The Volkswagen AS is a 1,588 cc, air-cooled flat-four petrol engine produced between 1972 and 1975. It features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) per cylinder bank, driven by a central gear train, and a single downdraft carburetor. This engine, part of the Type 4 series, delivered 59 kW (80 PS) and 129 Nm of torque, offering a modest but reliable power output for its era.
Fitted primarily to the Volkswagen Type 4 (411/412) and the Porsche 914, the AS was engineered for durability and ease of maintenance in a rear-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout. Emissions compliance for its production period was met through carburetor jetting and ignition timing, achieving the prevailing standards prior to formal Euro classifications, as verified under VCA Type Approval for UK imports.
One documented engineering focus was managing oil temperature and pressure in the air-cooled design, critical for bearing longevity. Service documentation (VW Workshop Manual, Group 01) notes the importance of correct oil viscosity and level for sustained high-speed operation, a common use case for the Type 4 platform.
Volkswagen
Production years 1972–1975 meet pre-Euro standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9876).
The Volkswagen AS is a 1,588 cc air-cooled flat-four petrol engine engineered for rear-engine sedans and sports cars (1972-1975). It combines a gear-driven SOHC valvetrain with a single carburetor to deliver smooth, linear power. Designed for the emissions regulations of its time, it prioritizes mechanical simplicity and robustness.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,588 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Regular Unleaded) | |
| Configuration | Flat-four, SOHC, 8-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 85.5 mm × 69.0 mm | |
| Power output | 59 kW (80 PS) @ 4,800 rpm | |
| Torque | 129 Nm @ 3,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Single 34 PICT-3 downdraft carburetor | |
| Emissions standard | Pre-Euro (1972-1975) | |
| Compression ratio | 7.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Air-cooled (fan-forced) | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Gear-driven camshafts | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-40 or 15W-40 (Mineral) | |
| Dry weight | 110 kg |
The air-cooled design offers simplicity but requires vigilant monitoring of oil temperature and level, especially during sustained high-speed driving or in hot climates. Using the correct mineral oil viscosity (10W-40 or 15W-40) is critical for bearing protection. The gear-driven valvetrain is exceptionally durable and requires no routine adjustment, a key reliability feature. The single carburetor demands periodic synchronization and jetting checks for optimal performance and fuel economy.
Oil Specs: Requires mineral oil SAE 10W-40 or 15W-40 (Volkswagen Owner's Manual). Synthetic oils were not specified for this era.
Emissions: Pre-Euro certification applies to all AS engines (1972-1975) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9876).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards (VW Group Technical Publication TP-1973).
Volkswagen Workshop Manual (Group 01)
Volkswagen ETKA Parts Catalogue
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/9876)
The Volkswagen AS was used across Volkswagen's Type 4 platform with rear-engine, rear-wheel-drive mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced engine mounts in the Porsche 914 for enhanced handling. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the crankcase, near the generator stand (VW Workshop Manual, Group 01). The AS can be visually identified by its single carburetor and distinctive air-cooling shroud with a large cooling fan on top. Critical differentiation from the earlier dual-carburetor Type 4 engines (e.g., EA): AS uses a single 34 PICT-3 carburetor. The engine case casting number for the AS is typically 041.
The AS's primary reliability consideration is maintaining correct oil temperature and level in its air-cooled system, with elevated risk during sustained high-speed operation. VW technical documentation notes that overheating is the leading cause of premature bearing wear, while diligent maintenance ensures exceptional longevity.
Analysis derived from Volkswagen technical service bulletins (1972-1975) and UK DVSA failure statistics (historical data). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VOLKSWAGEN AS.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
Independent Technical Reference
EngineCode.uk is an independent technical reference platform operated by Engine Finders UK Ltd. We are not affiliated with VOLKSWAGEN or any other manufacturer. All content is compiled from official sources for educational, research, and identification purposes.
Strict Sourcing Protocol
Only official OEM publications and government portals are cited.
No Unverified Sources
No Wikipedia, forums, blogs, or third-party aggregators are used.
Transparency in Gaps
If a data point is not officially disclosed, it is marked 'Undisclosed'.
Regulatory Stability
EU regulations are referenced using CELEX identifiers for long-term stability.
VOLKSWAGEN 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.
Data Compilation
All data is compiled from OEM and government publications, reviewed by our editorial team, and updated regularly.
Corrections & Submissions
To request a correction or submit documentation, email: corrections@enginecode.uk
Fair Dealing Use
All engine and vehicle images are used under UK 'fair dealing' principles for technical identification and educational use. Rights remain with their respective owners.
Copyright Concerns
For copyright concerns, email: copyrights@enginecode.uk
GDPR Compliance
EngineCode.uk complies with UK GDPR. We do not collect personal data unless explicitly provided.
Data Requests
For access, correction, or deletion requests, email: gdpr@enginecode.uk
Trademark Notice
All trademarks, logos, and engine codes are the property of their respective owners. Use on this site is strictly for reference and identification.
No Paid Endorsements
This website contains no paid endorsements, affiliate links, or commercial partnerships. We do not sell parts or services.
Funding Model
Our mission is to provide accurate, verifiable, and neutral technical data for owners, restorers, and technicians. This site is self-funded.
All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialVOLKSWAGEN documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed“ .
All external links open in new tabs. Please verify current availability of resources.
