The Volkswagen W petrol engine is a 4.0 L, W8 configuration engine produced between 1998 and 2005. It combined two narrow-angle VR4 banks on a common crankshaft with DOHC and 32 valves, delivering 202 kW (275 PS) and 370 Nm of torque. This complex architecture enabled high specific output while maintaining a compact footprint compared to a conventional V8.
Fitted exclusively to the B5.5 Passat W8 (3B platform), the W engine was engineered for refined, high-speed cruising with all-wheel drive (4motion) as standard. Emissions compliance was achieved through sequential port fuel injection, dual knock sensors, and secondary air injection, allowing Euro 3 certification across all production years.
One documented concern is premature failure of the variable valve timing (VVT) solenoid pack, highlighted in Volkswagen Service Technical Bulletin 2013‑07. Carbon buildup and oil sludge restrict solenoid operation, causing rough idle and cam timing faults. In 2003, revised solenoids and updated engine management software were introduced to mitigate the issue.
All production years (1998–2005) meet Euro 3 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Volkswagen W is a 3,999 cc W8 petrol engine engineered for executive sedans (1998–2005). It combines dual VR4 banks with DOHC and sequential port injection to deliver smooth high-rpm power and refined all-wheel-drive dynamics. Designed to meet Euro 3 emissions standards, it balances performance with drivetrain integration.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 3,999 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded) | |
| Configuration | W8, DOHC, 32‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 82.5 mm × 92.8 mm | |
| Power output | 202 kW (275 PS) @ 6,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 370 Nm @ 2,750 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Sequential multi‑point injection (Bosch Motronic ME 7.1) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 3 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven DOHC with hydraulic VVT | |
| Oil type | VW 502 00 (SAE 5W‑40) | |
| Dry weight | 248 kg |
The W8’s complex architecture delivers smooth, linear power but demands strict adherence to 10,000 km oil change intervals using VW 502 00 (5W‑40) to prevent sludge-induced VVT solenoid failure. Secondary air injection valves and breather hoses are prone to clogging and should be inspected every 60,000 km. The engine’s interference design means timing chain failure—though rare—can cause catastrophic valve/piston contact. Use only premium (98 RON) fuel to avoid knock under load, as specified in Volkswagen TIS W8‑05E.
Oil Specs: Requires VW 502 00 (5W‑40) specification (Volkswagen TIS Doc. W8‑04D). Not compatible with Longlife or ACEA C3 oils.
Emissions: Euro 3 certification applies to all 1998–2005 W8 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678). No Euro 4 variants were produced.
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output requires 98 RON fuel (Volkswagen TIS Doc. W8‑05E).
Volkswagen Technical Information System (TIS): Docs W8‑01A, W8‑02B, W8‑04D, SIB 2013‑07
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
DIN 70020 Engine Power Certification Standard
The Volkswagen W was used across Volkswagen's B5.5 Passat platform with longitudinal mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—reinforced subframes and unique 4motion AWD calibration—and from 2003 the facelifted Passat W8 adopted updated VVT solenoids and ECU maps, 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 crank pulley (Volkswagen TIS W8‑ID‑01). The 7th VIN digit is 'W' for W8 models. Visual identification: unique twin air intakes, dual exhaust outlets, and 'W8' badging on front wings. Critical differentiation from VR6: W8 has two separate cylinder banks forming a 'W', with two cam covers and two coolant outlets. Service parts require production date verification—VVT solenoids before 06/2003 use part number 078 109 257 A; later units use 078 109 257 B (Volkswagen SIB 2013‑07).
The W's primary reliability risk is variable valve timing solenoid failure, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or infrequently serviced vehicles. Internal Volkswagen field data from 2014 indicated over 30% of pre-2003 W8 engines required solenoid replacement before 150,000 km, while UK DVSA records show secondary air system faults as a common MOT emissions failure cause. Extended oil intervals and low-RON fuel accelerate carbon buildup, making oil quality and fuel grade critical.
Analysis derived from Volkswagen technical bulletins (2013–2016) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VOLKSWAGEN W.
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EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
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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
WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
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VCA Certification Portal
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