From 1991 to 1998, the Mazda K8-ZE 1.8-liter V6 engine was manufactured in Japan and fitted to regional versions of well-known models like the Eunos, Efini MS-6, and Cronos. On the American and European markets, a deforced version with the K8-DE index was put in place.
K8-DE, KF-DE, KF-ZE, KJ-ZEM, KL-DE, KL-G4, and KL-ZE are all members of the K-engine family.
The engine was mounted on:
- Mazda Cronos GE in 1991 – 1994;
- Mazda Efini MS-6 GE in 1991 – 1994;
- Mazda Eunos 500 CA in 1991 – 1994;
- Mazda Eunos Presso EC in 1991 – 1998.
Specifications
| Production years | 1991-1998 |
| Displacement, cc | 1845 |
| Fuel system | distributed injection |
| Power output, hp | 140 – 145 |
| Torque output, Nm | 155 – 160 |
| Cylinder block | aluminum V6 |
| Block head | aluminum 24v |
| Cylinder bore, mm | 75 |
| Piston stroke, mm | 69.6 |
| Compression ratio | 9.5 |
| Features | DOHC, VRIS |
| Hydraulic lifters | yes |
| Timing drive | belt |
| Phase regulator | no |
| Turbocharging | no |
| Recommended engine oil | 5W-30 |
| Engine oil capacity, liter | 4.0 |
| Fuel type | petrol |
| Euro standards | EURO 3 |
| Fuel consumption, L/100 km (for Mazda Eunos 500 1993) — city — highway — combined |
10.3 7.0 8.7 |
| Engine lifespan, km | ~275 000 |
| Weight, kg | 167 (with attachments) |
Disadvantages of the Mazda K8-ZE engine
Because the cylinder block and cylinder head are made of aluminum, overheating is a major concern;
Additionally, after 150,000 kilometers, these power units frequently run out of oil; during the same run, lubricant leaks frequently occur from beneath the valve covers;
Every 100,000 kilometers, the timing belt is replaced, but when it breaks, the valves typically do not bend; hydraulic lifters can knock up to 50,000 kilometers and are not tolerant of cheap oil.