Vehicle Segment:
Compact/Small Family Car
Brand Perception:
Sporty handling, Italian design, enthusiast appeal
Key Competitors:
Volkswagen Golf, Ford Focus, Opel/Vauxhall Astra, Peugeot 306, Fiat Bravo/Brava
Design Philosophy:
Styling by Pininfarina (exterior for 145), practical hatchback design
Technical Highlights:
Availability of Alfa Romeo's signature Twin Spark engines
Engine:
All engine types, including Twin Spark (1.4, 1.6, 1.8, 2.0) and Diesel variants
Engine Management:
Fuel injection systems, ignition systems, emissions control
Transmission:
Manual and Selectronic (automatic) transmissions
Drivetrain:
Clutch, drive shafts, differentials
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension systems, shock absorbers, springs, bushings
Brakes:
Hydraulic systems, calipers, pads, discs, ABS (where applicable)
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, columns
Electrical System:
Battery, alternator, starter motor, lighting, fuse box, relays
Body And Chassis:
Body panels, doors, hinges, latches, interior trim, structural components
Heating Ventilation Air Conditioning:
HVAC system operation, components, and service
Interior Features:
Seats, airbags, seatbelts, dashboard, instruments
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, inspections
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides for common issues, fault code interpretation
Repair:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and adjustment
Overhaul:
Engine, transmission, and other major component rebuild procedures
Electrical Troubleshooting:
Wiring diagrams for all circuits, pinpoint testing procedures
Body Repair:
Dent removal, panel replacement, rust repair, paint preparation
Depth:
Factory level, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIYers
Illustrations:
Detailed diagrams, illustrations, and exploded views
Wiring Schematics:
Complete and detailed wiring diagrams for all systems
Specifications:
Comprehensive technical specifications, tolerances, and torque values
Printability:
Fully printable, allowing for enlarged images
Resolution:
High-resolution for clear viewing and printing
Binding Type:
Digital (Downloadable PDF), no physical binding
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital format)
Operating Systems:
Windows (7, Vista 32/64, XP, ME, 98, NT, 2000), macOS
Device Compatibility:
PC, Tablet, Mac
Software Requirements:
Adobe PDF Reader
Engine Family:
Alfa Romeo Twin Spark
Engine Variants:
1.4 L (1370 cc), 1.6 L (1598 cc), 1.8 L (1747 cc), 2.0 L (1970 cc) DOHC 16V
Power Range:
Approximately 90 HP to 155 HP depending on engine variant
Torque Range:
Approximately 120 Nm to 187 Nm depending on engine variant
Fuel Injection:
Multi-point electronic fuel injection (MPI)
Engine Orientation:
Transverse
Cylinder Configuration:
Inline 4-cylinder
Timing Drive:
Belt driven (Twin Spark uses two spark plugs per cylinder)
Body Styles:
3-door hatchback (145), 5-door hatchback (146)
Wheelbase:
Approximately 2520 mm
Length:
Approximately 4130 mm (145) / 4195 mm (146)
Width:
Approximately 1700 mm
Height:
Approximately 1415 mm
Curb Weight Range:
Approximately 1100-1250 kg
Gross Vehicle Weight:
Varies by model and engine
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
4x98 mm
Tire Sizes:
Commonly 185/65 R14, 195/55 R15, 205/50 R15 (depending on trim and engine)
Euro Ncap Rating:
Not extensively rated by modern standards, early 3-star occupant protection likely
ABS:
Optional on many models, standard on higher trims
Airbags:
Driver airbag standard, passenger airbag optional on many models
Seatbelts:
Pre-tensioned front seatbelts
Chassis Design:
Safety cell with crumple zones
Audio System:
Factory fitted radio/cassette or CD player, often with optional CD changer
Speaker System:
Varies by trim level, typically 4-6 speakers
Cruise Control:
Optional on higher trims
Parking Sensors:
Not typically factory fitted for this era
Bluetooth:
Not standard; aftermarket options available
Usb Port:
Not standard; aftermarket options available
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 10,000-15,000 km or 12 months (refer to manual for specific engine)
Timing Belt Replacement:
Critical; typically 60,000-100,000 km or 5-7 years for Twin Spark engines (consult manual for exact interval and procedure)
Engine Oil Specification:
API SG/SH or ACEA A2/A3; viscosity typically 10W-40 or 5W-40 (check manual)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze/coolant, typically pink or red (OAT type) - check manual for specific type
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Transmission Fluid Type Manual:
API GL-4; SAE 75W-80 or 75W-90 gear oil
Engine Issues:
Timing belt tensioner and water pump failure, oil leaks, ignition coil issues (Twin Spark), thermostat housing leaks
Electrical Issues:
Corrosion in wiring connectors, minor electrical gremlins, central locking issues
Body Issues:
Rust ingress in wheel arches, sills, and door bottoms; aging interior plastics
Suspension Issues:
Wear in bushings (wishbone, anti-roll bar), ball joint wear
