Market Segment:
Luxury executive sedan
Design Philosophy:
Elegant Italian styling, sporty performance, and sophisticated engineering.
Primary Competitors:
BMW 5 Series, Mercedes-Benz E-Class, Audi 100/A6, Volvo 850, Lexus LS400.
Design Language:
Designed by Pininfarina, known for its aerodynamic and distinctive wedge shape.
Powertrain Options:
Renowned Alfa Romeo V6 engines, offering a blend of performance and a characteristic exhaust note.
Interior Appointments:
Luxurious interior with high-quality materials, ergonomic seating, and advanced (for its time) features.
Diy Advantage:
Empowers owners to perform maintenance and repairs themselves, saving significant costs and fostering a deeper understanding of their vehicle.
Diagnostic Capability:
Enables accurate diagnosis of issues through detailed troubleshooting guides and electrical schematics.
Technical Clarity:
Presents complex procedures in a step-by-step, easily understandable format.
Engine:
Detailed diagnosis, repair, and overhaul procedures for Alfa Romeo V6 engines (e.g., Busso V6, potentially including 2.0 Twin Spark for certain markets).
Transmission:
Manual and automatic transmission service, repair, and overhaul procedures.
Electrical System:
Extensive coverage of wiring diagrams, component testing, diagnosis, and repair of all electrical systems, including lighting, ignition, fuel injection, climate control, and power accessories.
Fuel System:
Diagnosis and repair of fuel injection systems, fuel pumps, injectors, fuel lines, and evaporative emission controls.
Braking System:
Service and repair procedures for hydraulic brake systems, including ABS (if equipped), brake lines, calipers, pads, rotors, and master cylinder.
Suspension Steering:
Detailed information on front and rear suspension components, alignment, power steering system, and steering linkage.
Bodywork Chassis:
Information on body panel repair, structural components, chassis adjustments, and collision repair guidelines.
Climate Control:
Diagnosis and repair of HVAC systems, including AC compressor, refrigerant circuits, blower motor, and controls.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance tasks, fluid changes, filter replacements, and general upkeep procedures.
Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic procedures for identifying and resolving common and complex vehicle issues.
Repair:
Step-by-step instructions for repairing and replacing various vehicle components and systems.
Rebuilds:
Detailed procedures for engine and transmission rebuilds.
Adjustments:
Procedures for adjusting various systems, such as clutch, brakes, and idle speed.
Depth Level:
Comprehensive, covering basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls.
Engine Family:
Alfa Romeo V6 'Busso' (3.0L for most North American models, potentially other displacements like 2.0L Twin Spark for European markets).
Engine Configuration:
60-degree V6, DOHC (Dual Overhead Camshafts)
Displacement:
Approximately 2959 cc (for 3.0L variant)
Horsepower Peak:
Around 188-190 hp @ 6000 rpm (for 3.0L)
Torque Peak:
Around 260-270 Nm (for 3.0L)
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch Motronic electronic fuel injection (EFI) system.
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (Octane rating as specified in manual).
Ignition Type:
Electronic ignition, distributorless ignition system (DIS) potentially on later models.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water (specifics in manual).
Transmission Type Std:
5-speed manual transmission (e.g., Fiat Type 356/357 or Getrag units depending on market/year).
Transmission Type Opt:
4-speed automatic transmission (e.g., ZF 4HP-22).
Clutch Type:
Hydraulically operated single-plate dry clutch for manual transmissions.
Manual Transmission Fluid:
GL-4 gear oil, viscosity typically 75W-90 or 80W-90 (specifics in manual).
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron III or equivalent ATF (specifics in manual).
Length:
Approx. 4630 mm (182.3 in)
Width:
Approx. 1750 mm (68.9 in)
Height:
Approx. 1380 mm (54.3 in)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1400-1500 kg (depending on equipment and engine)
Gross Vehicle Weight:
Refer to specific vehicle plate or manual.
Crash Test Data:
Limited official crash test data from this era, but known for robust chassis construction.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available as an option or standard on higher trims.
Airbags:
Driver airbag standard on most models from 1991 onwards. Passenger airbag may be optional.
Seatbelts:
Three-point inertia reel seatbelts front and rear.
Audio System:
Factory fitted radio/cassette player, often with premium sound system options (e.g., Blaupunkt).
Climate Control Tech:
Automatic climate control with manual override and recirculation function.
Cruise Control:
Standard or optional cruise control system.
Connectivity Features:
Limited by modern standards; primarily focused on vehicle systems. No integrated Bluetooth or infotainment mirroring.
Oil Change:
Every 10,000 km or 6 months, whichever comes first (refer to manual for specific engine/oil type).
Timing Belt Replacement:
Crucial for V6 engines. Interval typically 50,000-80,000 km or 4-5 years. Critical to follow manual's recommendation to prevent catastrophic engine damage.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Refer to manual for specific type and interval (e.g., iridium or platinum plugs).
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 5.0-5.5 liters (with filter) for 3.0L V6 (refer to manual for exact grade and specification).
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 8.0-9.0 liters (refer to manual for type and mix).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid (refer to manual for precise specification).
Electrical Gremlins:
Common for aging European cars; potential issues with wiring harnesses, sensors, and ECUs.
Suspension Wear:
Bushings and ball joints can wear over time, affecting handling and ride quality.
Rust Prevalence:
Can be susceptible to rust, particularly in wheel arches, sills, and door bottoms, depending on climate and care.
Clutch Wear:
Clutch wear is normal; replacement is a common maintenance item.
Brand Legacy:
Alfa Romeo, a storied Italian manufacturer with a rich history in motorsport and performance road cars.
Platform Origin:
Based on the Type Four platform, shared with Fiat Croma, Lancia Thema, and Saab 9000.
Design Era:
Second generation of the 164, following the original 1987 launch, featuring mid-cycle updates and engine refinements.
Production Period:
1987-1998 (This manual covers 1991-1993 sub-model years).
Manufacturing Base:
Milan, Italy.
Automotive Journalism Praise:
Consistently praised for its styling, driving dynamics, and the distinctive character of its V6 engine.
Design Awards:
Recognized for its Pininfarina design, often cited as one of the most beautiful sedans of its era.
