Inline-4, Boxer (depending on specific Alfetta model variant)
Engine Displacement:
Commonly 1.6L, 1.8L, 2.0L (manual will cover all variants for 1979)
Fuel System:
Carbureted (e.g., Dell'Orto) or Spica mechanical fuel injection (depending on market and variant)
Performance
Horsepower Range:
Approximately 100-130 hp (depending on displacement and tuning)
Torque Range:
Approximately 110-140 lb-ft (depending on displacement and tuning)
Fuel System
Injection System Details:
Detailed coverage for both carbureted and Spica FI systems as applicable to 1979 models.
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Type:
5-speed Manual Transaxle (transaxle design is a hallmark of the Alfetta)
Optional
Type:
Rarely, an automatic transmission may have been offered in certain markets, but manual is primary.
Features
Gear Layout:
Rear-mounted transaxle for improved weight distribution (De Dion rear axle)
Fluid Type:
Manual transmission fluid (specific GL-4 or GL-5 specification will be detailed in manual)
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Body Styles:
Berlina (4-door sedan), GT (2-door coupe)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2,510 mm (98.8 in) for Berlina, 2,440 mm (96.1 in) for GT
Weights
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1,150-1,300 kg (2,535-2,866 lbs) depending on body style and engine
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
Crash Test Data:
N/A (Modern crash test data is not applicable to this era of vehicle).
Active Features
Braking System:
Four-wheel disc brakes (Inboard rear discs for reduced unsprung weight)
Passive Features
Seat Belts:
Standard seat belts
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Basic AM/FM radio, possibly with cassette player depending on original fitment.
Driver Assistance
Assistance Features:
None (Era-appropriate vehicle, no electronic driver aids).
Connectivity
Connectivity Features:
None (Era-appropriate vehicle, no modern connectivity).
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change:
Typically every 5,000-7,500 km (3,000-4,500 miles) or annually, as detailed in manual.
Tune Up:
Periodic checks of ignition, fueling, and emissions components, specified intervals in manual.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil:
Manual will specify SAE viscosity grade and API service classification (e.g., SAE 20W-50, API SF or higher).
Coolant:
Ethylene glycol-based coolant with appropriate water mix. Manual will specify type and capacity.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid, depending on system specifications. Manual will confirm.
Known Issues
Rust Corrosion:
Common issue for cars of this era, particularly in unpreserved areas. Manual may have bodywork repair sections.
Electrical Gremlins:
Older wiring can degrade; manual's wiring diagrams are crucial for diagnosis.
Spica Fi Reliability:
Spica fuel injection systems can be temperamental and require specialized knowledge for repair and tuning, which this manual should provide.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Brand Legacy:
Alfa Romeo has a long-standing heritage of producing sporty and stylish Italian automobiles with a focus on driving dynamics.
Model Evolution
Alfetta Introduction:
The Alfetta (Type 116) was introduced in 1972, featuring a transaxle drivetrain and a focus on handling, a departure from previous Alfa Romeo designs.
Production
Production Years:
1972-1987
Key Design Elements:
Transaxle layout, De Dion rear axle, stylish Bertone coupe design (GT).
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Automotive Journalism:
The Alfetta was generally well-received by automotive journalists for its handling and sporty character, though reliability critiques were sometimes noted.
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