The 2.9-liter Volkswagen ABV 2.9 VR6 gasoline engine was produced from 1991 to 1997 and was installed on powerful modifications of the third generation Golf, Corrado and Passat station wagon. This power unit was essentially a bored version of the well-known motor with the AAA index.
EA360 family: AAA, AQP, ABV, BUB.
Specifications
| Production years | 1991-1997 |
| Displacement, cc | 2861 |
| Fuel system | Motronic M3.8.1 |
| Power output, hp | 184 – 190 |
| Torque output, Nm | 245 |
| Cylinder block | cast iron VR6 |
| Block head | aluminum 12v |
| Cylinder bore, mm | 82 |
| Piston stroke, mm | 90.3 |
| Compression ratio | 10.0 |
| Features | VSR (option) |
| Hydraulic lifters | yes |
| Timing drive | 2 chains |
| Phase regulator | no |
| Turbocharging | no |
| Recommended engine oil | 5W-30 |
| Engine oil capacity, liter | 5.5 |
| Fuel type | petrol |
| Euro standards | EURO 2 |
| Fuel consumption, L/100 km (for VW Golf 1995) — city — highway — combined |
15.9 8.7 11.1 |
| Engine lifespan, km | ~290 000 |
| Weight, kg | 170 |
The engine was installed on:
- Volkswagen Corrado 1 (509) in 1991 – 1995;
- Volkswagen Golf 3 (1H) in 1994 – 1997;
- Volkswagen Passat B4 (3A) in 1993 – 1997.
Disadvantages of the VW ABV engine
- Most of all, on specialized forums, they complain about impressive fuel consumption;
- At a certain mileage, a progressive oil burner is added to this;
- The timing chain lasts about 150,000 km, and then an expensive replacement awaits you;
- Also, the motor often worries about trifles: sensor failures and the ignition system;
- Often there are oil and antifreeze leaks that are not so easy to fix.
Frequently asked questions about the Volkswagen ABV
How much power does the Volkswagen ABV make?
The Volkswagen ABV develops 184 - 190 hp and 245 Nm of torque.
How much oil does the Volkswagen ABV take and which one?
Engine oil capacity: 5.5 liters. Recommended oil: 5W-30.
Does the Volkswagen ABV have a timing belt or chain?
Timing drive of the Volkswagen ABV: 2 chains.
Is the Volkswagen ABV turbocharged?
No, the Volkswagen ABV is naturally aspirated.
Does the Volkswagen ABV need valve clearance adjustment?
No, the Volkswagen ABV has hydraulic lifters, so the valve clearances do not need to be adjusted.
How long does the Volkswagen ABV last?
The typical lifespan of the Volkswagen ABV is ~290 000 km with proper maintenance.
What is the fuel consumption of the Volkswagen ABV?
VW Golf 1995: city 15.9, highway 8.7, combined 11.1 L/100 km.
What cars was the Volkswagen ABV installed on?
Volkswagen Corrado 1 (509) in 1991 - 1995; Volkswagen Golf 3 (1H) in 1994 - 1997; Volkswagen Passat B4 (3A) in 1993 - 1997.
What are the common problems of the Volkswagen ABV?
Most of all, on specialized forums, they complain about impressive fuel consumption. At a certain mileage, a progressive oil burner is added to this. All known problems.
