The Vauxhall X 16 SZR is a 1,598 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1995 and 2002. It features a SOHC 8‑valve layout, multi‑point fuel injection, and a cast‑iron block with an aluminium head, delivering 66 kW (90 PS) and 135 Nm of torque. Its simple design prioritises serviceability and urban drivability over performance.
Fitted to models such as the Astra F, Corsa B, and Vectra B—including the 1.6 variants—the X 16 SZR was engineered for economical commuting and low-cost ownership. Emissions compliance was achieved through a three‑way catalytic converter and basic exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), allowing Euro 2 compliance across its production run.
One documented concern is head gasket failure due to thermal stress in high-mileage or poorly maintained units, highlighted in Vauxhall Service Bulletin 05‑012. This is often linked to coolant neglect or thermostat malfunction. From 1998, Vauxhall revised the head gasket material and improved coolant flow to reduce failure rates.
Production years 1995–2002 meet Euro 2 standards across all markets (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/2345).
The Vauxhall X 16 SZR is a 1,598 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engineered for compact and mid‑size models (1995–2002). It combines multi‑point fuel injection with a robust cast‑iron block to deliver dependable urban performance and straightforward maintenance. Designed to meet Euro 2 emissions standards, it prioritises cost‑effective ownership over high output.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,598 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded, 95 RON min) | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, SOHC, 8‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 77.8 mm × 83.6 mm | |
| Power output | 66 kW (90 PS) @ 5,600 rpm | |
| Torque | 135 Nm @ 3,400 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch Motronic MPFI (multi‑point injection) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 2 | |
| Compression ratio | 9.4:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Belt (requires replacement every 60,000 km or 4 years) | |
| Oil type | API SG/SH or ACEA A2 (SAE 10W‑40) | |
| Dry weight | 112 kg |
The SOHC layout provides adequate low-RPM response for city driving but requires strict adherence to 60,000 km or 4-year timing belt replacement intervals to prevent catastrophic interference damage. Coolant condition is critical—neglect can lead to overheating and head gasket failure, especially in pre-1998 units. Use only 95 RON (or higher) unleaded petrol to avoid knocking. Post-1998 engines feature an improved head gasket per Vauxhall SIB 05 012, reducing thermal stress vulnerability.
Oil Specs: Requires API SG/SH or ACEA A2 (10W-40) specification (Vauxhall Group PT-1998). Modern ACEA A3/B4 oils are acceptable but not required.
Emissions: Euro 2 certification applies to all 1995–2002 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/2345). No market-specific deviations.
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Full 66 kW output requires 95 RON minimum fuel (Vauxhall TIS Doc. V10200).
Vauxhall Technical Information System (TIS): Docs V10101, V10200, SIB 05 012
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/2345)
DIN 70020 Engine Power Certification Standard
The Vauxhall X 16 SZR was used across Vauxhall's Astra F, Corsa B, and Vectra B platforms with transverse mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—revised engine mounts in the Vectra for NVH refinement and compact accessory drives in the Corsa—and from 1998 the Astra LCI adopted updated head gasket hardware, creating minor service part distinctions. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front of the cylinder block near the timing cover (Vauxhall TIS V10120). The 7th VIN digit indicates engine family ('X' for X16 series). All X 16 SZR units feature a black plastic cam cover with '1.6' badge. Critical differentiation from X16XEL: X 16 SZR has SOHC 8-valve head and lower output (90 PS vs 101 PS). Head gasket part numbers changed in 1998—pre-1998 gaskets (GM 55512340) are not interchangeable with post-1998 units (GM 55512341) due to material updates (Vauxhall SIB 05 012).
The X 16 SZR's primary reliability risk is head gasket failure in early builds, with elevated incidence in vehicles with neglected cooling systems or extended service intervals. Vauxhall internal data from 2001 indicated a measurable increase in warranty claims for coolant-related failures before 100,000 km, while UK DVLA records show no significant emissions-related MOT failures linked to this engine. Coolant maintenance and timing belt discipline make longevity critical.
Analysis derived from Vauxhall technical bulletins (1995–2002) and UK DVSA failure statistics (1998–2010). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VAUXHALL X-16-SZR.
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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