The Volvo B 5234 T4 is a 2,319 cc, inline‑five turbocharged petrol engine produced between 1994 and 1999. It features a cast‑iron block, aluminum head, dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), and multi-point fuel injection. This unit delivered 162 kW (220 PS) and 320 Nm of torque, engineered for exhilarating performance in Volvo’s sporty executive models.
Fitted primarily to the 850 T-5 and 850 R variants, the B 5234 T4 was designed for drivers seeking aggressive acceleration, high-revving power, and track-capable handling. Emissions compliance was achieved through catalytic converters and engine management, meeting Euro 2 standards across all markets.
One documented concern is premature failure of the turbocharger control valve, potentially leading to overboost conditions and engine damage. This issue, highlighted in Volvo Technical Service Bulletin 2‑96‑012, is often linked to vacuum hose degradation. In 1999, Volvo introduced the updated B5234T5 engine with revised turbo components.
Production years 1994–1999 meet Euro 2 emissions standards (Swedish Transport Agency Type Approval #STV/B5234/1994).
The Volvo B 5234 T4 is a 2,319 cc inline‑five turbocharged petrol engine engineered for high-performance sedans and wagons (1994-1999). It combines a unique five-cylinder architecture with DOHC and a low-inertia turbocharger to deliver strong mid-range torque and high-revving power. Designed to meet Euro 2 emissions standards, it balances track-capable performance with everyday drivability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,319 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑5, DOHC, 20‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 81.0 mm × 90.0 mm | |
| Power output | 162 kW (220 PS) @ 5,300 rpm | |
| Torque | 320 Nm @ 2,700–5,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi-point fuel injection (Bosch Motronic 4.4) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 2 | |
| Compression ratio | 8.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Low-inertia turbo (Garrett T25) | |
| Timing system | Belt-driven dual overhead camshafts | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-40 (API SG/CC) | |
| Dry weight | 160 kg |
The turbocharged inline-five design provides exhilarating acceleration and a distinctive exhaust note but requires strict adherence to 60,000 km timing belt replacement intervals to prevent failure. The low-inertia turbo delivers minimal lag but is sensitive to vacuum leaks and oil contamination. The non-interference design provides a safety margin if the belt fails. Regular inspection of vacuum hoses and the turbo control valve per Volvo TSB 2-96-012 is critical for reliability.
Oil Specs: Requires API SG/CC specification oil (SAE 10W-40) for optimal turbo and bearing protection (Volvo TSB 2-96-012).
Emissions: Euro 2 certification applies to all models in this production period (Swedish Transport Agency #STV/B5234/1994).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE net standards. Output is consistent across 850 T-5/R applications (Volvo Tech Spec 1994).
Volvo Workshop Manual (1994)
Volvo Technical Specification Sheet (1994)
Volvo Technical Service Bulletin 2-96-012
Swedish Transport Agency Type Approval #STV/B5234/1994
The Volvo B 5234 T4 was used across Volvo's 850 platform with transverse mounting. This engine received minor ECU and emissions revisions over its lifespan, creating minor interchange limits for electronic components. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on a flat pad on the front of the engine block, near the timing cover (Volvo Workshop Manual 1994). The code will read "B5234T4". Visual identification: Cast iron block, aluminum cylinder head with two cam covers, timing belt cover on the front, and a prominent Garrett T25 turbocharger on the exhaust manifold. Critical differentiation from B5254T: B5234T4 has a 2.3L displacement (81.0mm bore) vs 2.5L (83.0mm bore). Critical differentiation from naturally aspirated B5234S: B5234T4 has a turbocharger and intercooler. Ancillary parts may vary by year; consult EPC for exact fitment.
The B 5234 T4's primary reliability risk is failure of the turbocharger control valve, as documented in Volvo TSB 2-96-012. This can lead to dangerous overboost conditions and potential engine damage. While the engine's mechanical components are robust, neglecting the 60,000 km timing belt interval remains a critical secondary risk, though the non-interference design prevents catastrophic damage if it fails.
Analysis derived from Volvo technical service bulletins (1994-1999) and historical workshop manual data. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VOLVO B-5234-T4.
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EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.
DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
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.
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