The 1.8-liter Rover 18K4K or 1.8 VVC engine was produced by the company from 1995 to 2005 and was installed on the 200 and 25 series models, including the Coupe based on them, as well as the MG F, TF or ZR. On cars of the Lotus and Caterham brands, up to 192 hp were removed from such a power unit.
K-series family: 11K4F, 14K2F, 14K4F, 16K4F, 18K4F, 18K4K, 18K4G.
Specifications
| Production years | 1995-2005 |
| Displacement, cc | 1796 |
| Fuel system | distributed injection |
| Power output, hp | 145 – 158 |
| Torque output, Nm | 174 |
| Cylinder block | aluminum R4 |
| Block head | aluminum 16v |
| Cylinder bore, mm | 80 |
| Piston stroke, mm | 89.3 |
| Compression ratio | 10.5 |
| Features | DOHC |
| Hydraulic lifters | yes |
| Timing drive | belt |
| Phase regulator | VVC |
| Turbocharging | no |
| Recommended engine oil | 5W-30 |
| Engine oil capacity, liter | 4.5 |
| Fuel type | petrol |
| Euro standards | EURO 3 |
| Fuel consumption, L/100 km (for Rover Coupe 1998) — city — highway — combined |
9.1 5.4 7.2 |
| Engine lifespan, km | ~270 000 |
| Weight, kg | 110 |
The engine was installed on:
- Rover 200 III (RF) in 1997 – 1999;
- Rover 200 II Coupe (XW) in 1996 – 1998;
- Rover 25 I (RF) in 1999 – 2002;
- MG F in 1995 – 2002;
- MG ZR in 2001 – 2005, TF in 2002 – 2005.
Disadvantages of the Rover 18K4K engine
- The main problem with this engine is that it is very afraid of overheating;
- Therefore, here it not only often breaks through the cylinder head gasket, but also simply leads the head;
- And don’t forget to change the long and expensive head bolts every time you remove it;
- The timing belt is designed for 100,000 km of run, and when it breaks, the valves always bend;
- The weaknesses of the motor also include short-lived supports and ignition coils.
Frequently asked questions about the Rover 18K4K
How much power does the Rover 18K4K make?
The Rover 18K4K develops 145 - 158 hp and 174 Nm of torque.
How much oil does the Rover 18K4K take and which one?
Engine oil capacity: 4.5 liters. Recommended oil: 5W-30.
Does the Rover 18K4K have a timing belt or chain?
The Rover 18K4K uses a timing belt.
Is the Rover 18K4K turbocharged?
No, the Rover 18K4K is naturally aspirated.
Does the Rover 18K4K need valve clearance adjustment?
No, the Rover 18K4K has hydraulic lifters, so the valve clearances do not need to be adjusted.
How long does the Rover 18K4K last?
The typical lifespan of the Rover 18K4K is ~270 000 km with proper maintenance.
What is the fuel consumption of the Rover 18K4K?
Rover Coupe 1998: city 9.1, highway 5.4, combined 7.2 L/100 km.
What cars was the Rover 18K4K installed on?
Rover 200 III (RF) in 1997 - 1999; Rover 200 II Coupe (XW) in 1996 - 1998; Rover 25 I (RF) in 1999 - 2002; MG F in 1995 - 2002; MG ZR in 2001 - 2005, TF in 2002 - 2005.
What are the common problems of the Rover 18K4K?
The main problem with this engine is that it is very afraid of overheating. Therefore, here it not only often breaks through the cylinder head gasket, but also simply leads the head. All known problems.




