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In the late 1980’s double overhead camshaft multi-valve engines were de-rigueur for any performance model with prime examples being the cosworth designed GM C20let engine fitted to the Vauxhall Astra / Opel Kadet, and the VAG 16 valve & 20 valve motors found across the Audi & Volkswagen range toppers. However Rovers installation of its new K-series engine in 1989’s 200 & 400 models raised the bar for humdrum “ordinary” cars. Of course the strive for economy had led this change, as fuel economy and emissions were now governmental requirements not just marketing aids. Though a new design the Zeta engine (nee’ Zetec due to trademark wrangling) had its roots in the CVH engine from the 1980 Escort (which itself had been In the late 1980’s double overhead camshaft multi-valve engines were de-rigueur for any performance model with prime examples being the cosworth designed GM C20let engine fitted to the Vauxhall Astra / Opel Kadet, and the VAG 16 valve & 20 valve motors found across the Audi & Volkswagen range toppers. However Rovers installation of its new K-series engine in 1989’s 200 & 400 models raised the bar for humdrum “ordinary” cars. Of course the strive for economy had led this change, as fuel economy and emissions were now governmental requirements not just marketing aids. Though a new design the Zeta engine (nee’ Zetec due to trademark wrangling) had its roots in the CVH engine from the 1980 Escort (which itself had been subject to a 16 valve head courtesy of Schrick in 1985). This was mainly so the existing manufacturing facilities could be used – indeed both engines shared the same 91.8 bore spacing, leading to the creation of ZVH engines by independent Ford tuners. Manufactured in three capacities ( 1.6, 1.8, 2.0 all with 88.0mm stroke), and sand cast in grey Iron, the weight advantage of Aluminium was swapped for Irons’ sound absorption properties, and featuring a cast aluminium rocker cover and ribbed sump pan. Forged connecting rods and high silicon alloy pistons were an unusually specified touch (Indeed this “factory” bottom end was found by tuners to be capable of 200 bhp with only uprated rod bolts, quite an impressive feat.) A point worthy of note for rocker cover spotters, is the raised fillet where the “Zeta” insignia was machined from the moulds when the engine became the “Zetec”!
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