23.3.2005
New 1.8-liter 140 hp gasoline engine to extend Opel engine line-up

Power output increase by up to 14 percent, fuel consumption decrease by about 4 percent, improved elasticity and enhanced refinement – these are the most important advantages of the brand-new 103 kW/140 hp 1.8-liter Opel ECOTEC gasoline engine compared with its same-displacement, 125-hp-predecessor. The highly efficient four-cylinder unit will debut this summer in the new Opel Zafira and be available in the Vectra and Signum, as well as other Opel models, in the near future.

The all-new four-valve engine features numerous technological highlights: Two continuously adjustable camshafts (DCVCP – Double Continuous Variable Cam Phasing) to optimize the charge cycle; a two-step intake manifold with a rotary sleeve instead of flaps to minimize flow losses; a highly efficient oil-water heat exchanger; a map-controlled thermostat; and a deep-drawn exhaust manifold with an integrated catalytic converter. With a power output 57 kW/l, the new 1.8 ECOTEC engine is one of the most powerful units in this displacement class. Ninety percent of the 175 Nm maximum torque is available over a wide range from 2200 to 6200 rpm, which ensures lively performance even at low engine speeds for relaxed everyday driving.

Mass reduction, achieved by consequent lightweight design, also contributes to the high efficiency of the engine. In spite of additional features, including DCVCP, the engineers succeeded in making the new engine three percent lighter than the previous version while achieving increased stiffness and structural strength through extensive stiffening measures in the head and block.

Unlike conventional engines, where the crankshaft and camshaft are mechanically linked in a fixed Crank Angle (CA) via a toothed belt or a chain, this engine allows the intake and exhaust cam to twist relative to the crankshaft. This is continuously varied on the new 1.8-liter engine, using an extremely compact, lightweight hydraulic vane type phaser. The variable range is 60° CA on the inlet side and 45° CA on the outlet side.

Depending on the engine’s speed and operating conditions, the valve timing can be selected for optimum performance or fuel consumption. Advantages of the double camshaft adjustment include higher power output and torque characteristics over a wide engine speed range due to optimized cylinder charging; reduced emissions thanks to high exhaust gas recirculation rates; and reduced fuel consumption owing to a de-throttled charge cycle.