Positioning:
Essential resource for Alfa Romeo Alfasud owners and independent mechanics
Value Proposition:
Provides comprehensive DIY repair and maintenance information, reducing reliance on expensive specialist workshops
Uniqueness:
Covers the entirety of the Alfasud's mechanical and electrical systems, including often overlooked details
Utility:
Crucial for accurate parts ordering and efficient troubleshooting
Engine:
Complete engine tear-down and rebuild, including Boxer engine specifics
Fuel System:
Carburetor systems (Weber DCNF/IDF), fuel pump, fuel lines, tank
Ignition System:
Distributor, ignition coil, spark plugs, wiring
Cooling System:
Radiator, fan, coolant hoses, thermostat
Transmission:
Gearbox overhaul, clutch replacement, driveshafts
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive system, differential
Suspension:
Front Boxer engine layout suspension, rear suspension, springs, dampers
Steering:
Steering rack, steering column, tie rods
Brakes:
Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes, master cylinder, brake lines, parking brake
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, alternator, starter motor, battery, lighting, fuses, relays
Bodywork:
Body panel removal and installation, rust repair guidance
Interior:
Dashboard removal, seat removal, trim components
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, tune-ups
Troubleshooting:
Diagnosing common issues, fault finding procedures
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for all major components
Rebuild:
Complete engine and transmission rebuild procedures
Assembly:
Detailed assembly instructions for reassembly after repairs
Torque Specifications:
Torque settings for critical fasteners
Diagnostic Charts:
Troubleshooting flowcharts and diagnostic guides
Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to full engine rebuilds
Visuals:
Numerous pictures and diagrams
Diagrams:
Includes detailed part diagrams
Type:
Horizontally-opposed (Boxer) 4-cylinder, water-cooled
Displacement Variants:
1.2L (1186cc), 1.3L (1286cc), 1.35L (1350cc), 1.5L (1490cc), 1.7L (1712cc)
Horsepower Range:
63 hp to 105 hp (depending on engine variant)
Torque Range:
90 Nm to 130 Nm (depending on engine variant)
Carburetion:
Typically Weber twin-choke downdraft carburetors (e.g., 32 DCNF, 34 DCNF)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (later models)
Bore Stroke Common:
80.0 mm x 59.0 mm (1186cc)
Compression Ratio Common:
8.5:1 to 9.5:1 (depending on variant)
Valve Train:
DOHC (Double Overhead Camshafts) actuated by timing chains
Body Styles:
3-door hatchback, 4-door sedan, 5-door hatchback, 2-door coupé, 2-door convertible (rare)
Length Approx:
3,950 mm - 4,040 mm (depending on body style)
Width Approx:
1,620 mm - 1,640 mm
Height Approx:
1,350 mm - 1,390 mm
Curb Weight Range:
900 kg - 1050 kg (depending on model and equipment)
Crash Test Performance:
Era-appropriate safety standards; later models incorporated some safety improvements but generally lacked modern structural safety features.
Braking:
Front disc brakes (often ventilated on performance models), rear drum brakes.
Seatbelts:
Standard three-point seatbelts in the front, lap belts in the rear.
Body Construction:
Unitary body construction, designed with crumple zones.
Oil Change:
Every 5,000 - 7,500 km or annually
Spark Plugs:
Every 15,000 - 20,000 km
Timing Belt Chain:
Timing chain (low maintenance, but inspection is recommended)
Engine Oil:
API SG or SH, SAE 15W-40 or 20W-50 (check manual for exact viscosity based on temperature)
Coolant:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze, 50/50 mix with distilled water
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Rust Perforation:
Widespread and significant rust issues, particularly in sills, wheel arches, and floor pans.
Engine Oil Leaks:
Common leaks from valve covers, oil pan, and camshaft seals due to age and seal degradation.
Carburetor Tuning:
Requires regular tuning and adjustment of Weber carburetors for optimal performance and fuel economy.
Electrical Gremlins:
Aging wiring harnesses and connectors can lead to intermittent electrical faults.
Suspension Wear:
Wear in bushings, ball joints, and tie rod ends due to the sporty handling focus and age.
Heritage Connection:
Represents Alfa Romeo's foray into mass-market compact car production, distinct from their traditional rear-wheel-drive sport sedans.
Production Period:
1972 - 1983
Design Influence:
Designed by Bertone, featuring a distinctive wedge-shaped profile. The name 'Alfasud' translates to 'Alfa of the South,' referencing its production location in Southern Italy.
Manufacturing Location:
Alfa Romeo factory in Pomigliano d'Arco, Naples, Italy.
Key Variants:
Alfasud Berlina (4-door), Alfasud Sprint (2-door coupé), Alfasud Giardinetta (station wagon).
Automotive Journalism Awards:
Often praised by automotive journalists of its era for its handling, sporty character, and innovative boxer engine layout.
Performance Handling:
Highly regarded for its sharp, agile handling and good road holding, often outperforming contemporary rivals.
