The 1.5-liter Mazda ZL-VE gasoline engine was produced in Japan from 1998 to 2003 and was installed only on the local modification of the 323 models, better known as the Familia. This motor differed from the similar ZL-DE by the presence of an S-VT phase regulator on the intake shaft.
Z-engine family:
1.3 L – ZJ-VE;
1.5 L – Z5-DE, ZL-DE, ZL-VE, ZY-VE;
1.6 L – Z6, ZM-DE.
Specifications
| Production years | 1998-2003 |
| Displacement, cc | 1489 |
| Fuel system | distributed injection |
| Power output, hp | 130 |
| Torque output, Nm | 141 |
| Cylinder block | cast iron R4 |
| Block head | aluminum 16v |
| Cylinder bore, mm | 78 |
| Piston stroke, mm | 78.4 |
| Compression ratio | 9.4 |
| Features | DOHC |
| Hydraulic lifters | no |
| Timing drive | belt |
| Phase regulator | S-VT, intake |
| Turbocharging | no |
| Recommended engine oil | 5W-30 |
| Engine oil capacity, liter | 3.3 |
| Fuel type | petrol |
| Euro standards | EURO 3 |
| Fuel consumption, L/100 km (for Mazda Familia 2001) — city — highway — combined |
8.3 5.5 6.7 |
| Engine lifespan, km | ~290 000 |
| Weight, kg | 129.7 |
The engine was installed on:
- Mazda Familia BJ in 1998 – 2003.
Disadvantages of the Mazda ZL-VE engine
- This simple and reliable engine is only afraid of untimely maintenance;
- If you delay the replacement of candles for a long time, you will also have to spend money on ignition coils;
- According to the regulations, the timing belt is changed every 60,000 km, but when it breaks, the valve does not bend;
- There are no hydraulic lifters here and valve adjustment is required every 100,000 km;
- At high mileage, an oil burner occurs due to wear on the valve stem seals.
Frequently asked questions about the Mazda ZL-VE
How much power does the Mazda ZL-VE make?
The Mazda ZL-VE develops 130 hp and 141 Nm of torque.
How much oil does the Mazda ZL-VE take and which one?
Engine oil capacity: 3.3 liters. Recommended oil: 5W-30.
Does the Mazda ZL-VE have a timing belt or chain?
The Mazda ZL-VE uses a timing belt.
Is the Mazda ZL-VE turbocharged?
No, the Mazda ZL-VE is naturally aspirated.
Does the Mazda ZL-VE need valve clearance adjustment?
Yes, there are no hydraulic lifters, so the valve clearances have to be checked and adjusted periodically.
How long does the Mazda ZL-VE last?
The typical lifespan of the Mazda ZL-VE is ~290 000 km with proper maintenance.
What is the fuel consumption of the Mazda ZL-VE?
Mazda Familia 2001: city 8.3, highway 5.5, combined 6.7 L/100 km.
What cars was the Mazda ZL-VE installed on?
Mazda Familia BJ in 1998 - 2003.
What are the common problems of the Mazda ZL-VE?
This simple and reliable engine is only afraid of untimely maintenance. If you delay the replacement of candles for a long time, you will also have to spend money on ignition coils. All known problems.
