🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Alfa Romeo

Model:

75

Year:

1988

Trim Level:

2C Milano

Chassis Code:

Type 161

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The Alfa Romeo 75 represented a significant evolution from its predecessors, aiming to blend sporty driving dynamics with Italian flair. The 2C Milano variant, particularly, was positioned as a desirable model within the sedan segment, emphasizing performance and style.

Competitive Analysis:

Competed against other compact executive sedans of the era, such as the BMW 3 Series (E30), Mercedes-Benz 190E, and various Italian and French offerings. Its rear-wheel-drive bias (though the 75 was FWD) and sophisticated chassis were key selling points, though build quality perceptions sometimes trailed German rivals.

Key Features:

Unique Alfa Romeo styling, spirited engine performance, driver-focused interior, advanced (for its time) suspension design, emphasis on driving pleasure. The workshop manual is essential for preserving these characteristics.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

Engine, Transmission, Drivetrain, Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Electrical System, HVAC, Bodywork, Interior, Specifications, Troubleshooting, Maintenance

Page Count:

Estimated 700+ pages (typical for comprehensive workshop manuals of this era, exact number not specified in product info)

Manual Type:

Workshop Repair Manual

Language:

English (Assumed, common for international workshop manuals)

Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine System Coverage:

Detailed diagnostics, disassembly, assembly, repair, and troubleshooting for all engine components including cylinder head, block, crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods, camshafts, valves, timing system, lubrication system, cooling system, fuel injection system (Bosch Motronic), ignition system, and emissions control systems.

Transmission System Coverage:

Covers the 5-speed manual transaxle (often the 'Zeta' or similar design). Includes removal, installation, disassembly, assembly, clutch system, gear shift mechanism, and lubrication.

Drivetrain System Coverage:

Front wheel drive (FWD) transaxle, drive shafts, constant velocity (CV) joints, differential unit.

Suspension System Coverage:

Front MacPherson struts, rear de Dion axle with Watt's linkage, trailing arms, shock absorbers, springs, anti-roll bars, wheel bearings, and alignment specifications.

Steering System Coverage:

Rack and pinion steering system, steering column, power steering pump, hoses, and tie rod ends.

Brake System Coverage:

Front and rear disc brakes, brake master cylinder, brake lines, calipers, pads, rotors, parking brake system, and hydraulic system troubleshooting.

Electrical System Coverage:

Comprehensive wiring diagrams for all systems, battery, alternator, starter motor, lighting (headlights, taillights, interior), ignition switch, fuses, relays, engine control unit (ECU) connectors and pinouts, dashboard instruments, power windows, central locking (if equipped), and audio system.

HVAC System Coverage:

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system components, blower motor, heater core, evaporator, refrigerant system, and control panel.

Bodywork Coverage:

Panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, hood and trunk latches, bumper systems, glass replacement, and rust prevention recommendations.

Preventative Maintenance Procedures:

Oil changes, filter replacements (oil, air, fuel), spark plug replacement, coolant flushes, brake fluid changes, tire rotation and balancing, belt inspections and replacement.

Diagnostic Procedures:

Step-by-step troubleshooting guides for common and uncommon faults, symptom-based diagnostics, electrical system testing using multimeters and oscilloscopes, engine performance analysis.

Repair Procedures:

Detailed instructions for engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, suspension component replacement, brake caliper rebuilds, electrical component repair, body panel repair.

Component Replacement Procedures:

Specific guides for replacing starter motor, alternator, fuel pump, radiator, water pump, clutch assembly, brake master cylinder, shock absorbers, steering rack.

Technical Specifications And Data:

Torque specifications for all fasteners, engine timing specifications, valve clearances, fluid capacities, electrical system resistance values, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) interpretation.

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance and routine servicing to advanced engine and transmission overhauls, electrical diagnostics, and body repairs. Suitable for both novice DIY enthusiasts and experienced mechanics.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Searchable:

Yes (Interactive with easy subject/link navigation system)

Printable:

Yes (Print only the pages you need)

Illustrations Quality:

High quality diagrams/illustrations

Binding Type:

Digital (N/A for PDF)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Inline-4, naturally aspirated

Engine Code:

Likely the AR062.20 or similar variant (details depend on exact 2C Milano spec, common engine for the 75 range)

Displacement:

1962 cc (2.0 Liters)

Bore X Stroke:

84.0 mm x 88.5 mm (typical for this engine family)

Compression Ratio:

9.3:1 to 9.8:1 (depending on specific variant)

Horsepower:

Approximately 130-135 PS (96-99 kW) at 5800-6000 rpm

Torque:

Approximately 170-180 Nm (125-133 lb-ft) at 4000-4500 rpm

Fuel Injection:

Bosch Motronic electronic fuel injection

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline (RON 95 or higher recommended)

Ignition Type:

Electronic ignition with distributor (or distributorless in later versions, but 1988 typically distributor)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

5-speed manual transaxle

Transmission Type:

3-speed automatic (less common on performance-oriented trims like Milano, but possible)

Transaxle Layout:

Front-mounted engine, transaxle located at the front, incorporating gearbox and differential. This transaxle layout is a key feature for weight distribution.

Gear Ratios:

Specific gear ratios would be detailed in the manual but typical for the era would provide a good balance of acceleration and cruising ability. (e.g., 1st: ~3.45, 2nd: ~2.06, 3rd: ~1.38, 4th: ~1.03, 5th: ~0.83, Final Drive: ~3.90)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 4360 mm (171.7 in)

Width:

Approx. 1680 mm (66.1 in)

Height:

Approx. 1370 mm (53.9 in)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 2510 mm (98.8 in)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1150-1200 kg (2535-2645 lbs)

🛡️ Safety Features

Safety Ratings:

No specific crash test ratings (e.g., NHTSA, Euro NCAP) readily available for this specific model year and region from that era. This manual would focus on the built-in safety features of the vehicle.

Active Safety Features:

Four-wheel disc brakes, responsive steering system.

Passive Safety Features:

Seat belts (likely three-point front, two-point rear), padded dashboard, impact-absorbing steering column, reinforced door beams, safety glass.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Basic AM/FM radio with cassette player. Speakers typically located in doors and rear parcel shelf. Manual will cover wiring and basic troubleshooting for the audio system.

Driver Assistance Features:

None typically found for this era and model, focus is on mechanical and chassis engineering.

🔧 Maintenance

Engine Oil And Filter Change:

Every 10,000 km (approx. 6,000 miles) or 12 months, whichever comes first. (Refer to manual for exact interval for severe conditions).

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 20,000 km (approx. 12,000 miles) or 24 months.

Fuel Filter Replacement:

Every 40,000 km (approx. 24,000 miles).

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 20,000 km (approx. 12,000 miles) for standard plugs, longer for platinum. (Manual will specify exact type and interval).

Coolant Flush And Replacement:

Every 2-3 years or 40,000-60,000 km (approx. 24,000-37,000 miles).

Engine Oil Grade:

API SG or higher, SAE 10W-40 or 15W-50 (check manual for climate-specific recommendations).

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 4.5 - 5.0 liters (4.7 - 5.3 US quarts) with filter change.

Coolant Type:

Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. (Manual will specify exact type).

Transmission Fluid Type:

GL-4 Gear Oil, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4.

Known Issues:

Rust on sills, floor pans, and wheel arches; electrical gremlins (especially wiring loom integrity); aging rubber bushings in suspension and engine mounts; potential carburetor or fuel injection system issues; wear on synchromesh in manual transmissions; aging clutch components.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Alfa Romeo has a long and storied history in motorsport and automotive engineering, known for producing charismatic and driver-engaging vehicles with distinctive Italian styling and often innovative engineering solutions.

Model Evolution:

The Alfa Romeo 75 (known as the Milano in North America) replaced the Giulietta and was produced from 1985 to 1992. It was the last rear-wheel-drive Alfa Romeo before the brand's acquisition by Fiat. The 75 featured a transaxle layout for better weight distribution and a range of Alfa Romeo's renowned twin-cam engines. The 2C Milano represented a sporty variant within the lineup.

Production Period:

1985-1992

Manufacturing Locations:

Italy

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

While specific awards for the 1988 75 2C Milano are not widely publicized, Alfa Romeo models of this era were generally praised for their driving dynamics, engine character, and distinctive styling by automotive journalists. The manual helps owners maintain these praised attributes.