GM Family II engine
| Company type | Internal combustion engine |
|---|---|
| Industry | Automotive |
| Founded | 1981 |
| Founder | Opel |
| Products | Straight-4 piston engines (1.6 L to 2.4 L) |
| Parent | General Motors |
The Family II is a straight-4 piston engine developed by Opel during the 1970s and introduced to the market in 1981. Offering displacements ranging from 1598 to 2405 cc, it succeeded the Opel CIH and Vauxhall Slant-4, becoming the primary mid-size power unit for GM Europe throughout the 1980s and serving as the foundation for the subsequent GM Ecotec engine series.
This engine shared several design characteristics with the smaller GM Family 1 engine, which spanned from 1.0 to 1.6 liters. Informally, Family II was dubbed the "big block" in contrast to the "small block" Family I, with some displacement overlap at 1.6 L depending on the fuel system configuration.
Additionally, the Family II architecture was adapted into two diesel variants with capacities of 1.6 L and 1.7 L.
Constructed with a cast iron block and aluminium cylinder head, it employed a timing belt-driven valvetrain that also powered the water pump. The Family II made its first appearances in vehicles such as the Opel Kadett D, Opel Ascona C, along with their Vauxhall equivalents—the Astra and Cavalier II. Production was undertaken by GM subsidiaries including Daewoo Motors, GM do Brasil, GM Powertrain, and Holden.
Holden manufactured European and Australasian versions of the Family II engines at its Fisherman's Bend facility in Melbourne up until 2009, while production for the Americas was carried out at São José dos Campos in Brazil.
By 1986, the Family II had almost entirely supplanted the CIH as Opel/Vauxhall’s principal four-cylinder engine, with the CIH remaining only in select 2.4L four-cylinder and six-cylinder models such as the Opel Omega and Opel Senator until 1994.
In 1987, development diverged with the introduction of the 20XE, which featured a DOHC 16-valve cylinder head; Holden ceased manufacturing SOHC variants in 2009, whereas Brazilian production of SOHC versions persisted for a longer period. Most DOHC engines were ultimately replaced by the all-aluminium Ecotec engine family.
A notable development occurred in 2004 with the launch of a 2.0 L MultiPower model aimed at taxi operators, capable of running on gasoline, alcohol, or natural gas.
SOHC
The SOHC engines formed the backbone of the initial Family II range, starting with the 16SH (1600S) variant introduced in the Opel Kadett D/Ascona C (Vauxhall Astra Mk1/Cavalier Mk2) in 1981. This design featured a single overhead camshaft operating two valves per cylinder arranged in a crossflow configuration (totaling eight valves). Although it bore visual similarities to the smaller Family I "small block," a key identifying trait is the location of the oil filter—on Family I engines it is mounted forward on the cylinder block, whereas on Family II it is positioned beside the crankshaft pulley pointing downward. The Family II also utilized an enhanced crankcase ventilation system incorporating additional piping between the crankcase and camshaft housing as well as from a plenum chamber situated on the rocker cover.
The initial 1.8-liter models appeared as carburetted units (18N) in 1982, later evolving into fuel-injected versions (18LE) among others. The 2.0-liter 20NE was released in 1986 for models such as the Opel Omega A (Vauxhall Carlton Mk2) and Ascona C3 (Vauxhall Cavalier Mk2c), forming the basis for upgraded variants like the 20SEH and eventually leading to the high-performance 20XE/C20XE "Red Top." The last iterations, marketed under Ecotec, also trace their origins to this engine lineage.
Early Family II engines experienced accelerated wear of camshafts and followers, particularly affecting Kadett D/Astra I and Ascona C/Cavalier II models. This issue was resolved through advances in metallurgy and revised lubrication standards.
Another challenge involved water pump failure due to corrosion when engines operated without antifreeze coolant. Because this pump also functioned as the timing belt tensioner via an eccentric mounting, seizure prevented proper belt tensioning. Subsequent versions mitigated this problem by introducing an independent jockey pulley.
1.6
The 1.6-liter engine () was introduced in 1980, characterized by its bore and stroke dimensions. A diesel version produced at 4600 rpm with torque reaching at 2400 rpm, featuring a high compression ratio of 23:1 and equipped with a Bosch injection pump. This engine incorporated rotating valves designed to improve longevity.
| Engine | Power | Torque | Compression Ratio | Fuel Delivery | Engine Management | Applications |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 16LF | 72 hp (53 kW) at 5200 rpm (Ethanol)
73 hp (54 kW) at 5400 rpm (Gasoline) |
12.6 kgfm (124 Nm) at 2600 rpm (Ethanol)
12.3 kgfm (121 Nm) at 3000 rpm (Gasoline) |
12:1 (Ethanol)
8:1 (Gasoline) |
Single barrel carburetor Weber 190 or Brosol H35 Alfa1
Compatible with Ethanol and Gasoline |
| |
| 16SH | 66 kilowatts (89 hp) at 5800 rpm | 126 newton-metres (93 lbf⋅ft) at 3800–4200 rpm | GM Varajett II | Opel Kadett D Opel Ascona C Opel Kadett E | ||
| 16D/16DA | 40 kilowatts (54 hp) at 4600 rpm | 96 newton-metres (71 lbf⋅ft) at 2400 rpm | Bosch VE |
|
1.7
The 1.7-liter engine () has a bore of and stroke of , operating on diesel fuel with an indirect injection system.
| Engine | Power | Torque | Compression Ratio | Fuel Delivery | Engine Management | Applications |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 17D | 42 kilowatts (56 hp) | 105 newton-metres (77 lbf⋅ft) at 2400 rpm | 23:1 | Bosch injection pump | Mechanical Indirect |
|
| 17DR | 44 kilowatts (59 hp) | 105 newton-metres (77 lbf⋅ft) at 2650 rpm | 23:1 | Lucas injection pump | Mechanical Indirect |
|
| X17DTL | 50 kilowatts (67 hp) | 132 newton-metres (97 lbf⋅ft) at 2400 rpm | 22:1 | Various systems | Mechanical Indirect | 1994-2000 Opel Astra |
1.8
The 1796 cc, or 1.8-liter engine, features an 84.8 mm bore paired with a 79.5 mm stroke. It was first introduced in the refreshed Opel Manta B in May 1982 and subsequently adopted by numerous Opel and GM models. Initially available as the 18N and 18S variants for low and high octane fuels respectively, the C18NV version appeared in the Opel Rekord E2 starting May 1985, marking one of Germany's early mass-produced engines equipped with catalytic converters. The longitudinal Family II series engines are distinct in that the distributor is driven by a small belt connected to the camshaft timing sprocket, allowing easy installation in rear-wheel drive vehicles such as the Manta B and Rekord E2 without firewall modifications.
In North America, the engine was introduced in the J-car platform in 1983, sourced from Brazil. The turbocharged variant identified by the RPO code LA5 was offered from 1984 onwards.
| Engine | Power | Torque | Compression Ratio | Fuel Delivery | Engine Management | Applications |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 18E
S18E |
115 PS (85 kW) at 5800 rpm | 151 Nm at 4800 rpm | 9.5:1 | Multipoint fuel injection | (Bosch LE-Jetronic) | 1982–1986 Opel Ascona, Opel Kadett D, Opel Kadett E |
| 18LE | 79 kW (106 hp) at 5600 rpm (catalyst) | 151 Nm at 3600 rpm | 8.8:1 | Multipoint fuel injection | 1984–mid 1986 Holden Camira (JD), 1987–1991 Nissan Pulsar (N13) (Australia), 1987–1989 Holden Astra (LD), 1990–1998 Daewoo Espero | |
| 18N | 62 kW at 5400 rpm | 135 Nm at 3000 rpm | 8.2:1 | Pierburg 2E3 carburetor | 1987–1988 Opel Ascona, Opel Rekord E2 | |
| E18NV | 62 kW at 5400 rpm | 143 Nm at 2600 rpm | 9.2:1 | Pierburg 2EE carburetor | Opel Manta B, Opel Rekord E, Opel Ascona C3, Opel Vectra A (1988–1989) | |
| C18NE | 100 PS (74 kW) at 5800 rpm | 140 Nm at 3000 rpm | 8.9:1 | Multipoint fuel injection | (Bosch LU-Jetronic) | 1985–1986 Opel Ascona C, Opel Kadett E |
| C18NZ | 66 kW at 5400 rpm | 145 Nm at 3000 rpm | 9.2:1 | Monopoint fuel injection | (Multec) | 1990–1991 Opel Kadett, 1992–1994 Opel Astra, 1992–1994 Vauxhall Astra, 1992–1995 Vauxhall Cavalier, 1992–1995 Opel Vectra |
| LH8 | 84 hp (63 kW) at 5200 rpm | 138 Nm at 2800 rpm | 9:1 | Throttle-body fuel injection | 1982–1986 Pontiac Sunbird, Buick Skyhawk, Oldsmobile Firenza | |
| LA5 | 150 hp (112 kW) at 5600 rpm | 204 Nm at 2800 rpm | 8:1 | Multi-port fuel injection, turbocharged | 1984–1986 Pontiac Sunbird, Buick Skyhawk |
2.0
The single overhead camshaft inline four-cylinder engines exhibit a square bore-to-stroke ratio, equipped with fuel injection, an aluminum crossflow cylinder head, and a belt-driven overhead camshaft. They incorporate electronic ignition, a six-bolt flywheel, and have a redline of 6,400 rpm. Developed by Opel, these powerplants have been utilized in Brazilian, Korean, and North American markets since 1981, with their introduction to European Opel/Vauxhall vehicles beginning in 1986. Notable early applications include the Omega A and the facelifted Ascona C3 from 1987.
In the North American market, these engines powered compact cars on the J-body from 1983 to 1994. A turbocharged variant also appeared briefly in the N-body Pontiac Grand Am. The SOHC configuration was fitted to the Daewoo-produced Pontiac LeMans, based on the Opel Kadett E. Production continues in Brazil under the FlexPower branding, with variations primarily aimed at meeting emissions requirements. The 20SEH represents a performance-oriented model used in sportier Opel vehicles such as the Ascona GT and Kadett GSi (marketed as Vauxhall Cavalier SRi 130 and Astra GTE), distinguished by a more aggressive cam profile and high-compression pistons.
The LT3 (RPO code) or C20GET is a turbocharged version manufactured in Brazil for the North American market. It features components coated in red powder and employs a water-cooled Garrett T-25 turbocharger without an intercooler, achieving peak boost at full throttle.
| Engine | Power | Torque | Compression Ratio | Fuel Delivery | Engine Management | Applications |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 20LE |
| |||||
| 20NE | 115 PS (85 kW) at 5200 rpm | 175 N⋅m (129 lb⋅ft) at 2600 rpm | 9.2:1 | Multipoint fuel injection | Motronic ML 4.1 |
|
| 20SE | 122 PS (90 kW) at 5400 rpm | 175 N⋅m (129 lb⋅ft) at 2600 rpm | 10.0:1 | Multipoint fuel injection | Motronic ML 4.1 | |
| 20SEH | 127–130 PS (93–96 kW) at 5600 rpm | 180 N⋅m (130 lb⋅ft) at 4600 rpm | 10.0:1 | Multipoint fuel injection |
|
|
| C20NE | 115 PS (85 kW) at 5200 rpm | 170 N⋅m (130 lb⋅ft) at 2600 rpm | 9.2:1 | Multipoint fuel injection |
|
|
| X20SE | 115 PS (85 kW) at 5200 rpm | 178 N⋅m (131 lb⋅ft) at 2800 rpm | 10.0:1 | Multipoint fuel injection | Motronic M1.5.4 | Opel Astra / Opel Omega |
| Engine | Power | Torque | Fuel Delivery | Applications |
|---|
|- ||LT2||||||Throttle body fuel injection|||| |- ||LE4|| at 5200 rpm || at 3600 rpm || Multi-Port Fuel Injection || 1992–1994 Pontiac Sunbird |- ||LT3 || at 5600 rpm || at 4000 rpm || Multi-Port Fuel Injection || |}
2.2
The 2.2 L (2198 cc) engine, identified by the codes C22NE and 22LE, is characterized by an 86mm bore coupled with a 94.6mm stroke. This variant was mainly utilized in the Brazilian automotive market, powering models such as the Opel Omega A (marketed as Chevrolet Omega in Brazil) with an output of 116 hp, and the Opel Vectra B (sold as Chevrolet Vectra in Brazil) delivering 123 hp. It succeeded the less powerful 2.0 8-valve C20NE engine (116 hp) in these Brazilian vehicles, whereas European versions of the Omega A continued to employ the older CIH engine.
Applications:
- Isuzu Faster
- FS Lublin, featuring a modified C22NED engine
2.4
This 2405 cc engine has a bore of 87.5 mm and a stroke length of 100 mm.
- C24SE – 2.4 L SOHC – used in the Isuzu Rodeo (manufactured by Holden)
- X24XF— 2.4 L MPFI SOHC 8-valve FlexPower version
DOHC
The initial naturally aspirated DOHC 16-valve 2.0 L (1998 cc) engine with a cast-iron block was introduced in 1988, evolving from the SOHC 2.0L (20SEH). It first appeared in the Opel Kadett E GSi/Vauxhall Astra Mk2 GTE and subsequently in the Opel Vectra A/Vauxhall Cavalier Mk3 GSi 2000, available in both non-catalyzed (20XE) and catalyzed (C20XE) variants. Known colloquially as the Red Top or "XE" due to its distinctive red spark plug cover, it gained recognition for its performance capabilities.
In 1994, the Ecotec family was launched, featuring a DOHC 16-valve cylinder head jointly developed with Lotus atop an updated Family II block. The 2.0 L X20XEV delivered 136 hp under the GM Ecotec badge, aimed at mainstream markets with enhanced emissions compliance compared to the earlier high-performance 20XE/C20XE units. The series culminated with the X20XER model in 1999.
It is important to note that these Family II Ecotec engines are not related to the later GM Ecotec engines introduced in 1999 for vehicles such as the Opel Vectra B, which represent an entirely separate engineering lineage.
Coscast
This group utilizes the SOHC engine block with specific bore and stroke dimensions, combined with a Cosworth-engineered timing belt-driven double overhead camshaft (DOHC) 16-valve cylinder head (Project KB). The cylinder heads were cast and assembled by Cosworth initially, and later by Kolbenschmidt as production demands increased. These heads typically exhibit superior flow characteristics compared to their Lotus-designed successors.
The 20XE, introduced in 1987 and developed by Cosworth UK mainly for motorsport purposes, represented a significant achievement in European racing engine design. It achieved a notably low specific fuel consumption of 232 g/kWh (equivalent to approximately 37% thermal efficiency), outperforming many contemporary diesel engines. With valves set at a 46° angle paired with shallow valve pocket pistons, it attained an optimal compression ratio without resorting to shorter connecting rods. Spark plugs were centrally located and extended deeply into the combustion chamber. Initial power output stood at 157 bhp. Subsequent C20XELN variants incorporated "Low Noise" modifications—including reduced cylinder head port sizes, cast pistons, and altered crankshaft bearing dimensions—to satisfy EU noise regulations.
In 1988, the C20XE model incorporated a catalytic converter along with an oxygen sensor to meet emerging emission requirements, enabling control via Bosch Motronic 2.5 engine management systems. Power output was adjusted accordingly. Although emissions standards took effect in 1991, Vauxhall implemented them earlier; thus, pre-1991 C20XE engines can have their catalytic converters removed without losing road legality.
The C20LET made its debut in 1992, powering vehicles such as the Opel/Vauxhall Vectra Turbo/Cavalier Turbo, Calibra Turbo, and South African Opel Astra 200t S models. Closely related to the C20XE architecture, it featured a KKK-16 turbocharger, forged Mahle pistons, Bosch Motronic M2.7 ECU management, and a distinctive black plastic intake plenum emblazoned with "turbo" branding. This unit produced DIN-rated power output of , delivering continuous boost at , with overboost capability up to .
Certain versions were equipped with switchable Traction Control, particularly early Astra GSi models; this system employed a secondary throttle valve governed by the traction control ECU to modulate wheel slip effectively. Additionally, these engines incorporated upgraded six-pin throttle position sensors alongside black coolant temperature sensors.
In early 1990s iterations, cast metal spark plug covers were replaced by less durable plastic components; cambelts transitioned from round-tooth profiles to square-tooth designs with plastic pre-tensioners over time. Variations also existed in crankshaft configurations and SFi airbox designs.
Prior to production cessation, the C20XE was upgraded to Bosch Motronic 2.8 featuring distributorless ignition systems. The final C20LN (Low Noise) version included a strengthened engine block for improved longevity.
Porosity Concerns
In 1991, the original Coscast cylinder head was succeeded by the GM cylinder head, produced by Kolben-Schmidt. The primary benefit of the Coscast head lay in its exceptionally low porosity, achieved by injecting molten metal into the mold rather than traditional pouring methods, which minimized air entrapment typical in conventional casting. Identification of this head includes a Coscast emblem located beneath the third exhaust port and a distinctive ridge underneath the distributor.
The subsequent GM head employed poured casting techniques and featured an altered oil and water gallery layout, necessitating Welch plugs at both ends. These plugs serve as a key indicator to differentiate between GM and Coscast heads within complete C20XE engine assemblies. A later iteration of the GM head incorporated reinforcement and had reduced inlet and exhaust port sizes.
Heads with higher porosity are prone to allowing oil to leak into coolant passages due to elevated oil pressure, resulting in a mayonnaise-like deposit within the cooling system, often observed on the coolant reservoir cap. The extent of this contamination ranges from light curry-colored residue to dense brown sludge, which can rapidly deteriorate coolant hoses. This issue emerged during a period when GM was facing bankruptcy, and no recalls were issued by dealers for affected vehicles. Given the engine’s widespread use, specialist firms now offer repairs for porous GM C20XE/LET heads by either sleeving galleries or applying polymer-based sealants. Only a limited number of GM C20XE heads exhibited pronounced porosity-related problems.
Motorsport
The C20XE engine has seen extensive application in motorsport disciplines such as hillclimbing and single-seater racing. Despite its age, it continues to enjoy popularity among Formula 3 competitors, particularly within the Australian F3 circuit where Tim Macrow secured the 2007 championship driving a car powered by an Opel-Spiess engine. When tuned by Spiess, an F3-specification naturally aspirated C20XE can deliver approximately . This engine also powered Chevrolet and Lada teams in the WTCC and was utilized in Westfield kit cars. Its sturdy construction makes it a preferred choice for enthusiasts of both naturally aspirated and turbocharged setups.
| Engine | Power | Torque | Compression Ratio | Fuel Delivery | Engine Management | Applications |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 20XE | 115 kW (156 PS) | 203 N⋅m (150 lb⋅ft) | 10.5:1 | Sequential multi-port fuel injection | Bosch Motronic 2.5 (no catalytic converter) | Opel Kadett Opel Vectra |
| C20XE | 110 kW (150 PS) at 6000 rpm | 196 N⋅m (145 lb⋅ft) at 4600 rpm | 10.5:1 | Sequential multi-port fuel injection |
|
|
| C20LET | 150 kW (204 PS) at 5600 rpm | 280 N⋅m (207 lb⋅ft) at 2400 rpm | 9.0:1 | Sequential multi-port fuel injection | Bosch Motronic 2.7 |
|
1.8
The X18XE, marketed under the Ecotec name, is characterized by its specific bore and stroke dimensions.
2.0
The X20XEV represents the initial Family II engine to carry the Ecotec badge, incorporating a cylinder head designed by Lotus with a reduced valve angle to enhance torque at lower engine speeds. This naturally aspirated 16-valve DOHC powerplant features a cast-iron block paired with an aluminum cylinder head and has defined bore and stroke measurements. It includes EGR and AIR emission control systems, delivering an output of .
The more powerful X20XER variant generates at 6500 rpm and at 4300 rpm.
Opel Astra G's turbocharged Z20LET model offers an 8.8:1 compression ratio, produces , and delivers of torque. Starting in 2005, this engine evolved into the Z20LEL, Z20LER, and Z20LEH versions for the Astra H and Zafira B, with respective power ratings of , , and . The Astra VXR's Z20LEH includes features such as under-piston oil cooling, an upgraded turbocharger, removal of contra-rotating balancer shafts to minimize frictional losses, and high-grade forged Mahle pistons.
The X20SED is a 16-valve DOHC MPFi engine manufactured by Holden and utilized in the Daewoo Nubira.
Known as the L34 or U20SED, this 2.0 L () engine was produced by Holden in Australia until 2009. Marketed under the D-TEC or E-TEC II names by Chevrolet (GM), it has bore and stroke specifications with power outputs ranging from (Europe/South America) up to (USA). This engine powered vehicles such as the Daewoo Lacetti along with badge-engineered variants including the Chevrolet Optra and Suzuki Reno/Forenza.
Production ceased in 2010, succeeded by a new generation of open-deck engines beginning with the prefix A (e.g., A20NHT).
| Engine | Power | Torque | Compression Ratio | Fuel Delivery | Engine Management | Applications |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| X20XEV | [convert: invalid number] | 185 Nm at 4000 rpm | 10.8:1 | Siemens Simtec 56.1/56.5/70 |
| |
| X20XER | Template:Cvt 160 PS | Template:Cvt 188 Nm at 4300 rpm | 10.8:1 | Siemens Simtec 70 | 1999–2001 Opel Astra OPC |
2.2
Originating from the GM Family II series and manufactured by Holden in Australia since 1995, the 2.2 L engine was utilized in Isuzu-based trucks and SUVs across Australia and Europe. This powerplant later found its way into models such as the Isuzu Rodeo and Daewoo Leganza. The X22XE version was also installed in the Opel/Vauxhall Sintra between 1996 and 1999. Important technical details include:
- Cylinder bore: 86.0 mm
- Piston stroke: 94.6 mm
- Displacement: 2198 cc
X22XE
- Output: at 5,200 rpm, at 5,400 rpm (Sintra)
- Torque: at 2,600 rpm
- Compression ratio: 10.5:1
- Engine control system: Bosch Motronic M 1.5.4
- Fuel requirement: 91/95/98 octane with knock sensor
- Timing mechanism: timing belt
- Emissions: AGR system with regulated catalytic converter
- Additional features: balance shafts
Y22XE (fitted on Omega, 1999–2003)
- Power: at 5,400 rpm
- Torque: at 4,000 rpm
- Compression ratio: 10.5:1
- Engine management: Siemens Simtec 71
- Fuel specification: 91/95/98 octane with knock sensor
- Timing system: timing belt
- Emission controls: AGR and regulated catalytic converter
- Enhancements: balance shafts, electronic throttle control, cruise control
Z22XE (applied on Omega, 1999–2003)
- Identical specifications to Y22XE but engineered to meet Euro IV emission standards.
Other vehicles employing this engine series include:
- Isuzu Faster
- Isuzu MU/Isuzu Amigo (1995–2004)
- Opel/Vauxhall Frontera (1998–2004)
- Honda Passport (1998–2002)
- Opel Omega
- Opel Blazer (marketed in Indonesia)
2.4
- X24SFD—A 2.4 L (2405 cc) SFI DOHC 16-valve engine powering vehicles such as the Chevrolet Astra and Chevrolet Vectra:
- Maximum power output of 150 hp at 5200 rpm
- Peak torque of 228 Nm at 4000 rpm
- Z24XE—A 2.4 L (2405 cc) DOHC unit featured in the Chevrolet Captiva and Opel Antara from 2006 to 2010, produced by Holden until 2009. The Chevrolet Vectra of 2006 also included a 2.4 L 16-valve FlexPower edition.
- Power rating of at 5200 rpm
- Torque of at 2200 rpm