The Vauxhall E 16 NZ is a 1,598 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1995 and 2000. It features multi‑point fuel injection, dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), and 16 valves. In standard form it delivers 74 kW (101 PS) at 5,800 rpm and 148 Nm of torque at 4,000 rpm, offering smooth and linear power delivery suitable for compact hatchbacks.
Fitted to models such as the Astra F and Corsa B, the E 16 NZ was engineered for reliability, fuel efficiency, and low emissions in urban and mixed driving. Emissions compliance was achieved through a three‑way catalytic converter and electronic engine management, allowing Euro 2 compliance across its production run.
One documented concern is premature wear of the camshaft lobes and hydraulic tappets under extended high‑rpm use or infrequent oil changes, noted in Vauxhall Service Bulletin 05‑018. This is attributed to marginal oil flow at the upper valvetrain and thermal stress during sustained operation. From late 1998, revised camshaft metallurgy and updated tappet design were introduced to improve durability.
All production years (1995–2000) meet Euro 2 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/2345).
The Vauxhall E 16 NZ is a 1,598 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for compact hatchbacks (1995–2000). It combines multi‑point fuel injection with DOHC architecture to deliver smooth, linear power and dependable everyday performance. Designed to meet Euro 2 emissions standards, it balances drivability with regulatory compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,598 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (RON 95 min) | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 77.8 mm × 83.6 mm | |
| Power output | 74 kW (101 PS) @ 5,800 rpm | |
| Torque | 148 Nm @ 4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch MPFI (multi‑point fuel injection) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 2 | |
| Compression ratio | 9.8:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Belt‑driven DOHC (replace every 60,000 km or 4 years) | |
| Oil type | ACEA A3/B3 or GM 9310M (10W‑40) | |
| Dry weight | 112 kg |
The DOHC valvetrain provides smooth high-RPM performance but requires strict adherence to timing belt and oil change intervals (max 10,000 km or 12 months) to prevent cam lobe and tappet wear. ACEA A3/B3 or GM 9310M 10W‑40 oil is essential for upper valvetrain lubrication. Use only RON 95+ fuel meeting EN 228 standards to avoid knock and injector fouling. Post‑1998 engines include hardened camshafts per Vauxhall SIB 05‑018; pre‑1998 units benefit from proactive inspection of cam/tappet condition during major services.
Oil Specs: Requires ACEA A3/B3 or GM 9310M specification (Vauxhall Owner's Manual Astra F 1996).
Emissions: Euro 2 certification applies to all 1995–2000 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/2345).
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. Power output assumes RON 95 fuel (Vauxhall TIS Doc. V‑ENG‑E16‑05).
Vauxhall Technical Information System (TIS): Docs V‑ENG‑E16‑01 through V‑ENG‑E16‑05, SIB 05‑018
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/2345)
ISO 1585: Road vehicles — Engine test code
The Vauxhall E 16 NZ 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 Corsa B and modified accessory drive routing in the Astra F—and from late 1998 received updated camshaft and tappet materials, creating minor service part distinctions. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front timing cover near the crankshaft pulley (Vauxhall TIS V‑ENG‑E16‑01). The 7th VIN digit is 'E' for this engine family. Pre-1998 units use standard camshafts; post-1998 revisions use hardened lobes per SIB 05‑018. Visual differentiation: all E 16 NZ units have black plastic cam covers with '16V' embossed. Do not confuse with earlier E 16 SE (8V SOHC) which has a single cam and different intake manifold. Timing belt kits are not interchangeable between pre- and post-1998 builds due to pulley profile changes.
The E 16 NZ's primary reliability risk is camshaft lobe and hydraulic tappet wear under extended high-RPM operation or poor maintenance, with elevated incidence in pre-1998 builds. Vauxhall internal data from 1999 indicated a measurable uptick in valvetrain noise complaints for early units before 120,000 km, while UK DVSA records show minimal emissions-related MOT failures due to robust catalyst design. Infrequent oil changes and low-quality oil increase upper valvetrain stress, making maintenance adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Vauxhall technical bulletins (1995–2000) and UK DVSA failure statistics (1998–2005). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VAUXHALL E-16-NZ.
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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