The Mazda K8-ZE 1.8-liter V6 engine was produced in Japan from 1991 to 1998 and was installed in local versions of such popular models as Eunos, Efini MS-6 and Cronos. A deforced version with the K8-DE index was installed on the European and American markets.
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 | 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) |
The engine was installed 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.
Disadvantages of the Mazda K8-ZE engine
- The cylinder block and cylinder head are cast from aluminum and are very afraid of overheating;
- Also, power units of this series often consume oil after 150 thousand km;
- On the same run, there are often leaks of lubricant from under the valve covers;
- The timing belt changes every 100,000 km, however, when it breaks, the valves usually do not bend;
- Hydraulic lifters do not tolerate cheap oil and can knock even up to 50,000 km.
Frequently asked questions about the Mazda K8-ZE
How much power does the Mazda K8-ZE make?
The Mazda K8-ZE develops 140 - 145 hp and 155 - 160 Nm of torque.
How much oil does the Mazda K8-ZE take and which one?
Engine oil capacity: 4.0 liters. Recommended oil: 5W-30.
Does the Mazda K8-ZE have a timing belt or chain?
The Mazda K8-ZE uses a timing belt.
Is the Mazda K8-ZE turbocharged?
No, the Mazda K8-ZE is naturally aspirated.
Does the Mazda K8-ZE need valve clearance adjustment?
No, the Mazda K8-ZE has hydraulic lifters, so the valve clearances do not need to be adjusted.
How long does the Mazda K8-ZE last?
The typical lifespan of the Mazda K8-ZE is ~275 000 km with proper maintenance.
What is the fuel consumption of the Mazda K8-ZE?
Mazda Eunos 500 1993: city 10.3, highway 7.0, combined 8.7 L/100 km.
What cars was the Mazda K8-ZE installed 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.
What are the common problems of the Mazda K8-ZE?
The cylinder block and cylinder head are cast from aluminum and are very afraid of overheating. Also, power units of this series often consume oil after 150 thousand km. All known problems.






Thanks for the info I have a mazda coronos V6engine with fault automatic gearbox, and i find the clutching here in Zambia.