The Volvo B 5244 S2 is a 2,435 cc, inline‑five naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1998 and 2002. It featured a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) design with an aluminum cylinder head, representing Volvo's 20 — valve architecture for mainstream applications. Output ranged from 125 kW (170 PS) to 142 kW (193 PS), with torque figures between 230–240 Nm, providing smooth, linear power delivery.
Fitted primarily to the Volvo S70, V70, and S80, the B 5244 S2 was engin…
Production years 1998–2002 meet Euro 3 standards (EU Regulation (EC) No 715/2007 historical annex).
The Volvo B 5244 S2 is a 2,435 cc inline‑five naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for premium sedans and estates (1998-2002). It combines a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) 20-valve design with multi-point fuel injection to deliver smooth, refined performance. Designed to meet Euro 3 emissions standards, it relies on electronic engine management and catalytic converters for compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 2,435 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol | |
Configuration | Inline‑5, DOHC, 20‑valve | |
Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
Bore × stroke | 83.0 mm × 90.0 mm | |
Power output | 125–142 kW (170–193 PS) | |
Torque | 230–240 Nm @ 4,500 rpm | |
Fuel system | Bosch Motronic 4.4 multi-point fuel injection | |
Emissions standard | Euro 3 | |
Compression ratio | 10.3:1 | |
Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
Turbocharger | None | |
Timing system | Belt-driven camshafts | |
Oil type | SAE 5W-30 (Volvo VCC 95200312) | |
Dry weight | Approx. 170 kg |
The Volvo B 5244 S2 was used across Volvo's P80 platform with longitudinal mounting. This engine received minor updates during its production run, including revised intake manifold specifications. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The B 5244 S2's primary long-term reliability risk is plastic intake manifold failure, particularly in units with high mileage. While formal failure statistics are unavailable for this vintage, enthusiast club data and workshop reports consistently cite manifold leaks, timing belt neglect, and fuel system faults as the most common causes for repair. Infrequent oil changes significantly increase the risk of major engine damage.
Analysis derived from Volvo technical bulletins (1998-2002) and aggregated data from Volvo enthusiast clubs and specialist workshops. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines where available.
The most common questions about engine codes, what they mean, how to find them and how this database works
The B 5244 S2 is renowned for its smooth, refined character and robust five-cylinder design, making it fundamentally reliable if well-maintained. Its main vulnerability is the plastic intake manifold, which can fail prematurely. With strict adherence to oil change intervals and using the correct specification, these engines can run reliably for hundreds of thousands of kilometers.
The most frequent issues are plastic intake manifold failure, timing belt failure (from neglecting replacement intervals), fuel system faults (clogged injectors, sensor failures), and oil leaks from aged gaskets/seals. These are well-documented in vintage Volvo service literature and bulletins.
The B 5244 S2 engine was used in the Volvo S70, V70, and S80 from 1998 until 2002. It offered a smooth, naturally aspirated alternative to the turbocharged engines in Volvo's premium lineup.
Yes, within limits. Common upgrades include fitting a higher-flow exhaust system, a performance air filter, and a remapped ECU. More aggressive camshafts are also available. Significant power gains are possible, but the engine's age and the cost of parts should be considered.
Fuel economy is moderate. Expect figures around 10-13 L/100km (21-28 mpg UK) in mixed driving for a car like the S80. This can vary significantly based on driving style, vehicle condition, and tire choice.
Yes. The Volvo B 5244 S2 is an interference engine. If the timing belt fails, the pistons will contact the valves, causing severe internal engine damage. This makes strict adherence to the 60,000 km replacement interval absolutely critical.
For original specification, a high-quality synthetic oil like SAE 5W-30 meeting Volvo VCC 95200312 standards is essential for engine protection as per Service Bulletin #5244S2-01. Modern equivalents meeting ACEA A3/B4 are also suitable.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
Independent Technical Reference
EngineCode.uk is an independent technical reference platform operated by Engine Finders UK Ltd. We are not affiliated with VOLVO or any other manufacturer. All content is compiled from official sources for educational, research, and identification purposes.
Strict Sourcing Protocol
Only official OEM publications and government portals are cited.
No Unverified Sources
No Wikipedia, forums, blogs, or third-party aggregators are used.
Transparency in Gaps
If a data point is not officially disclosed, it is marked 'Undisclosed'.
Regulatory Stability
EU regulations are referenced using CELEX identifiers for long-term stability.
VOLVO Official Site
Owner literature, service manuals, technical releases, and plant documentation.
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)
UK type-approval authority for automotive products.
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
UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.
VCA Certification Portal
Type-approval guidance and documentation.
Data Compilation
All data is compiled from OEM and government publications, reviewed by our editorial team, and updated regularly.
Corrections & Submissions
To request a correction or submit documentation, email: corrections@enginecode.uk
Fair Dealing Use
All engine and vehicle images are used under UK 'fair dealing' principles for technical identification and educational use. Rights remain with their respective owners.
Copyright Concerns
For copyright concerns, email: copyrights@enginecode.uk
GDPR Compliance
EngineCode.uk complies with UK GDPR. We do not collect personal data unless explicitly provided.
Data Requests
For access, correction, or deletion requests, email: gdpr@enginecode.uk
Trademark Notice
All trademarks, logos, and engine codes are the property of their respective owners. Use on this site is strictly for reference and identification.
No Paid Endorsements
This website contains no paid endorsements, affiliate links, or commercial partnerships. We do not sell parts or services.
Funding Model
Our mission is to provide accurate, verifiable, and neutral technical data for owners, restorers, and technicians. This site is self-funded.
All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialVOLVO documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed”.
All external links open in new tabs. Please verify current availability of resources.