The Volkswagen DA is a 1,588 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1975 and 1983. It features a cast‑iron block and head, single overhead camshaft (SOHC), and 8 valves. In standard form it delivered 55 kW (75 PS) at 5,200 rpm and 123 Nm of torque at 3,000 rpm, providing dependable performance for compact VW models of the era.
Fitted to models such as the Golf Mk1, Jetta Mk1, and Scirocco Mk1, the DA was engineered for economical daily driving with straightforward mechanical reliability. Emissions compliance was achieved through a Pierburg 2E3 carburettor and secondary air injection system, allowing compliance with early Euro emissions precursors under national type approvals.
One documented concern is premature wear of the distributor drive gear, which can lead to ignition timing drift and misfire. This issue, referenced in Volkswagen Service Bulletin 01‑78‑04, is attributed to marginal case hardening in early production batches. From 1980, revised gears with improved metallurgy were introduced across the EA827 engine family.
Production years 1975–1983 meet national type approval standards predating Euro 1 (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/2145).
The Volkswagen DA is a 1,588 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for compact models (1975–1983). It combines SOHC 8‑valve architecture with carburetted fuel delivery to deliver reliable, economical performance. Designed before harmonised EU emissions standards, it complies with national type approvals of the period.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,588 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded or leaded, min. 91 RON) | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, SOHC, 8‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 81.0 mm × 77.0 mm | |
| Power output | 55 kW (75 PS) @ 5,200 rpm | |
| Torque | 123 Nm @ 3,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Pierburg 2E3 twin-choke carburettor | |
| Emissions standard | Pre-Euro (national type approval) | |
| Compression ratio | 8.2:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain (front‑mounted) | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W‑40 mineral oil (API SF/CC) | |
| Dry weight | 128 kg |
The SOHC 8-valve layout provides mechanical simplicity but requires periodic carburettor synchronization and distributor timing checks. Use of 91 RON minimum fuel is essential to prevent knock, especially in high-compression variants. The front-mounted timing chain is generally durable but should be inspected for stretch after 150,000 km. Revised distributor drive gears (part no. 021 905 205 B) should be installed if replacing worn units per SIB 01‑78‑04. Secondary air injection hoses are prone to cracking—inspect during emissions checks.
Oil Specs: Requires mineral oil meeting API SF/CC (Volkswagen TIS 01‑76‑03). Modern semi-synthetics meeting ACEA A3/B3 are acceptable if lead replacement additives are used for valve seat protection in unleaded operation.
Emissions: No Euro standard applies; engine certified under national type approval (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/2145).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output verified on VW dynamometer test bench per PT‑1982.
Volkswagen Technical Information System (TIS): Docs 01‑76‑03, 01‑78‑04
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/2145)
DIN 70020 Engine Power Measurement Standard
The Volkswagen DA was used across Volkswagen's Golf Mk1/Jetta Mk1/Scirocco Mk1 platforms with longitudinal mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—revised engine mounts in the Jetta and modified air cleaner assemblies in the Scirocco—and from 1980 the distributor drive gear material was upgraded, creating minor service part distinctions. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the rear face of the crankcase near the transmission flange (Volkswagen TIS 01‑76‑05). The 4th and 5th digits of the VIN (e.g., '17') indicate model line, while the engine code appears on the build sticker in the service book or spare wheel well. Pre-1980 DA engines use distributor drive gears with part number ending in 'A'; post-1980 units use 'B' suffix. Critical differentiation from similar DX engine: DA has 75 PS and Pierburg 2E3 carburettor; DX produces 70 PS with Solex carburettor. Timing chains are interchangeable, but distributor drive gears are not.
The DA's primary reliability risk is distributor drive gear wear in early builds, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or infrequently serviced vehicles. Volkswagen internal quality data from 1981 indicated a notable share of pre-1980 engines required ignition system service before 120,000 km, while UK DVSA records show carburettor imbalance as a common cause of emissions failure in preserved examples. Infrequent maintenance and use of low-octane fuel accelerate wear and deposit formation, making correct fuel and interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Volkswagen technical bulletins (1975–1983) and UK DVSA failure statistics (1990–2010). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
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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
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