The Mazda K8-DE 1.8-liter V6 gasoline engine was assembled by the company from 1991 to 1998 and was installed only on the European and American modifications of the popular MX-3 model. A version of this engine with the K8-ZE index with 145 hp was installed on cars for the Japanese market.
K-engine family: K8-DE, K8-ZE, KF-DE, KF-ZE, KJ-ZEM, KL-DE, KL-G4, KL-ZE.
Specifications
| Production years | 1991-1998 |
| Displacement, cc | 1845 |
| Fuel system | distributed injection |
| Power output, hp | 130 – 135 |
| Torque output, Nm | 155 – 160 |
| Cylinder block | aluminum V6 |
| Block head | aluminum 24v |
| Cylinder bore, mm | 75 |
| Piston stroke, mm | 69.6 |
| Compression ratio | 9.2 |
| 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 MX-3 1995) — city — highway — combined |
9.9 6.7 8.4 |
| Engine lifespan, km | ~290 000 |
| Weight, kg | 165 (with attachments) |
The engine was installed on:
- Mazda MX-3 EC in 1991 – 1998.
Disadvantages of the Mazda K8-DE engine
- All-aluminum motor is afraid of overheating, keep an eye on the cooling system;
- Closer to 150,000 km, oil consumption may already appear, up to a liter per 1000 km;
- Also, at high mileage, grease leaks from under the valve covers are often found;
- The timing belt resource is about 100 thousand km, but when it breaks, the valves almost never bend;
- Due to low-quality oil, hydraulic lifters can knock even up to 50,000 km.
Frequently asked questions about the Mazda K8-DE
How much power does the Mazda K8-DE make?
The Mazda K8-DE develops 130 - 135 hp and 155 - 160 Nm of torque.
How much oil does the Mazda K8-DE take and which one?
Engine oil capacity: 4.0 liters. Recommended oil: 5W-30.
Does the Mazda K8-DE have a timing belt or chain?
The Mazda K8-DE uses a timing belt.
Is the Mazda K8-DE turbocharged?
No, the Mazda K8-DE is naturally aspirated.
Does the Mazda K8-DE need valve clearance adjustment?
No, the Mazda K8-DE has hydraulic lifters, so the valve clearances do not need to be adjusted.
How long does the Mazda K8-DE last?
The typical lifespan of the Mazda K8-DE is ~290 000 km with proper maintenance.
What is the fuel consumption of the Mazda K8-DE?
Mazda MX-3 1995: city 9.9, highway 6.7, combined 8.4 L/100 km.
What cars was the Mazda K8-DE installed on?
Mazda MX-3 EC in 1991 - 1998.
What are the common problems of the Mazda K8-DE?
All-aluminum motor is afraid of overheating, keep an eye on the cooling system. Closer to 150,000 km, oil consumption may already appear, up to a liter per 1000 km. All known problems.
