The Vauxhall C20NE is a 1,998 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1987 and 1993. It features multi-point fuel injection, a single overhead camshaft (SOHC), and two valves per cylinder. In standard form it delivers 82 kW (112 PS) and 165 Nm of torque, providing predictable throttle response for mid-size applications.
Fitted to models such as the Cavalier Mk2, Calibra, and Omega A—including the 2.0i variants—the C20NE was engineered for balanced performance and serviceability. Emissions compliance was achieved through a three-way catalytic converter and basic lambda control, meeting Euro 1 standards across its production run.
One documented concern is premature wear of the distributor drive gear, highlighted in Vauxhall Service Bulletin 89‑007. This issue is often linked to inadequate lubrication and thermal stress in high-mileage units. From 1991 onward, revised gear metallurgy and oil gallery routing were introduced to improve durability.
Production years 1987–1993 meet Euro 1 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/1020).
The Vauxhall C20NE is a 1,998 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for mid-size models (1987–1993). It combines multi-point fuel injection with SOHC architecture to deliver predictable throttle response and straightforward maintenance. Designed to meet Euro 1 standards, it prioritizes mechanical robustness over peak efficiency.
| 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 | 82 kW (112 PS) | |
| Torque | 165 Nm @ 3,200 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch Motronic MPFI (multi-point injection) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 1 | |
| Compression ratio | 9.4:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Belt (front‑mounted) | |
| Oil type | Vauxhall 10W‑40 mineral or semi-synthetic | |
| Dry weight | 118 kg |
The SOHC 8-valve layout provides predictable performance ideal for mixed driving but requires strict adherence to 10,000 km timing belt replacement intervals to prevent catastrophic interference damage. The distributor-based ignition system is vulnerable to drive gear wear—ensure distributor and oil pump drive are inspected during major services. Use only RON 95 petrol to avoid knocking. Post-1991 engines feature improved gear metallurgy per Vauxhall SIB 89-007; pre-1991 units benefit from proactive inspection. No complex emissions hardware simplifies maintenance but mandates catalytic converter integrity for compliance.
Oil Specs: Requires Vauxhall-approved 10W-40 mineral or semi-synthetic oil (Vauxhall Owner's Manual 1988). ACEA A2/B2 compliance recommended.
Emissions: Euro 1 certification applies to all production years 1987–1993 (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/1020).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output verified on Cavalier Mk2 2.0i (VIN 8th digit 'N') per Vauxhall TIS V09‑001.
Vauxhall Technical Information System (TIS): Docs V08‑0320, V08‑0325, SIB 89‑007
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/1020)
DIN 70020 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Vauxhall C20NE was used across Vauxhall's Cavalier Mk2, Calibra, and Omega A platforms with longitudinal mounting and derived from the GM Family II engine series. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—revised engine mounts in the Calibra and modified exhaust manifolds in the Omega—and from 1991 the updated distributor drive design improved reliability, creating minor interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front timing cover near the crankshaft pulley (Vauxhall TIS V08‑0350). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine family ('N' for C20NE). Pre-1991 models use a standard distributor drive gear; post-1991 units have hardened gear with revised oil feed. Critical differentiation from C20XE: C20NE uses SOHC 8-valve head, while C20XE is DOHC 16-valve. Service parts for ignition require production date verification—distributor drive kits for engines before 05/1991 are incompatible with later units due to gear profile revision (Vauxhall SIB 89‑007).
The C20NE's primary reliability risk is distributor drive gear wear and timing belt neglect in early builds, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or poorly maintained examples. Vauxhall internal data from 1992 indicated a notable share of pre-1991 engines requiring ignition drive replacement before 120,000 km, while UK MOT records show timing belt-related failures in vehicles exceeding service intervals. Infrequent servicing and incorrect oil accelerate wear, making interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Vauxhall technical bulletins (1989–1993) and UK MOT failure statistics (1998–2010). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VAUXHALL C-20-NE.
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
UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.
VCA Certification Portal
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