Vehicle Segment:
Executive Sedan
Brand Positioning:
Known for sporty handling, stylish Italian design, and luxurious interiors.
Competitors 1991-1993:
BMW 5 Series (E34), Mercedes-Benz E-Class (W124), Audi 100/A6 (C3/C4), Lexus LS 400 (though typically a class above).
Design:
Pininfarina-designed exterior, aerodynamic profile, spacious and luxurious interior.
Performance:
Available with powerful V6 engines offering a blend of performance and refinement.
Technology:
Front-wheel drive platform (unique for Alfa Romeo at the time), sophisticated suspension for its era.
Value:
Saves time and money on repairs, enables informed maintenance, empowers owners to understand their vehicle.
Primary Coverage:
Service, Maintenance, Repair, Troubleshooting
Estimated Page Count:
Extensive (Specific page count not provided, but described as 'complete' and 'packed with all the information you need')
Type:
Professional Technical Service Repair Manual
Format:
PDF (Downloadable)
Engine:
Engine mechanical, engine management, fuel system, ignition system, cooling system, lubrication system, exhaust system
Transmission:
Manual and Automatic Transmission servicing, repair, and diagnostics
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive system, CV joints, differentials
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, alignment, shock absorbers, springs
Brakes:
Brake system hydraulics, disc brake service, ABS (if equipped)
Steering:
Power steering system, steering column, wheel alignment
Electrical:
Complete electrical system, wiring diagrams, lighting, instruments, starter, alternator, battery
Body And Chassis:
Body panels, interior trim, chassis components, corrosion protection
Heating And Air Conditioning:
HVAC system diagnosis and repair
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, tune-ups
Repair:
Component-level repair, engine rebuild, transmission overhaul, brake caliper replacement
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common and complex issues, fault code interpretation (if applicable)
Installation:
Component replacement and installation procedures
Depth:
Comprehensive from basic to advanced, including complete disassembly and reassembly
Target Audience:
Do-it-yourself enthusiasts and professional mechanics
Engine Type:
V6 (Busso V6)
Displacement:
3.0 Liters (2959 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
93.0 mm x 72.6 mm (typical for 3.0L Busso)
Compression Ratio:
Approx. 9.5:1 (varies slightly by specific model/tuning)
Fuel System:
Bosch Motronic electronic fuel injection (EFI)
Horsepower:
Approximately 200-210 hp (DIN) at 6000 rpm (for 3.0L)
Torque:
Approximately 270-280 Nm (199-207 lb-ft) at 4500 rpm (for 3.0L)
Valve Train:
DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder
Other Engine Variants:
2.0L V6 Turbo (12v and 24v), 3.0L V6 Twin Spark (not common for US models in these years), 3.0L V6 24v (later models)
Ignition System:
Electronic ignition, distributorless ignition system (DIS) on some variants.
Type:
5-speed Manual Transmission
Type:
4-speed Automatic Transmission (e.g., ZF 4HP22)
Drive Type:
Front-Wheel Drive (FWD)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron II or equivalent (check specific vehicle VIN and manual for exact spec)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 (check specific vehicle VIN and manual for exact spec)
Length:
Approx. 4643 mm (182.8 in)
Width:
Approx. 1765 mm (69.5 in)
Height:
Approx. 1420 mm (55.9 in)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2660 mm (104.7 in)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1450-1550 kg (3197-3417 lbs) depending on engine/transmission
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Typically around 2000 kg (4409 lbs)
Crash Test Data:
Limited publicly available data for this specific period from official bodies like NHTSA or Euro NCAP. Generally considered to have a robust chassis for its era.
ABS:
Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on higher trims or as an option.
Airbags:
Driver's side airbag typically standard or optional for these years; passenger airbag less common or later addition.
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners
Chassis Design:
Proconten (Alfa Romeo's passive safety system - steering column retracts in frontal impact)
Audio System:
Factory-installed Clarion or Blaupunkt radio/cassette player with optional CD changer. Speaker systems varied by trim.
Climate Control:
Automatic climate control (HVAC) with digital display on higher-spec models.
Cruise Control:
Standard or optional depending on market and trim level.
Original Connectivity:
Limited to analog systems of the era; no modern Bluetooth or USB connectivity from the factory.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000-7,500 miles (8,000-12,000 km) or 6-12 months, whichever comes first (consult manual for exact recommendation).
Timing Belt Replacement:
Crucial: Every 30,000-45,000 miles (48,000-72,000 km) for the 12v V6 engines. Failure leads to catastrophic engine damage. Consult manual for specific interval.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Varies by type, but typically 30,000-60,000 miles. Manual will specify for the correct plug type.
Engine Oil Type:
API SG/SH, ACEA A2-96/A3-98, SAE 10W-40 or 10W-30. Specific viscosity may vary with climate. Always verify with manual.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol based, with corrosion inhibitors. Typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Alfa Romeo recommended coolant or equivalent.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4, low viscosity. Ensure it is fresh and meets specifications.
Timing Belt Tensioner:
Failure of the timing belt tensioner is a common cause of belt failure; often recommended to replace with the belt.
Electrics:
Electrical gremlins can occur, especially with aging wiring harnesses and connectors. The manual will be invaluable for diagnosis.
Suspension Bushings:
Wear in suspension bushings can lead to imprecise handling and noise.
Rust Corrosion:
While generally well-protected, check wheel arches, sills, and underbody for potential rust issues, especially in climates with road salt.
Brand History:
Alfa Romeo, an Italian manufacturer with a long and storied history in motorsport and performance vehicles since 1910.
Introduction Year:
1987 (Europe), 1991 (North America)
Design Philosophy:
Designed to be a flagship sedan, combining Alfa Romeo's sporty character with luxury and practicality. First FWD Alfa Romeo.
Platform:
Tipo 164, shared with Lancia Thema, Fiat Croma, and Saab 9000 (Type Four platform)
Manufacturing Plant:
Arese, Milan, Italy
Production Years:
1987-1997 (across all generations)
