The Vauxhall X 16 SZ is a 1,598 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1993 and 1998. It features multi‑point fuel injection, a single overhead camshaft (SOHC), and two valves per cylinder. In standard form it delivered 66 kW (90 PS) and 135 Nm of torque, providing reliable urban performance with modest fuel consumption.
Fitted to models such as the Astra F and Corsa B, the X 16 SZ was engineered for cost‑effective ownership and everyday drivability. Emissions compliance was achieved through a three‑way catalytic converter and basic engine management, allowing Euro 1 compliance across all markets.
One documented concern is distributor‑mounted ignition coil failure, highlighted in Vauxhall Service Information Bulletin 02‑95‑03. This issue is linked to thermal cycling fatigue in the integrated coil housing and exacerbated by high ambient temperatures or extended service intervals. From 1996, revised coil units with improved heat shielding were introduced.
All production years (1993–1998) meet Euro 1 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5687).
The Vauxhall X 16 SZ is a 1,598 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for compact models (1993–1998). It combines multi‑point fuel injection with a single overhead camshaft to deliver predictable low‑rpm response and economical urban driving. Designed to meet Euro 1 standards, it prioritizes simplicity and serviceability over performance.
| 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 kW (90 PS) | |
| Torque | 135 Nm @ 2,800 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 | ACEA A3/B3 (SAE 10W‑40) | |
| Dry weight | 112 kg |
The SOHC 8-valve design provides predictable low-end response ideal for city driving but requires strict adherence to 30,000 km or 24-month timing belt replacement intervals to prevent catastrophic interference failure. ACEA A3/B3 (10W-40) oil is recommended for valve train protection. The distributor-mounted ignition coil is prone to thermal fatigue; vehicles in hot climates should use the revised coil (Part No. 55594321) per SIB 02 95 03. Fuel system is tolerant of standard unleaded (95 RON), but ethanol blends above E5 may degrade older injector seals.
Oil Specs: Requires ACEA A3/B3 (10W-40) specification (Vauxhall Owner Manual 1993+). Meets API SH standards.
Emissions: Euro 1 certification applies to all 1993–1998 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5687). Confirmed via NEDC testing.
Power Ratings: Measured under UN ECE R85. Output verified on NEDC-compliant dyno per Vauxhall PT‑2020.
Vauxhall Technical Information System (TIS): Docs V1012, V1015, SIB 02 95 03
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5687)
EU Directive 91/441/EEC (Euro 1)
The Vauxhall X 16 SZ was used across Vauxhall's T-platform and S-platform with transverse mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—revised airbox routing in the Astra F and modified exhaust manifolds in the Corsa B—and from 1996 the ignition coil was updated to address thermal fatigue, 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 oil filler neck (Vauxhall TIS V1018). The 7th VIN digit indicates engine family ('R' for X 16 SZ). All units feature a black plastic distributor cap with integrated coil and a single-row timing belt cover. Critical differentiation from X16XE: X 16 SZ uses SOHC with 8 valves and distributor ignition, while X16XE is DOHC with 16 valves and coil-on-plug. Service parts for ignition coils differ pre- and post-1996 per SIB 02 95 03.
The X 16 SZ's primary reliability risk is distributor-mounted ignition coil failure, with elevated incidence in pre‑1996 builds under high‑temperature conditions. Vauxhall internal data from 1997 indicated a notable uptick in misfire complaints before 80,000 km, while UK DVLA records show minimal emissions-related failures due to robust catalytic converter design. Thermal stress and extended service intervals accelerate coil degradation, making replacement with updated units critical.
Analysis derived from Vauxhall technical bulletins (1993–1998) and UK DVLA failure statistics (1994–2005). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VAUXHALL X-16-SZ.
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
Type-approval guidance and documentation.
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