The first two iterations of the compact 121 model and the comparable Kia Pride were equipped with the 1.1-liter 8-valve Mazda B1 engine, which was manufactured in Korea and Japan between 1987 and 1994. On the European market, there was a version with an injector in addition to the carburetor modification.
B1, B3, B3-ME, B5, B5-DE, B5-ME, B6, B6-ME, B6-DE, BP, and BP-ME are all members of the B-engine family.
The engine was mounted on:
- Mazda 121 DA in 1987 – 1991;
- Mazda 121 DB in 1991 – 1994;
- Kia Pride 1 (DA) in 1987 – 1994.
Specifications
| Production years | 1987-1994 |
| Displacement, cc | 1138 |
| Fuel system | carburetor / injector |
| Power output, hp | 50 – 55 |
| Torque output, Nm | 80 – 90 |
| Cylinder block | cast iron R4 |
| Block head | aluminum 8v |
| Cylinder bore, mm | 68 |
| Piston stroke, mm | 78.4 |
| Compression ratio | 8.6 – 9.2 |
| Features | SOHC |
| Hydraulic lifters | no |
| Timing drive | belt |
| Phase regulator | no |
| Turbocharging | no |
| Recommended engine oil | 5W-30 |
| Engine oil capacity, liter | 3.0 |
| Fuel type | petrol |
| Euro standards | EURO 1 |
| Fuel consumption, L/100 km (for Mazda 121 1989) — city — highway — combined |
7.5 5.2 6.3 |
| Engine lifespan, km | ~220 000 |
| Weight, kg | 112.5 |
Disadvantages of the Mazda B1 1.1l engine
Although carburetor-equipped engine versions are challenging to install, an analog is typically already available;
Although injector-based modifications are more dependable, they frequently have floating speed issues;
They complain about low spark plug life and lubricant leaks on specialized forums;
The timing belt is supposed to change every 60,000 kilometers, but the valves do not bend when it breaks. Since there are no hydraulic lifters, the valves must be adjusted every 50,000 kilometers.