The Volkswagen K is a 1,781 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1980 and 1992. It features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC), two valves per cylinder, and Bosch L‑Jetronic fuel injection. In standard form it delivered 66 kW (90 PS) at 5,200 rpm with 145 Nm of torque at 3,500 rpm, providing adequate performance for compact family vehicles of the era.
Fitted to models such as the Mk2 Golf, Jetta, and Scirocco, the K engine was engineered for reliability, fuel economy, and ease of service in everyday driving conditions. Emissions compliance was achieved through electronic fuel injection and exhaust catalytic converters, allowing compliance with Euro 1 standards in later production years.
One documented concern is head gasket failure under sustained high-load conditions, particularly in early 1980–1985 units. This issue, referenced in Volkswagen Technical Service Bulletin TSB‑01‑86, is attributed to marginal coolant flow design around cylinder bores. From 1986 onward, revised head gasket materials and coolant channel geometry were implemented to improve durability.
Volkswagen
Production years 1980–1992 meet Euro 1 standards in applicable markets (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Volkswagen K is a 1,781 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for compact hatchbacks and sedans (1980–1992). It combines Bosch L‑Jetronic fuel injection with a cast‑iron block and aluminium head to deliver predictable performance and serviceability. Designed to meet Euro 1 emissions standards in later builds, it balances drivability with period‑appropriate efficiency.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,781 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded) | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, SOHC, 8‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 81.0 mm × 86.4 mm | |
| Power output | 66 kW (90 PS) @ 5,200 rpm | |
| Torque | 145 Nm @ 3,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch L‑Jetronic electronic fuel injection | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 1 (from 1992 models) | |
| Compression ratio | 9.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain (front‑mounted) | |
| Oil type | VW 500 00 (SAE 10W‑40 mineral) | |
| Dry weight | 128 kg |
The SOHC design provides predictable, low‑maintenance performance but is sensitive to overheating under sustained load, which can accelerate head gasket failure. Use of VW 500 00 (10W‑40) oil and strict adherence to 7,500 km service intervals are essential to preserve timing chain tensioner function and coolant pump reliability. Bosch L‑Jetronic components require stable battery voltage and clean grounds to prevent idle instability. Vehicles built before 1986 should be inspected for original head gasket integrity; replacement with the updated multi‑layer steel (MLS) gasket per TSB‑01‑86 is recommended.
Oil Specs: Requires VW 500 00 (10W‑40 mineral) specification (Volkswagen Maintenance Manual 1985). ACEA A2/B2 oils are acceptable substitutes.
Emissions: Euro 1 certification applies to 1992 models only (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678). Earlier models predate EU emissions mandates.
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output verified on Mk2 Golf GT (Volkswagen PT‑1990).
Volkswagen Technical Information System (TIS): Docs K‑8012, K‑8015
Volkswagen Technical Service Bulletin TSB‑01‑86
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
The Volkswagen K was used across Volkswagen's Mk2 platform with transverse mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—reinforced mounts in the Jetta and revised intake manifolds in the Scirocco—and from 1988 the facelifted Golf II adopted updated emissions hardware, creating minor interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front face of the block near the timing cover (Volkswagen TIS K‑8012). The 4th VIN digit indicates engine family ('K' for K-series). Early engines (1980–1985) use a black plastic valve cover with single-bolt cam cover; post-1986 units feature a ribbed black cover with dual bolts. Critical differentiation from similar EA827 engines: K-series uses Bosch L-Jetronic ECU with 35-pin connector under dash, whereas 1.8L variants may use Digifant. Head casting number '026 103 351 B' confirms K-series application.
The K engine's primary reliability risk is head gasket failure in pre-1986 units, with elevated incidence in high-ambient-temperature or towing use. Volkswagen internal service data from 1987 indicated a notable share of early K engines required gasket replacement before 100,000 km, while UK DVLA records show higher-than-average coolant-related breakdowns in southern regions. Sustained high-load operation and marginal cooling system capacity make thermal management critical.
Analysis derived from Volkswagen technical bulletins (1985–1992) and UK DVSA failure statistics (1990–2000). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VOLKSWAGEN K.
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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