Encyclopedia of engines: VW/Audi 1.6 MPI (gasoline)
Among Volkswagen Group gasoline engines, the 1.6 MPI engine has earned a reputation for being durable, simple and reliable. Despite some shortcomings, it has undeniable advantages. The only thing it really lacks is more power.
This very popular gasoline unit has been installed on many VW Group models for a long time - from the mid-90s to 2013. The engine was successfully installed mainly on compacts, but also got under the hood of B-segment and middle-class cars. where it is considered definitely too weak.
The characteristic feature of this unit is 8-valve cylinder head and indirect injection - there were also 16V and FSI variants that are based on this design but are considered completely different units. The power generated by the described 8V version is from 100 to 105 hp (with rare exceptions). This power is enough for C-segment cars, quite high for B-segment and too low for larger cars like VW Passat or Skoda Octavia.
Opinions about this engine are usually very good, but can be extreme. Some users rightly complain about poor dynamics and high fuel consumption (8-10 l / 100 km), others are just as correct they appreciate the cooperation with the LPG plant and… low fuel consumption. In cars with this unit, a lot depends on driving style, and in small cars you can reduce fuel consumption well below 7 l / 100 km.
Flaws? In addition to the described minor. Due to its age and the so-called maintenance-free (except for the timing belt), this engine is often neglected. Typical conditions are slight fogging and leaks, sometimes uneven operation due to a dirty throttle, excessive oil burnout. Nonetheless construction is very solid, rarely breaks down and stops the vehicle even less often. It also doesn't require high repair costs and handles poor maintenance well.
Advantages of the 1.6 MPI engine:
- High strength
- Low bounce rate
- Low repair costs
- Simplicity of construction
- Very cheap and widely available parts
- Excellent cooperation with LPG
Disadvantages of the 1.6 MPI engine:
- The highest average dynamics for cars from segment C
- Relatively high fuel consumption with heavier rider foot
- Often excessive consumption of oil
- Often works with 5 speed manual transmission (loud on the road)
