The Volvo B 18 KP is a 1,778 cc, inline‑four petrol engine produced between 1972 and 1975. It features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) design with an 8-valve cylinder head and a twin-choke carburettor, delivering outputs around 74 kW (100 PS). This engine provided a balance of performance and reliability for its era, with its robust mechanical design ensuring ease of maintenance for spirited everyday drivability.
Fitted primarily to the Volvo 140 Series (142, 144, 145) and early 240 Series during its production run, the B 18 KP was engineered for durability and smooth operation in family sedans and wagons. Emissions compliance for its time was managed through engine tuning and the carburettor setup, allowing it to meet prevailing national standards before stringent Euro norms were established.
One documented concern is wear in the distributor drive gear, a known issue carried over from the earlier B18/B20 lineage and noted in Volvo's internal service documentation for the 140/240 Series. This potential failure point is often attributed to material fatigue over extended mileage. The B 18 KP was eventually superseded by the more powerful B 20 engine family in Volvo's lineup.
Production years 1972–1975 predate formal EU emissions standards. Compliance was governed by national regulations applicable at time of manufacture (Swedish Transport Agency Historical Records).
The Volvo B 18 KP is a 1,778 cc inline‑four petrol engine engineered for mid-size sedans and wagons (1972-1975). It combines a single overhead camshaft with a twin-choke carburettor to deliver smooth, linear power delivery. Designed for the pre-catalytic converter era, it prioritized mechanical simplicity and serviceability over emissions control.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,778 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, SOHC, 8‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 88.9 mm × 71.12 mm | |
| Power output | 74 kW (100 PS) @ 5,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 148 Nm @ 3,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Twin-choke downdraft carburettor | |
| Emissions standard | Pre-Euro (National Standards) | |
| Compression ratio | 9.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven SOHC | |
| Oil type | SAE 20W-50 (Mineral) | |
| Dry weight | 135 kg |
The SOHC design offers smooth, predictable power but requires periodic valve clearance adjustment every 10,000 km to maintain performance and prevent valve train noise. Using a high-quality mineral oil (SAE 20W-50) is critical due to its compatibility with older engine seals and bearing materials. The points-type ignition system demands regular inspection and replacement of points and condenser. The carburettor should be cleaned and synchronized annually to ensure optimal fuel mixture and prevent hesitation. Distributor drive gear wear, as noted in Volvo service notes, is a known longevity concern on high-mileage examples.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 20W-50 mineral oil specification (Volvo Owner's Manual 140/240 Series). Modern synthetic oils may not be suitable without seal compatibility checks.
Emissions: Pre-dates formal EU emissions standards. Compliance was based on national regulations (Swedish Transport Agency Historical Records).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE gross horsepower standards common for the era (Volvo Technical Specification Sheet B18).
Volvo Workshop Manual: 140/240 Series (1972-1975)
Volvo Technical Specification Sheet: Engine B18
Volvo EPC Archive: Doc. VEP-1972
Swedish Transport Agency: Historical Vehicle Regulations
The Volvo B 18 KP was used across Volvo's 140 and early 240 Series platform with longitudinal mounting. This engine received minor running changes throughout its production, including updates to the carburettor and ignition components, but no major facelifts created significant interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the flat pad on the left-hand side of the engine block, just below the cylinder head (Volvo Workshop Manual 140/240 Series). The code will read "B18KP" followed by the serial number. Visually, it is identifiable by its single camshaft cover and the twin-choke carburettor mounted centrally on the intake manifold. Differentiation from the larger B20 engine is clear by displacement (1.8L vs 2.0L) and the absence of the B20's distinctive "hump" on the exhaust manifold flange. Service parts are generally consistent across the 1972-1975 production run, though carburettor jets and ignition components may vary by model year.
The B 18 KP's primary reliability risk is wear in the distributor drive gear, with elevated incidence in high-mileage examples. Volvo service documentation notes this as a common failure point after 150,000 km, while general owner experience highlights carburettor maintenance as a frequent need. Extended periods of inactivity or infrequent oil changes can accelerate internal wear, making preventative maintenance critical.
Analysis derived from Volvo technical bulletins (1972-1975) and Swedish Transport Agency historical service data. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VOLVO B-18-KP.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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