Segment:
Compact sport coupe
Design Philosophy:
Unique and striking Italian design, focused on performance and driver engagement
Key Competitors:
Peugeot 406 Coupé, Opel Calibra, Ford Probe, Toyota Celica, Nissan 200SX (S14)
Exterior Styling:
Distinctive 'sculpted' lines, aggressive stance, signature multi-lens headlights
Interior Design:
Driver-focused cockpit, quality materials (especially in higher trims), often featuring leather and sporty accents
Powertrain Options:
Range of efficient 4-cylinder and powerful 5-cylinder engines, including turbocharged variants
Regions Covered:
Global, with specific references to European market specifications
Trim Levels Covered:
All trim levels including base, Plus, Limited Edition, and performance variants (e.g., 20V Turbo)
Estimated Page Count:
800+
Type:
Factory Service and Repair Manual
Powertrain:
Engine mechanicals, fuel system, ignition system, lubrication, cooling, exhaust, engine management (ECU)
Transmission:
Manual transmission (5-speed, 6-speed) and Automatic transmission (4-speed) - overhaul, diagnostics, and fluid specifications
Chassis:
Suspension (front MacPherson struts, rear independent multi-link), steering (power assisted), brakes (front ventilated discs, rear solid discs, ABS)
Electrical:
Complete electrical diagrams, lighting systems, starter, charging system, instrument cluster, body control module, HVAC controls, power accessories
Body:
Body construction, exterior panels, interior trim, door mechanisms, glass, seals, crash structures
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance intervals, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-ups, spark plug replacement, belt inspection/replacement
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides for common symptoms, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and their meaning, electrical system troubleshooting, mechanical fault finding
Repair:
Detailed step-by-step repair procedures for all major components and systems, including engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, brake caliper replacement, suspension component replacement
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific repair procedures
Depth:
Comprehensive from basic fluid checks and component replacement to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed torque specifications and diagnostic flowcharts
Engine Code Common:
1.8L 16V (182 A4.000), 2.0L 16V (2.0 MPI, 2.0 16V Turbo), 2.0L 20V 5-cylinder (20V Turbo, 20V)
Engine Layout:
Inline-4 and Inline-5
Displacement 2.0L 16V:
1998 cc
Horsepower 2.0L 16V:
137-142 PS (135-139 hp)
Torque 2.0L 16V:
180 Nm (133 lb-ft)
Displacement 2.0L 20V Turbo:
1998 cc
Horsepower 2.0L 20V Turbo:
220 PS (217 hp)
Torque 2.0L 20V Turbo:
310 Nm (229 lb-ft)
0-60 Mph 2.0L 16V:
Approx. 9.2 seconds
0-60 Mph 2.0L 20V Turbo:
Approx. 6.5 seconds
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point fuel injection (MPI) or Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) for turbocharged variants
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (RON 95 or higher recommended for performance variants)
ECU System:
Bosch Motronic (specific version varies by engine and market)
Transmission Type Base:
5-speed manual
Transmission Type Optional:
4-speed automatic (ZF 4HP16 or similar)
Performance Transmission:
6-speed manual (for 20V Turbo models)
Clutch Type:
Hydraulically operated single dry plate clutch
Manual Fluid Spec:
API GL-4 or GL-5, SAE 75W-90 synthetic gear oil (refer to manual for specific fill)
Automatic Fluid Spec:
Dexron III (or equivalent ATF)
Length:
Approx. 4295 mm (169.1 in)
Width:
Approx. 1780 mm (70.1 in)
Height:
Approx. 1370 mm (53.9 in)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2545 mm (100.2 in)
Curb Weight 2.0L 16V:
Approx. 1300-1400 kg (2866-3086 lbs)
Curb Weight 2.0L 20V Turbo:
Approx. 1450-1550 kg (3197-3417 lbs)
Trunk Capacity:
Approx. 350 liters (12.3 cu ft)
Euro Ncap Rating:
Not extensively tested under current Euro NCAP protocols, but generally considered average for its era.
ABS:
Standard on most models, particularly higher-spec and turbocharged variants.
Traction Control:
Optional on some higher-spec models, especially 20V Turbo.
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags standard from mid-production; side airbags optional/standard on later models.
Seatbelts:
Pre-tensioning front seatbelts
Chassis Design:
Designed with crumple zones and reinforced passenger cell.
Head Unit:
Factory fitted radio/cassette or CD player, often with steering wheel controls in later models. Aftermarket upgrades are common.
Speaker System:
Basic speaker setup, with upgrades available in higher trims or as aftermarket options.
ABS System:
Anti-lock Braking System (Bosch or other) on many models, crucial for safe stopping.
Cruise Control:
Optional on many variants, particularly the more comfortable touring-oriented models.
Bluetooth Support:
Not factory equipped; requires aftermarket integration.
Auxiliary Input:
Not factory equipped; requires aftermarket integration.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 10,000-15,000 km (6,000-9,000 miles) or 1 year, whichever comes first (synthetic oil recommended).
Timing Belt Replacement:
Every 80,000-100,000 km (50,000-60,000 miles) or 5 years. Critical due to interference engine design.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 40,000-60,000 km (25,000-37,000 miles) depending on type.
Coolant Flush:
Every 2-3 years or 40,000-60,000 km.
Engine Oil Spec:
API SL/CF, ACEA A3/B4, Viscosity 5W-40 or 10W-40 (check manual for specific engine variant).
Coolant Spec:
Ethylene glycol-based coolant with anti-corrosion additives, typically a pink or red concentrate (e.g., Paraflu UP).
Rust Corrosion:
Prone to rust, especially around wheel arches, sills, and rear bodywork. Early models are more susceptible.
Electrical Gremlins:
Can suffer from minor electrical issues, often related to aged wiring or connections (e.g., window motors, central locking).
Timing Belt Failure:
Critical to adhere to replacement intervals; failure can cause catastrophic engine damage due to interference design.
Turbocharger Issues 20Vt:
Turbocharger seals can wear, leading to oil consumption or loss of boost if not maintained properly (regular oil changes and proper warm-up/cool-down are key).
Suspension Wear:
Worn ball joints, bushings, and shock absorbers are common with age and mileage, affecting handling and ride quality.
Manufacturer:
Fiat Auto S.p.A.
Italian Design Legacy:
Built on Fiat's tradition of distinctive and stylish Italian design.
Facelift:
Significant facelift in 1997 introducing redesigned interior, improved engines, and updated styling (e.g., new headlights, grille).
Engine Updates:
Introduction of the 20-valve 5-cylinder engines (naturally aspirated and turbo) in later years, significantly boosting performance.
Production Location:
Mirafiori plant, Turin, Italy
Total Production Approx:
Around 100,000 units
Design Awards:
Frequently praised for its unique and timeless design by automotive critics and the public. Was a finalist for European Car of the Year 1996.
Value For Money:
Often cited as offering strong performance and style for its price point when new, and remains a good value in the used market for enthusiasts.
Manufacturer Certification:
Built to Fiat's internal quality and safety standards of the era.
