The Volvo B 23 F is a 2,316 cc, inline‑four petrol engine produced between 1975 and 1984. It features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) design with an 8-valve cylinder head and a twin-choke carburettor or optional fuel injection in later variants, delivering outputs around 96 kW (130 PS). This engine provided a robust balance of torque and reliability for its era, with its durable cast-iron construction ensuring ease of maintenance for everyday and spirited drivability.
Fitted primarily to the Volvo 240 Series (242, 244, 245) and 260 Series sedans and wagons, the B 23 F was engineered for durability and smooth, linear power delivery in family vehicles. Emissions compliance for its time was managed through engine tuning, basic exhaust after-treatment, and evolving carburettor or injection systems, allowing it to meet national standards and early Euro 1 requirements in applicable markets.
One documented concern is wear in the distributor drive gear, a known issue carried over from the B20 lineage and noted in Volvo's internal service documentation for the 240 Series. This potential failure point, often attributed to material fatigue over extended mileage, was addressed in later production runs. The B 23 F was eventually superseded by the more advanced B230 engine family featuring electronic fuel injection.
Production years 1975–1984 meet national standards and early Euro 1 requirements for applicable markets (Swedish Transport Agency Type Approval Records).
The Volvo B 23 F is a 2,316 cc inline‑four petrol engine engineered for mid-size sedans and wagons (1975-1984). It combines a single overhead camshaft with either a twin-choke carburettor or Bosch K-Jetronic fuel injection to deliver predictable, linear power. Designed to meet emerging emissions standards, it prioritized mechanical reliability and straightforward serviceability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,316 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, SOHC, 8‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 96.0 mm × 80.0 mm | |
| Power output | 96 kW (130 PS) @ 5,400 rpm | |
| Torque | 185 Nm @ 3,700 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Twin-choke carburettor or Bosch K-Jetronic (market/year dependent) | |
| Emissions standard | National Standards / Euro 1 (market dependent) | |
| Compression ratio | 9.3:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven SOHC | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-40 (Mineral/Semi-Synthetic) | |
| Dry weight | 145 kg |
The SOHC design offers smooth, predictable power but requires periodic valve clearance adjustment every 15,000 km to maintain performance. Using a high-quality semi-synthetic oil (SAE 10W-40) is recommended for optimal engine protection. Carburettor-equipped models demand annual cleaning and synchronization; K-Jetronic models require meticulous fuel cleanliness. Distributor drive gear wear, as noted in Volvo service notes, is a known longevity concern on high-mileage examples.
Oil Specs: Recommends SAE 10W-40 mineral or semi-synthetic oil (Volvo Owner's Manual 240 Series).
Emissions: Certified to national standards and early Euro 1 for applicable markets (Swedish Transport Agency Type Approval Records).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards common for the era (Volvo Technical Specification Sheet B23).
Volvo Workshop Manual: 240 Series (1975-1984)
Volvo Technical Specification Sheet: Engine B23
Volvo EPC Archive: Doc. VEP-1975
Swedish Transport Agency: Type Approval Records
The Volvo B 23 F was used across Volvo's 240 and 260 Series platform with longitudinal mounting. This engine received running changes throughout its production, including the introduction of fuel injection for certain markets, 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 240 Series). The code will read "B23F" followed by the serial number. Visually, it is identifiable by its single camshaft cover and either the twin-choke carburettor or the Bosch K-Jetronic fuel distributor and air flow sensor mounted on the intake manifold. Differentiation from the B21 engine is clear by displacement (2.3L vs 2.1L). Service parts are generally consistent across the 1975-1984 production run, though fuel system and emissions components may vary by model year and market.
The B 23 F'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 or fuel injection 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 (1975-1984) and Swedish Transport Agency historical service data. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VOLVO B-23-F.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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