What are the differences between EA113 and EA888?
4 Answers
Differences between EA113 and EA888 are as follows: Different launch times: The EA113 engine actually first appeared in 1993, while EA888, as a newer engine series from the Volkswagen Group, appeared in March 2008. Different configurations and performance: The EA888 2.0TFSI engine replaces the traditional timing belt with a timing chain, which is also the first time the Volkswagen Group has used a timing chain on a four-cylinder engine. This design basically means no specialized maintenance is required throughout its lifespan, with lower noise and no slack, eliminating the hassle of replacing the timing chain after 60,000 to 100,000 kilometers of use with the older EA113. Additionally, the EA888 engine uses camshaft phase adjustment technology, with VANE-TYPE as the control device, resulting in higher accuracy of variable timing. Different size and weight: The crankshaft case of the EA888 2.0TFSI engine is more than 25% lighter and smaller than the older EA113, and the position of the dual balance shafts is arranged in a more reasonable location. Moreover, it can be directly driven by the crankshaft through a gear set, reducing engine components while slightly improving overall smoothness and stability.
From a technical perspective, there is indeed a generational gap between the EA113 and EA888 engines. The EA113 is an older-generation cast iron block engine, which is heavy but exceptionally durable, making it less prone to cylinder failure when modified for forced induction. The EA888 uses an all-aluminum construction, shedding nearly 30 kilograms in weight while being more fuel-efficient, though it comes with higher maintenance costs. The turbo configurations also differ significantly: the EA113 is equipped with a small-inertia turbocharger, offering quick acceleration but lacking sustained power at higher speeds, whereas the EA888 features variable-geometry turbocharger blades, delivering noticeably stronger thrust above 2000 RPM. The fuel system upgrade is even more critical, as the EA888 incorporates dual injection technology—combining direct injection with port injection—greatly reducing carbon buildup issues compared to its predecessor. These two engines are most commonly found in the Audi A4 and Volkswagen Magotan, offering completely different driving experiences.
You'll know the difference once you've driven cars with these two engines. The EA113 is like a bodybuilder - strong low-end torque but sounds strained at high RPMs, with fuel consumption reaching 11L/100km in traffic. The EA888 is more like a marathon runner, working seamlessly with dual-clutch transmissions, easily achieving 6L/100km on highway cruising. Maintenance-wise, the EA113 is straightforward - a timing belt replacement costs just a few hundred yuan. The EA888's timing chain design has issues, potentially causing skipped teeth and valve damage at 100,000km, requiring engine disassembly for repairs. Resale value differs too - in the used car market, models with third-gen EA888 typically command 20,000-30,000 yuan more than older EA113 versions. Choose the 888 for comfort and reliability, or go with the 113 if you prefer mechanical feel.
Auto mechanics know these two engines' issues best. Common problems with the EA113 include valve cover gasket oil leaks and ignition coil failures, which can be fixed by replacing a gasket for just a few dozen yuan. The EA888 is notorious for oil consumption, especially the second-generation models that can burn up to one liter per thousand kilometers, with the third generation improving piston rings to mitigate this. The biggest design difference lies in the cylinder block: the EA113 has an open-deck cooling system with poor heat dissipation but high pressure resistance, while the EA888 uses a closed-deck system prone to overheating and boiling. Parts costs differ by a factor of two, with a single EA888 fuel injector costing over 2,000 yuan. For older cars, using 5W40 oil can help reduce oil consumption, while 0W20 is recommended for newer cars for better fuel efficiency.
