Segment:
Compact Sportscar / Roadster
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts, owners, mechanics specializing in classic European sports cars.
Competitors:
Alfa Romeo Spider, MG MGB, Triumph TR6, Datsun 240Z/260Z/280Z.
Design Philosophy:
Lightweight, rear-wheel-drive Italian design with a focus on driving enjoyment and open-air motoring.
Value Proposition:
Comprehensive factory documentation for maintaining and repairing a classic Italian sports car, covering both major engine variants.
Engine Mechanical:
Complete engine overhaul, disassembly, assembly, tuning, lubrication system, cooling system, fuel system (carburetor and injection), exhaust system.
Engine Electrical:
Ignition system, starter system, charging system (alternator/generator), fuel injection control (if applicable), wiring diagrams, component testing.
Transmission Drivetrain:
Manual transmission overhaul, clutch system, driveshaft, rear axle assembly, differential.
Suspension Steering:
Front and rear suspension components, steering gear, power steering system (if equipped), wheel alignment specifications.
Brakes:
Hydraulic brake system, front and rear brake assemblies (disc and drum where applicable), parking brake, brake fluid specifications.
Body Chassis:
Body structure, panels, doors, convertible top mechanism, interior trim, chassis components, jacking and lifting points.
Electrical Components:
Lighting system, instrumentation, wipers, horn, heating and ventilation system, power windows (if equipped).
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance checks, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, belt adjustments, fluid level checks and top-offs.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common problems, symptom-based troubleshooting charts, electrical diagnostic flowcharts.
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for all major mechanical and electrical components, including component removal, overhaul, and installation.
Diagnostics:
Detailed diagnostic procedures, including ignition timing, idle speed adjustment, fuel mixture analysis, and electrical circuit testing.
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed specifications and torque values.
Engine Code Examples:
124 AC.000 (1.8L Carbureted), 132 AC.000 (2.0L Carbureted), 132 D.000 (2.0L Fuel Injection)
1.8L:
1756 cc (107 cu in)
2.0L:
1995 cc (122 cu in)
1.8L Hp:
Approx. 90-98 hp (SAE Gross) depending on tuning and year
2.0L Hp:
Approx. 100-107 hp (SAE Gross) depending on tuning and year
2.0L Fi Hp:
Approx. 105-110 hp (SAE Gross)
Carbureted Examples:
Weber 34 DCNF, Solex C34 PAITA
Fuel Injection Examples:
Bosch L-Jetronic (later models)
Typical Carb:
8.8:1 to 9.8:1
Typical Fi:
9.5:1 to 10.0:1
Type:
4-speed Manual (early models), 5-speed Manual (later models)
Type:
3-speed Automatic (less common)
Clutch:
Hydraulically operated single dry plate clutch.
Fluid Spec Manual:
GL-4 Gear Oil (e.g., SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90)
Fluid Spec Automatic:
Dexron III (or equivalent ATF)
Length:
Approx. 3900-4000 mm (153.5-157.5 in)
Width:
Approx. 1610-1630 mm (63.4-64.2 in)
Height:
Approx. 1250-1270 mm (49.2-50.0 in)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2250 mm (88.6 in)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 950-1050 kg (2094-2315 lbs)
Crash Test Era:
Prior to modern standardized crash testing protocols. Focused on passive safety features of the era.
Brakes:
Front disc brakes standard across the range, rear drum brakes. Some later models may have offered optional rear discs.
Steering:
Responsive rack-and-pinion steering.
Body Structure:
Reinforced A-pillars and windshield frame for rollover protection, crumple zones incorporated into chassis design.
Seatbelts:
Standard seatbelts, typically lap and shoulder belts.
Oil Change:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles (5,000-8,000 km) or 6-12 months, depending on usage and oil type.
Filter Replacement:
At each oil change (oil filter, air filter as needed).
Spark Plugs:
Inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), replace as needed. Check manual for specific types and gap.
Timing Belt Chain:
These engines typically use a timing chain, requiring inspection for stretch and tension, but generally not a periodic replacement interval like a belt.
Engine Oil:
API SG or higher, SAE 20W-50 or 10W-40 (check manual for ambient temperature recommendations).
Coolant:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Check manual for specific type (e.g., green conventional).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (check manual for specific recommendation).
Rust Prone Areas:
Wheel arches, sills, floor pans, rear spring mounting points, convertible top well.
Carburetor Tuning:
Weber carburetors can require periodic adjustment for optimal performance and idle quality. Fuel injection systems may require injector cleaning or fuel pump checks.
Ignition System:
Points and condenser ignition systems require periodic gap and timing adjustments. Distributor cap and rotor wear.
Cooling System:
Radiator, hoses, and water pump can develop leaks over time. Thermostat failure can cause overheating.
Electrical Gremlins:
Aging wiring, connectors, and grounds can lead to intermittent electrical issues. Headlight switch, ignition switch wear.
Fiat Motorsport:
Fiat has a long and successful history in motorsport, particularly with rally racing, influencing the sporting character of models like the 124 Spider.
Styling Influence:
Designed by Pininfarina, it featured classic Italian sports car proportions and styling cues.
Model Designations:
Early models (AS) were 1.4L, later models (BS, CS, DS) saw engine displacements increase to 1.8L and 2.0L, with introduction of fuel injection in later CS/DS variants.
Manufacturing Location:
Turin, Italy.
Production Years Global:
1966-1985 (spanning various markets and updates).
