The Volvo B 4204 T33 is a 1,984 cc, inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine produced between 1995 and 1998. It features a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) design with a 16-valve cylinder head and Bosch Motronic electronic fuel injection, delivering outputs around 162 kW (220 PS). This engine offered high-performance driving for its era, using variable valve timing and a low-inertia turbocharger to provide strong mid-range torque and responsive power delivery.
Fitted primarily to the limited-edition Volvo 850 (850 T-5R '96, 850 R '97) and early S/V70 R models, the B 4204 T33 was engineered for enthusiasts seeking maximum performance in premium compact executive vehicles. Emissions compliance was achieved through closed-loop lambda control and a three-way catalytic converter, allowing it to meet Euro 2 standards across its production run.
One documented concern is premature failure of the turbocharger’s oil feed line, which can lead to bearing seizure. This issue, highlighted in Volvo Service Bulletin 113-1996, is often linked to internal coking from extended oil change intervals. In 1996, Volvo introduced a revised oil line design to mitigate this failure mode.
Production years 1995–1998 meet Euro 2 emissions standards (Swedish Transport Agency Type Approval #STA/B4204T33/95).
The Volvo B 4204 T33 is a 1,984 cc inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine engineered for premium performance variants (1995-1998). It combines dual overhead camshafts with Bosch Motronic 4.4 electronic fuel injection and a low-inertia turbocharger to deliver responsive, linear power. Designed to meet Euro 2 emissions standards, it balances high performance with regulatory compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,984 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 83.0 mm × 92.0 mm | |
| Power output | 162 kW (220 PS) @ 5,700 rpm | |
| Torque | 300 Nm @ 2,700 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch Motronic 4.4 electronic fuel injection | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 2 | |
| Compression ratio | 8.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Garrett GT15E low-inertia turbo with wastegate | |
| Timing system | Belt-driven DOHC | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-30 (Synthetic) | |
| Dry weight | 140 kg |
The DOHC turbo design provides responsive, linear power ideal for spirited driving but requires strict adherence to 10,000 km oil change intervals to prevent turbocharger oil feed line coking and bearing failure. SAE 10W-30 synthetic oil is critical due to its thermal stability under boost conditions. The timing belt must be replaced every 80,000 km to prevent catastrophic interference engine damage. Post-1996 models feature a revised oil feed line; pre-1996 units should have the upgrade per Volvo Service Bulletin 113-1996.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 10W-30 synthetic oil specification (Volvo Service Bulletin 113-1996).
Emissions: Euro 2 certification applies to all 1995-1998 models (Swedish Transport Agency Type Approval #STA/B4204T33/95).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output requires 98 RON premium fuel (Volvo Technical Specification Sheet B4204).
Volvo Technical Information System (TIS): Docs VEP-1995, B4204 Spec Sheet
Volvo Workshop Manual: 850 R/S70 R Series
Swedish Transport Agency Type Approval Database (STA/B4204T33/95)
Volvo Service Bulletin 113-1996
The Volvo B 4204 T33 was used across Volvo's 850 and P80 platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received running changes throughout its production, including the revised turbo oil feed line in 1996, creating interchange limits for pre-facelift components. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the flat pad on the front of the cylinder block, near the timing belt cover (Volvo Workshop Manual 850 R/S70 R). The code will read "B4204T33" followed by the serial number. Visually, it is identifiable by its red plastic camshaft cover with "VOLVO TURBO" lettering and the Garrett GT15E turbocharger mounted at the rear of the engine. Critical differentiation from the B4204T11 engine is the specific ECU mapping and higher power output. Service parts require production date verification - turbo oil feed lines for engines before 06/1996 are incompatible with later units due to internal diameter revision (Volvo Service Bulletin 113-1996).
The B 4204 T33's primary reliability risk is turbocharger failure due to oil feed line coking, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or poorly maintained examples. Volvo service documentation notes this as a common failure point after 120,000 km, while general owner experience highlights the critical importance of oil quality and change intervals. Extended periods of high boost or infrequent oil changes can accelerate turbo bearing wear, making preventative maintenance critical.
Analysis derived from Volvo technical bulletins (1995-1998) and Swedish Transport Agency historical service data. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VOLVO B-4204-T33.
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