The Ford Cologne Engine: A Performance Overview

The Ford Cologne V6 is a series of cast iron block V6 engines produced by the Ford Motor Company from 1962 to 2011. The Cologne V6 was originally installed in vehicles intended for Germany and continental Europe, while the British Essex V6 was used in cars for the British market. The Cologne V6 was designed to be compatible with the Ford Taunus V4 engine, sharing the same transmission bolt pattern and engine mounts. The engine was available in both carbureted and fuel-injected forms and was produced in displacements ranging from 1.8 L to 4.0 L.

History of the Ford Cologne V6 engine

The Ford Cologne V6 is a series of 60-degree cast-iron block V6 engines produced by the Ford Motor Company from 1962 to 2011. The Cologne V6 was initially installed in vehicles intended for Germany and Continental Europe, while the British Essex V6 was used in cars for the British market. However, the Cologne V6 eventually replaced the Essex V6 for British-market vehicles. The engine was also used in the United States, particularly in compact trucks.

During its production run, the Cologne V6 was offered in displacements of 1.8, 2.0, 2.3, 2.4, 2.6, 2.8, 2.9, and 4.0 litres. The engines were available in both carbureted and fuel-injected forms. The smallest version of the V6, with a displacement of 1.8 litres, was used in the Ford 17M P7 from 1968 to 1971. The original displacement of the V6 was 2.0 litres, and it was first used in the 1964 Ford Taunus 20M (P5).

The first enlargement of the V6 appeared in 1967, with a displacement of 2.3 litres. This was followed by the introduction of the 2.6 L engine in 1969, which was the largest first-generation V6. The second-generation Cologne V6 was introduced in 1974, with a displacement of 2.8 litres. This was followed by the 2.9 L engine, which shared the same basic design as the 2.8 L model with some subtle differences.

A special twin DOHC (QUAD CAM) version of the 2.9 L engine was created by Cosworth Engineering in 1991. This engine was used in the Ford Scorpio Cosworth 24V and offered a substantial increase in power delivery above 4000 rpm. An improved version of this engine was available in the 1995 Ford Scorpio, with increased power output.

The pushrod 4.0 L engine, produced in Cologne, Germany, was only fitted to American vehicles such as the Ford Explorer, Ford Aerostar, Mazda B4000, and Ford Ranger. The SOHC version of this engine was introduced in 1997 in the Ford Explorer, alongside the original pushrod version. The SOHC engine was phased out in favour of the more powerful and efficient Duratec 37.

Vehicles that use the Ford Cologne V6 engine

The Ford Cologne V6 is a series of 60-degree cast-iron block V6 engines produced by the Ford Motor Company from 1962 to 2011. The Cologne V6 was initially designed for installation in vehicles intended for the German and European markets, while the British Essex V6 was used in cars for the British market. However, the Cologne V6 eventually replaced the Essex V6 in British-market vehicles. The Cologne V6 was also used in the United States, particularly in compact trucks.

First-generation Ford Cologne V6 (1964-1974)

• Ford Taunus 20M (1964-1968): The first Ford vehicle to be equipped with the Cologne V6 engine. It was offered in two power output variants: 85 PS and 90 PS.
• OSI 20M TS (1967): A pretty Italian-built coupé sold through Ford's dealer network. It was offered with 2.0- and 2.3-litre versions of the Cologne V6.
• Ford Capri I (1969-1974): The Capri I was a sporty coupé offered in various trims, including the GT, E, and GXL. It was initially powered by the Essex V6 engine but switched to the Cologne 2.8 V6 in later models.
• Ford Granada I (1975-1977): The Granada I was a luxurious offering from Ford, powered by the 2.8-litre Cologne V6 engine.
• Ford Cortina Mk4 2.3 Ghia (1977): This was the first British Ford to use the Cologne V6 engine. It was a range-topping model that offered more power than the 2.0-litre Pinto engine found in the standard Cortina.
• Ford Granada II (1977-1985): The Granada II switched to the Cologne V6 engine, offering 2.3- and 2.8-litre variants.
• Ford Sierra I (1982): The Sierra I was powered by the 2.3-litre Cologne V6 engine, producing 115 bhp.

Second-generation Ford Cologne V6 (1974 onwards)

• Ford Capri II (1974-1978): The Capri II continued the Capri lineage and was offered with the Cologne V6 engine.
• Ford Capri III (1978-1985): The Capri III was the final iteration of the Capri, and some models were equipped with the 2.8-litre Cologne V6 engine.
• Ford Sierra XR4x4 and XR4i (from1982): The XR4x4 and XR4i were performance-oriented versions of the Sierra, featuring four-wheel drive and the 2.8-litre Cologne V6 engine.
• Ford Scorpio/Granada III (from1982): The Scorpio/Granada III was a large saloon car that utilised the 2.9-litre Cologne V6 engine with Cosworth-designed cylinder heads, offering increased power and smoother revving.
• Ford Ranger (from1986): The Ford Ranger is a compact truck that utilised the 4.0-litre variant of the Cologne V6 engine.
• Ford Explorer (from1990): The Ford Explorer SUV was powered by the 4.0-litre Cologne V6 engine, offering increased power to handle its weight.
• Ford Mustang (from1973): The Mustang, offered in Europe, was equipped with the 2.8-litre Cologne V6 engine, producing 105 bhp.
• Reliant Scimitar (from1979): The Reliant Scimitar is a sporting estate that initially used the Essex V6 but switched to the 2.8-litre Cologne V6 in 1980.
• TVR Tasmin/280i (from1980): The TVR Tasmin is a bold, wedge-shaped sports car powered by the 2.8-litre Cologne V6 engine, producing up to 160 bhp with fuel injection.

Comparison with the Ford Essex V6 engine

The Ford Essex V6 engine is a 60-degree V6 engine that was built by the Ford Motor Company in the United Kingdom from 1966 to 1988, and in South Africa until 2000. The engine was produced in displacements of 2.5 L, 3.0 L, and 3.1 L, with the 3.0-litre version being the most common and widely used. The Essex V6 was designed to replace the outdated inline-four and six-cylinder Ford Zephyr engines. It was used in a wide range of vehicles, from Ford Transit vans to sedans, coupés, sports cars, and police and ambulance vehicles.

The Ford Cologne V6 engine, on the other hand, was produced from 1962 to 2011 in displacements between 1.8 L and 4.0 L. The Cologne V6 was originally installed in vehicles intended for Germany and Continental Europe, while the Essex V6 was used in cars for the British market. Later, the Cologne V6 largely replaced the Essex V6 for British-market vehicles due to emissions reasons.

One of the main differences between the two engines is their country of origin. The Cologne V6, as the name suggests, was produced in Germany, while the Essex V6 was produced in the United Kingdom. The Cologne V6 was designed to be compatible with the Ford Taunus V4 engine, sharing the same transmission bolt pattern and engine mounts. In contrast, the Essex V6 was designed so that the same block could be used in both diesel and petrol applications, although the diesel version never reached production.

In terms of performance, the Essex V6 was known for its sturdy design, with a heavy four-main bearing crankshaft and a heavy flywheel to smooth out power delivery. The Essex V6 is also referred to as an "Essex lump" due to its weight. On the other hand, the Cologne V6 was known for its smooth performance and revving capabilities, although it was easy to over-rev the engine.

Another difference between the two engines is the type of fuel system used. The Essex V6 initially used a Weber carburetor, which was later replaced by a more modern version to address issues with over-fuelling. The Cologne V6, on the other hand, was available in both carburetted and fuel-injected forms.

In terms of tuning, the 2.8 and 2.9 series of the Cologne V6 are significantly different, with the 2.9 featuring chain-driven cams and three-port heads, while the 2.8 has Siamese ported heads and a fibre-teeth cam gear. Converting between the two is very difficult due to differences in cam phasing and other parts. The Essex V6 has two major weak points: the hexagonal oil pump spindle/shaft, which can round off or break, and the nylon camshaft gear, which can strip its teeth due to overheating.

Overall, the Ford Cologne V6 and Essex V6 engines served similar purposes in different markets, with the Cologne V6 eventually replacing the Essex V6 in British-market vehicles due to its emissions advantages. The Cologne V6 offered a wider range of displacements and was produced for a longer period, while the Essex V6 was known for its sturdy and reliable performance.

Ford Taunus/Cologne V4/V6 tuning guide

The Ford Taunus, now more commonly known as the Cologne, is a V6 engine produced from 1962 to 2011. The Cologne V6 was offered in displacements of 1.8, 2.0, 2.3, 2.4, 2.6, 2.8, 2.9, and 4.0 litres. The two major forms of the Cologne V6 are the 2.8 and 2.9 series of engines, which have their roots in Germany. In Germany, a V4 of the same format was also produced in various displacements.

Tuning the Ford Taunus/Cologne V4/V6

The 2.3 and 2.8 are significantly different from the 2.9, as they feature Siamese ported heads, fibre-teeth cam gear, and shorter stroke. The 2.9's cam is chain-driven in the opposite direction and features 3-port heads. You cannot fit 2.9 heads on a 2.8 because the cam phasing is different, but you can fit the 2.9 crank in a 2.8 block.

The 2.8 engine can be found in MkII Granadas, Capri 2.8 Injections, and Sierra XR4i, while the 2.3 was fitted to MkII Granadas and MkIV/V Cortinas. In 1989, Ford switched to the 2.9 engine for the new Mk3 Granadas, while the 2.3 became the 2.4. These engines were controlled by twin plenum EFi with Ford EEC IV management.

The engines are very smooth and rev well, but it is easy to over-rev them. Therefore, most engines feature rev limiters. Since the con rods are the weak link, HD ARP con rod bolts are essential for over 6000 rpm. A con rod that has been stress relieved and shot peened can rev safely to 6500 rpm. An electronic rev limiter is a must-have for any engine not fitted with one to prevent the consequences of over-revving.

The 2.8 is better catered for in terms of cams and heads. Stage 1 heads with a Kent V6T1 cam will give power to around 165 bhp, while Stage 2, or better still Stage 3 with bigger valves, plus a V6T3 cam should see close to 200 bhp.

Capacity can be increased with a 1mm overbore, which is safe. Accralite 94mm Pinto pistons are popular for this application, although they do need machining to fit.

The injection can be tuned on the rolling road to cope, but many people switch to carbs, using the 2.3/2.8 carb inlet manifold.

Ford Cologne V6 engine dimensions

The Ford Cologne V6 is a series of 60-degree cast-iron block V6 engines produced by the Ford Motor Company from 1962 to 2011. The Cologne V6 was initially designed for vehicles intended for Germany and Continental Europe, but it eventually replaced the Essex V6 for British-market vehicles. The engine was also used in the United States, particularly in compact trucks.

The Ford Cologne V6 engine was offered in various displacements, ranging from 1.8 to 4.0 litres. The smallest version of the engine, the 1.8 L, had a bore and stroke of 80 mm x 60.14 mm (3.15 inches x 2.37 inches) and an output of 82 PS (60 kW; 81 hp) and 135 N⋅m (100 lb⋅ft). This engine was used in the Ford 17M P7 from 1968 to 1971.

The original displacement of the Cologne V6 was 2.0 L, with a bore and stroke of 84 mm x 60.14 mm (3.31 inches x 2.37 inches). The output of this engine varied between 85 PS (63 kW; 84 hp) and 151 N⋅m (111 lb⋅ft) or 90 PS (66 kW; 89 hp) and 158 N⋅m (117 lb⋅ft). This engine was used in various Ford models, including the Taunus, Capri, and Granada, from the 1960s to the 1980s.

The first enlargement of the Cologne V6 resulted in a 2.3 L engine with a bore and stroke of 90 mm x 60.14 mm (3.54 inches x 2.37 inches). The output of this engine was either 108/114 PS (79/84 kW; 107/112 hp) or 125 PS (92 kW; 123 hp), depending on the valve cover colour. This engine was used in Ford models such as the 20M, 17M RS, Capri, Taunus, Cortina, and Granada, from the late 1960s to the early 1980s.

The 2.4 L Cologne V6 engine was exclusive to Europe and featured a chain-driven camshaft, fuel injection system (EFI), and Ford's EEC-IV engine management. It had a bore and stroke of 84 mm x 72 mm (3.31 inches x 2.83 inches) and produced 125 PS (92 kW; 123 hp) at 5800 rpm and 184 N⋅m (136 lb⋅ft) of torque at 3500 rpm. This engine was used in the Ford Scorpio/Granada III.

The largest first-generation Cologne V6 was the 2.6 L, introduced in 1969, with a bore and stroke of 90 mm x 66.8 mm (3.54 inches x 2.63 inches). This engine produced 125 PS (92 kW; 123 hp) and 205 N⋅m (151 lb⋅ft). It was used in the Ford 20M RS, 26M, Capri, and Granada (not available on UK models).

The second-generation Cologne V6, introduced in 1974, had a displacement of 2.8 L and a bore and stroke of 93.03 mm x 68.5 mm (3.66 inches x 2.70 inches). This engine was used in the Ford Mustang (Gen 3 1979), Sierra XR4x4, and XR4i. The 2.9 L version of the second-generation Cologne V6 shared a similar design but featured a chain-driven camshaft and three-port exhaust manifold. This engine was used in the Ford Sierra XR 4X4, Ghia 4x4 Estate, and Scorpio.

The pushrod 4.0 L Cologne V6, produced in Cologne, Germany, was exclusively fitted to American vehicles such as the Ford Explorer, Aerostar, Mazda B4000, and Ford Ranger. This engine had a bore and stroke of 100 mm x 84 mm (3.94 inches x 3.31 inches) and produced 160 hp (119 kW; 162 PS) and 305 N⋅m (225 lb⋅ft).

The SOHC version of the 4.0 L engine was introduced in 1997 and featured a variable-length intake manifold, producing 210 hp (157 kW; 213 PS) and 254 lb⋅ft (344 N⋅m). This engine was used in the Ford Explorer alongside the pushrod version.

According to a user on Shoptalkforums.com, the approximate dimensions of the Ford Cologne V6 engine are as follows:

• Overall length from flywheel to front pulley face: 23.5 inches
• Overall height from stock oil pan to top of carb, excluding air filter: 26 inches
• Overall width of pulleys (A/C to alternator): 30 inches
• Overall block width from the outside edge of one valve cover to the other: 23 inches

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