Positioning:
A popular compact family car from an era of distinct Italian design and engineering
Competitors:
Volkswagen Golf, Ford Escort, Fiat Ritmo/Strada, Peugeot 309
Design Philosophy:
Sporty aesthetics, practical hatchback layout, distinctive Alfa Romeo driving dynamics
Target Audience:
Professional technicians, DIY mechanics, Alfa Romeo enthusiasts
Benefit:
Enables informed decision-making for maintenance and repair, empowering owners to understand their vehicle's needs
Primary Coverage:
Mechanical and Electrical Systems, Bodywork, Maintenance, Repair
Engine Coverage:
All engines offered during the 1983-1989 model years
Transmission Coverage:
Manual transmissions
Estimated Page Count:
Variable (Typical for factory service manuals of this era is 800-1500 pages)
Manual Type:
Factory Service Manual / Workshop Manual / Repair Manual
Engine Mechanical:
Complete overhaul, timing belt replacement, lubrication system, cooling system, fuel system (carburetor/injection), exhaust system
Engine Management:
Ignition system, emission control systems, engine control unit (ECU) diagnosis (where applicable)
Transmission Mechanical:
Gearbox disassembly and assembly, clutch operation, driveshafts, differentials
Braking System:
Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes (or disc depending on variant), hydraulic system, parking brake
Suspension Steering:
Front MacPherson struts, rear torsion beam or trailing arms, steering rack, power steering (if equipped)
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, starter motor, alternator, battery, lighting system, instruments, dashboard, interior electrics
Body Chassis:
Body repair, panel replacement, door mechanisms, glass, seals, frame specifications
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, tune-ups, fluid checks
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting common faults, symptom-based diagnosis, fault code interpretation (for fuel injection models)
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for all major components and systems
Disassembly Assembly:
Detailed procedures for removing and refitting all vehicle components
Special Tools:
Identification and use of specialized tools required for specific repairs
Depth:
Comprehensive, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts
Engine Type:
Alfa Romeo Boxer (Flat-4)
Engine Displacement Early:
1.3 Liters (1351 cc)
Engine Displacement Later:
1.5 Liters (1490 cc)
Engine Displacement Diesel:
1.9 Liters (1929 cc) Diesel (less common, but covered if applicable)
Horsepower Early 1.3:
Approx. 75-85 hp (depending on market and tuning)
Horsepower Later 1.5:
Approx. 95-105 hp (depending on market and tuning)
Horsepower 1.7 16V:
Approx. 115-130 hp (for later 1.7 models within the range)
Fuel System Early:
Twin-choke Carburetor (e.g., Weber 34 DAT)
Fuel System Later:
Bosch L-Jetronic or Motronic Fuel Injection (for some 1.5 and 1.7 models)
Length:
Approx. 4045 mm (159.3 in)
Width:
Approx. 1640 mm (64.6 in)
Height:
Approx. 1370 mm (53.9 in)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2510 mm (98.8 in)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 950-1050 kg (2094-2315 lbs) depending on engine and trim
Audio System:
Basic radio/cassette player, often aftermarket upgrades
Instrumentation:
Analog gauges for speed, RPM, fuel, temperature; warning lights
ABS:
Not typically equipped on early models, may have been an option on later variants
Power Steering:
Optional on some models, not standard across the range
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000 - 7,500 km (3,000 - 4,500 miles) or 6-12 months
Timing Belt Replacement:
Crucial; typically every 40,000 - 60,000 km (25,000 - 37,000 miles) or 3-5 years due to interference engine design
Engine Oil Type:
Refer to manual, typically SAE 10W-40 or 15W-50 API SG or higher
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze, typically 50/50 mix with distilled water
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Transmission Oil Type:
Refer to manual, typically GL-4 manual transmission fluid
Rust Prone Areas:
Wheel arches, sills, door bottoms, boot floor
Engine Specifics:
Carburetor tuning sensitivity, potential for head gasket issues if overheated, timing belt criticality
Electrical Quirks:
Can be prone to minor electrical gremlins over time, requiring thorough inspection of wiring and grounds
Brand Focus:
Italian manufacturer renowned for sporty cars, elegant design, and passionate driving experience
Predecessor:
Alfa Romeo Alfasud
Successor:
Alfa Romeo 145/146 (though distinct in platform)
Production Period:
1983-1997 (entire 33 model life, but this manual covers the first generation)
Manufacturing Base:
Pomigliano d'Arco, Italy
