Segment:
Compact Executive Sedan
Brand Philosophy:
Sporty, driver-focused Italian performance and design
Key Competitors:
BMW 3 Series, Mercedes-Benz 190E, Audi 80/90, Ford Sierra, Volvo 240
Design:
Distinctive wedge shape, distinctive Alfa Romeo grille, advanced transaxle layout for weight distribution
Drivetrain:
Rear-wheel drive, optional limited-slip differential (LSD)
Engine Layout:
Front-engine, rear-wheel drive
Target Audience:
DIY enthusiasts and professional mechanics
Primary Coverage:
Complete Factory Service Repair
Secondary Coverage:
Maintenance, Troubleshooting, Diagnostics, Repair, Wiring Diagrams, Emission Control
Estimated Page Count:
Varies, typically 500+ pages for comprehensive factory manuals
Type:
Workshop Service Repair Manual
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, cooling system, lubrication system, exhaust system
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system, braking system, wheels and tires
Electrical:
Starting and charging system, lighting system, instruments and gauges, ignition, body electrical components, wiring diagrams
Body:
Body panels, doors, windows, interior trim, heating and ventilation
Maintenance:
Periodic maintenance schedules, fluid checks and changes, filter replacements, lubrication
Repair:
Step-by-step repair procedures for all major vehicle systems, including detailed disassembly and reassembly instructions
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, common problem identification
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic adjustments to major component overhauls
Diagrams Illustrations:
High-quality diagrams, exploded views, and illustrations for clarity
Engine Code:
AR06112 (Busso V6)
Configuration:
60-degree V6
Displacement:
2492 cc (2.5 liters)
Horsepower:
Approximately 156 PS (154 hp) at 5400 rpm (European spec)
Torque:
Approximately 210 Nm (155 lb-ft) at 4000 rpm (European spec)
Induction:
Bosch L-Jetronic fuel injection
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (RON 95 or higher recommended)
Ignition System:
Electronic ignition (e.g., Bosch Motronic variant)
Oil Capacity:
Approximately 5.0 liters (5.3 US quarts) with filter change
Block Material:
Aluminum alloy
Cylinder Head Material:
Aluminum alloy
Type:
5-speed manual transaxle (e.g., ZF S5-24/3)
Type:
3-speed automatic (e.g., ZF 3HP22)
Layout:
Transaxle (gearbox and differential combined in a single unit at the rear axle)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
GL-4 SAE 75W-90 or GL-4 SAE 75W-80 (specifics to be confirmed in manual)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
ZF TE-ML 11A or equivalent ATF (specifics to be confirmed in manual)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2500 mm (98.4 in)
Length:
Approx. 4340 mm (170.9 in)
Width:
Approx. 1680 mm (66.1 in)
Height:
Approx. 1370 mm (53.9 in)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1250-1350 kg (2755-2976 lbs)
Standard Wheel Size:
14-inch or 15-inch alloy wheels
Standard Tire Size:
e.g., 195/60VR14 or 195/55VR15
Crash Test Data:
Limited data available for this era, but generally designed to contemporary European standards.
Brakes:
Front: Ventilated discs; Rear: Discs
ABS:
Optional on some models/markets during this period.
Seatbelts:
Standard front seatbelts, rear seatbelts may vary by market.
Headrests:
Front and rear headrests.
Oil Change:
Every 5,000-10,000 km (3,000-6,000 miles) or 6-12 months, depending on usage. (Consult manual for precise intervals).
Spark Plugs:
Check/replace as per manual, typically around 20,000-40,000 km (12,000-24,000 miles).
Timing Belt:
CRITICAL: Replacement interval typically every 40,000-60,000 km (25,000-37,000 miles) or 4-5 years. Failure can cause catastrophic engine damage.
Engine Oil Viscosity:
SAE 10W-40 or SAE 15W-50 (API SG/SH or equivalent) - check manual for specific recommendation.
Coolant:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze, mixed 50/50 with distilled water. Refer to manual for specific type and capacity.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (check manual for confirmation)
Rust Corrosion:
Prone to rust in wheel arches, sills, and around window seals, especially in humid climates.
Electrical Gremlins:
Can suffer from aging wiring looms, brittle connectors, and minor electrical faults, particularly after many years.
Engine Management Aging:
Fuel injection and ignition system components (e.g., airflow meter, injectors, coil packs) can wear out.
Transaxle Clunk:
Some models may develop a 'clunk' from the rear transaxle under acceleration/deceleration due to worn U-joints or differential mounts.
Founding Principles:
Founded on racing heritage, engineering excellence, and passionate Italian design.
Predecessor:
Alfa Romeo Giulietta (Nuova Giulietta)
Successor:
Alfa Romeo 155
Production Period:
1985-1992
Manufacturing Plant:
Alfa Romeo's plants in Italy (primarily Pomigliano d'Arco and Arese)
Meaning:
Named after Milan, Italy (Milano) and its founding year (1860), referencing the company's origins.
