🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Alfa Romeo

Model:

33

Chassis Codes:

Series 905, Series 907, Series 907E

👋 Introduction

Market Segment:

Compact family car, known for its distinctive boxer engines and sporty handling characteristics.

Competitors:

Competed against vehicles like the Volkswagen Golf, Ford Escort, Fiat Ritmo/ Strada, Renault 9/11, and Opel Kadett.

Unique Selling Points:

Unique boxer engine layout, distinctive Italian styling, sporty driving dynamics, practical hatchback body style.

📋 Manual Details

Manual Type:

Workshop Manual / Service Manual / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Instant Download (Digital PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Detailed overhaul procedures for Boxer engines (1.3L, 1.5L, 1.7L, 1.7 QV, 1.7 IE) including timing belts, valve adjustments, piston/cylinder, crankshaft, camshafts, cooling system, lubrication system.

Fuel System:

Carburetor (Weber, Solex) and Injection (Bosch LE2-Jetronic, Motronic) system diagnosis, repair, and tuning, fuel pump, injectors, fuel pressure regulation.

Ignition System:

Diagnosis and repair of electronic ignition systems, coil, distributor, ignition timing, spark plugs.

Transmission:

Manual gearbox (5-speed) overhaul, clutch replacement, synchromesh operation, differential, driveshafts.

Suspension:

Front MacPherson strut, rear trailing arm suspension, springs, shock absorbers, bushings, alignment specifications, ball joints, steering rack.

Brakes:

Hydraulic system, front discs, rear drums (or discs on later models), master cylinder, brake booster, ABS (if applicable), caliper and drum servicing, bleeding procedures.

Electrical System:

Wiring diagrams, component testing, starter motor, alternator, battery, lighting, fuses, relays, dashboard instruments, power windows, central locking.

Bodywork And Chassis:

Body panel repair, rust prevention, interior trim removal, door mechanisms, window regulators, seat adjustment, chassis identification.

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance tasks, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, belt tensioning, brake pad replacement, fluid checks and changes.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic flowcharts for common running issues, electrical faults, cooling system problems, starting difficulties.

Repair:

Step-by-step repair instructions for all major mechanical and electrical components, including engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, suspension and brake system repairs.

Technical Specifications:

Torque values, clearances, tolerances, fluid capacities, part numbers, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) where applicable.

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering everything from basic fluid checks and adjustments to full engine and transmission rebuilds, electrical system diagnostics, and bodywork repairs.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Searchability:

Searchable text for quick information retrieval.

Printability:

Printable pages for hands-on workshop use.

Image Quality:

High-resolution diagrams and illustrations.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Naturally Aspirated Boxer (Flat) 4-cylinder

Displacement Variants:

1.3L (1327 cc), 1.5L (1490 cc), 1.7L (1712 cc)

Horsepower Range:

Approx. 75 HP to 105 HP depending on engine and tuning (e.g., 1.7 QV)

Torque Range:

Approx. 105 Nm to 140 Nm depending on engine variant.

Fuel Delivery:

Carburetor (Weber 34 DCLS, Solex 32 DIDTA) or Fuel Injection (Bosch L-Jetronic variants)

Cooling Type:

Liquid-cooled

Oil Capacity:

Approx. 4.0 - 4.5 Litres (Varies by engine)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

5-speed Manual

Transmission Type:

3-speed Automatic (less common)

Drive Layout:

Front-wheel drive (FWD)

Gearbox Oil Capacity:

Approx. 2.0 Litres (Manual Transmission)

📐 Dimensions

Body Styles:

3-door Hatchback, 5-door Hatchback, 3-door Estate/Wagon (33 Giardinetta)

Length Approx:

3980 - 4140 mm

Width Approx:

1670 - 1690 mm

Height Approx:

1360 - 1430 mm

Curb Weight Approx:

950 - 1100 kg

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Era:

Vehicle safety standards were less stringent than modern times; specific crash test ratings may not be readily available or comparable.

Braking System:

Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes standard; optional front/rear discs and ABS on some later models.

Seatbelts:

Standard front seatbelts, often lap belts in rear on earlier models.

Body Structure:

Designed with a focus on driver and passenger protection within the standards of its time.

💡 Technology Features

Original System:

Basic AM/FM radio, often with cassette player. Speaker systems were relatively simple.

Upgrades Potential:

The manual will provide wiring details to facilitate aftermarket head unit installation.

ABS:

Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on higher trims or later models.

Original Connectivity:

No advanced connectivity features like Bluetooth or USB were standard.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change:

Every 10,000 km or 12 months, whichever comes first.

Timing Belt:

Recommended replacement every 60,000 km or 4-5 years due to the interference nature of the boxer engine.

Spark Plugs:

Inspect every 20,000 km, replace as needed or every 40,000 km.

Engine Oil Type:

API SG, ACEA A2-96. Recommended Viscosity: 10W-40 or 15W-40 (depending on climate).

Coolant Type:

Ethylene glycol based antifreeze, 50% mix with distilled water.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4

Gearbox Oil Type:

API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90

Rust Susceptibility:

Significant rust prone in wheel arches, sills, floor pans, and strut towers, especially in certain climates. Proactive rust prevention and repair are crucial.

Cooling System:

Potential for coolant leaks from hoses, water pump, and radiator. Early detection and replacement of aged components are key.

Timing Belt Tensioner:

Failure of the tensioner can lead to premature belt wear or catastrophic engine damage. Regular inspection and replacement are vital.

Electrical Gremlins:

As with many Italian cars of this era, electrical connections can corrode, leading to intermittent issues with lights, indicators, or engine management. Attention to wiring harness integrity is important.

📚 Vehicle History

Alfa Romeo Legacy:

Alfa Romeo's rich history in performance cars and sporting sedans dating back to 1910.

Predecessor:

Alfa Romeo Alfasud

Generations:

Series 905 (1983-1989), Series 907 (1989-1994, facelifted with improved aerodynamics and updated engines).

Production Period:

1983 - 1994

Manufacturing Location:

Pomigliano d'Arco, Italy

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Automotive Press:

Generally praised for its driving dynamics and distinctive character by automotive journalists of its era.

Reliability Perception:

Perceived reliability varied, often dependent on diligent maintenance and addressing common issues promptly. This manual is key to achieving good reliability.