were introduced to improve idle consistency and cold-start behaviour.
Production years 1991–1998 meet Euro 1 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/3456).
The Vauxhall C 16 NZ is a 1,598 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for compact hatchbacks and coupés (1991–1998). It combines SOHC architecture with sequential fuel injection to deliver predictable performance and serviceability. Designed to meet Euro 1 emissions standards, it balances urban efficiency with mechanical robustness.
| 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 × 84.0 mm | |
| Power output | 66–74 kW (90–101 PS) @ 5,400–5,800 rpm | |
| Torque | 135–140 Nm @ 2,800–3,400 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Sequential multi-point injection (Bosch Motronic 1.5) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 1 | |
| Compression ratio | 9.4:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled, belt-driven pump | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Belt-driven SOHC | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-40 mineral or semi-synthetic (API SG/CD) | |
| Dry weight | 112 kg |
The SOHC layout offers mechanical simplicity but requires timing belt replacement every 60,000 km or 4 years to prevent catastrophic failure. The Bosch Motronic 1.5 system is sensitive to intake carbon buildup—throttle body cleaning and idle adaptation resets are often needed to restore smooth operation. Use of correct 10W-40 oil ensures adequate camshaft lubrication. The non-interference design reduces risk if the belt fails, but prompt replacement remains critical. EGR valve sticking is common after 100,000 km; cleaning or replacement restores emissions compliance per SB/94/07.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 10W-40 meeting API SG/CD (Vauxhall OH/C16NZ/91). Fully synthetic oils not recommended for original-spec engines.
Emissions: Euro 1 certification applies to all production years (1991–1998) under VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/3456.
Power Ratings: Measured under BS AU 147a. Higher-output variants (101 PS) used revised intake manifolds and ECU maps (PB/93/05).
Vauxhall Technical Information System: Docs TM/C16NZ/91, SB/92/14, SB/94/07
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/3456)
British Standards Institution: BS AU 147a Engine Power Testing
The Vauxhall C 16 NZ was used across Vauxhall's Astra F, Corsa B, and Tigra platforms with transverse mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—revised engine mounts in the Tigra and modified exhaust manifolds in later Astra models—and from 1995 the updated ECU calibration improved cold-start performance. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front face of the block near the exhaust manifold (Vauxhall TM/C16NZ/91). The code 'C16NZ' appears as cast alphanumeric characters. Visual identification: black plastic cam cover with '16V' absent (8-valve), single injector rail, and distributorless ignition with coil pack mounted on the right side. Differentiate from the X16SZ (twin-point injection) by presence of four injectors and absence of throttle-body fueling. ECU part number begins with '0 261 200 xxx' for Bosch Motronic 1.5 systems.
The C 16 NZ's primary reliability risk is idle instability and EGR-related drivability issues, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or infrequently serviced examples. Vauxhall internal service logs from 1996 noted increased warranty claims for rough idle beyond 80,000 km, while UK DVSA MOT records associate EGR valve failure with emissions test failures in pre-1996 builds. Neglected maintenance and incorrect oil viscosity accelerate carbon buildup, making periodic cleaning critical.
Analysis derived from Vauxhall technical bulletins (1991–1998) and UK DVSA failure statistics (1995–2010). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VAUXHALL C-16-NZ.
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
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