Positioning:
A practical guide for maintaining and repairing the Italian marque's compact wagon, aimed at both professional workshops and dedicated owners.
Competitors:
Competed against other compact European wagons and hatchbacks of the era. The 33 offered a distinct Italian flair and handling characteristics.
Manual Value:
Provides essential, often hard-to-find, factory-level information for a classic Alfa Romeo, enabling owners to preserve and operate their vehicles effectively.
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, engine management (carburetor/injection), cooling system, lubrication system, exhaust system
Drivetrain:
Clutch, gearbox (manual), differential, drive shafts, axles
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system, braking system (front and rear), wheels, tires
Electrical:
Battery, charging system, starting system, ignition system, lighting system, instrumentation, wiring diagrams, fuses, relays, ECUs
Bodywork:
Body panels, doors, windows, upholstery, trim, body repair procedures
HVAC:
Heating and ventilation systems
Maintenance:
Routine checks, fluid changes, filter replacements, lubrication points, inspection schedules
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common faults, symptom-based troubleshooting guides
Repair:
Step-by-step disassembly, assembly, and repair instructions for all major components and systems
Rebuilding:
Engine rebuild specifications, gearbox overhaul procedures
Adjustments:
Carburetor tuning, ignition timing adjustments, valve clearance adjustments
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering from basic maintenance to major overhauls and diagnostics. Suitable for professional technicians and skilled DIY enthusiasts.
Engine Type:
Inline 4-cylinder Boxer (Flat-4)
Displacement:
Typically 1.3L (1351cc) or 1.5L (1490cc) for this generation
Bore X Stroke:
Varies by specific engine variant (e.g., 80.0 mm x 66.0 mm for 1.3L, 84.0 mm x 68.0 mm for 1.5L)
Compression Ratio:
Typically 9.0:1 to 9.5:1
Horsepower:
Approximately 75-95 hp (depending on engine size and tuning)
Torque:
Approximately 105-125 Nm (depending on engine size and tuning)
Fuel Delivery:
Carbureted (e.g., Weber or Solex twin-choke carburetors) or Bosch L-Jetronic fuel injection (on later or higher-spec models)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (RON 91 or higher recommended)
Ignition System:
Distributor-based electronic ignition
Transmission Type:
5-speed Manual Transaxle
Optional Transmission:
Not commonly available for this model year and variant.
Gear Ratios:
Specific ratios are detailed within the manual, crucial for performance and economy tuning.
Fluid Type:
Manual Transmission Fluid (GL-4 specification, SAE 75W-90 or similar)
Fluid Capacity:
Approximately 1.7 - 2.0 liters
Crash Safety Era:
Safety standards of the mid-1980s, with front crumple zones and basic seat belts.
Brakes:
Front ventilated discs, rear drums. (Specific diameters vary by trim).
Steering:
Rack and pinion, often with power assistance on higher trims.
Seat Belts:
Three-point seat belts at front, lap belts at rear.
Body Structure:
Designed with passenger safety in mind, incorporating structural integrity for its class.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000 - 10,000 km or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 20,000 - 40,000 km
Timing Belt Replacement:
Crucial for Boxer engines; typically every 40,000 - 60,000 km or 4-5 years. Failure can cause catastrophic engine damage.
Engine Oil Type:
API SG/SF or ACEA A2/A3, SAE 10W-40 or 15W-40 (check manual for precise viscosity based on climate)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze/coolant, mixed with distilled water (50/50 ratio)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (check manual)
Rust Corrosion:
Prone to rust, especially in wheel arches, sills, and around the rear hatch.
Electrical Gremlins:
Older Alfa Romeos can suffer from intermittent electrical issues due to age and wiring quality.
Carburetor Tuning:
Carburetors require periodic adjustment and maintenance for optimal performance and fuel economy.
Clutch Wear:
Clutch can wear over time, especially in heavy use.
Brand Focus:
Alfa Romeo is renowned for its sporting heritage, distinctive Italian design, and engaging driving dynamics.
Predecessor:
Alfa Romeo Alfasud (the 33 was an evolution of the Alfasud platform)
Generation Details:
The Alfa Romeo 33 (Type 905) was introduced in 1983, replacing the Alfasud. The Sport Wagon variant was introduced in 1984. The 1985 model year represents a continuation of this generation with minor updates.
Production Period:
Alfa Romeo 33: 1983–1994 (Series 1: 1983–1989, Series 2: 1989–1994)
Manufacturing Location:
Italy (Pomigliano d'Arco plant)
