The Volkswagen SB 1.6 TD 1.6-liter diesel engine was manufactured between 1989 and 1993 and was found in a number of the company’s models, most notably the Passat B3. Because it had an intercooler, this turbodiesel was the most powerful in its class.
JK, JP, JX, SB, 1X, 1Y, AAZ, and ABL are also included in the EA086 series.
Specifications
| Production years | 1989-1993 |
| Displacement, cc | 1588 |
| Fuel system | prechambers |
| Power output, hp | 80 |
| Torque output, Nm | 152 |
| Cylinder block | cast iron R4 |
| Block head | aluminum 8v |
| Cylinder bore, mm | 76.5 |
| Piston stroke, mm | 86.4 |
| Compression ratio | 23.0 |
| Features | SOHC, intercooler |
| Hydraulic lifters | yes |
| Timing drive | belt |
| Phase regulator | no |
| Turbocharging | yes |
| Recommended engine oil | 5W-40 |
| Engine oil capacity, liter | 4.0 |
| Fuel type | diesel |
| Euro standards | EURO 0 |
| Fuel consumption, L/100 km (for VW Passat 1990) — city — highway — combined |
7.4 5.1 6.0 |
| Engine lifespan, km | ~330 000 |
The engine was installed on:
- Audi 80 B3 (8A) in 1989 – 1991;
- Audi 90 B3 (8A) in 1989 – 1991;
- Volkswagen Golf 2 (1G) in 1989 – 1991;
- Volkswagen Jetta 2 (1G) in 1989 – 1991;
- Volkswagen Passat B3 (31) in 1989 – 1993.
Disadvantages of the VW SB engine
Cylinder head cracks are the most well-known issue, but they can be tolerated for a long time;
This high-pressure fuel pump frequently leaks, so it’s best to keep an eye on it;
Regulations state that the timing belt must be changed every 60,000 kilometers, and when it breaks, the valves bend; the turbine and intermediate shaft bushings require maintenance closer to 200,000 kilometers; on lengthy runs, an oil burner and lubricant leaks from a few locations are frequently discovered.