Vehicle Segment:
Compact rear-wheel-drive sports convertible
Key Competitors Era:
Mazda RX-7 (FB), Toyota MR2 (AW11), Datsun 240Z/260Z/280Z (earlier), Triumph Spitfire, MG Midget
Design Philosophy:
Lightweight, agile, classic Italian styling, rear-wheel-drive driving dynamics
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts seeking an affordable, stylish, and engaging driving experience
Primary Coverage:
Mechanical, electrical, and body repair and maintenance
Specific Sections:
Engine (00-50, 51-100, 101-170), Electrical, Brakes, Clutch, Drive Shaft, Rear Axle, Steering, Suspension, Body, Accessories, Timing Belt Replacement, General Info and Maintenance, Transmission, Table of Contents, Intro
Estimated Pages:
Varies based on specific factory publications, typically several hundred pages for a comprehensive manual
Type:
Factory Service Repair Manual
Powertrain:
Engine, clutch, transmission, drive shaft, rear axle
Chassis:
Brakes, steering, suspension, wheels, tires
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, lighting, ignition, starting system, charging system, accessories
Body And Interior:
Body panels, trim, seats, convertible top mechanism
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, fluid level checks, lubrication
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides for common issues, symptom-based diagnostics
Repair:
Engine overhaul, transmission repair, brake system service, suspension component replacement, electrical system repair
Special Procedures:
Timing belt replacement (with specific helper section)
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering detailed disassembly, assembly, adjustment, and diagnostic procedures
Data Provided:
Torque specifications, fluid capacities, engine specifications, wiring diagrams, component testing procedures
Requirements:
Adobe PDF Reader & WinZip
Operating Systems:
All Versions of Windows & Mac
Quality:
Assumed high quality for factory documentation, optimized for digital viewing and printing
Digital Binding:
N/A (Digital PDF)
Digital Paper Simulation:
N/A (Digital PDF)
Engine Code:
132.B.000 (1.6L DOHC), 132.A.000 (1.8L SOHC - common in earlier models, may be referenced for context)
Engine Type:
Inline 4-cylinder, DOHC (for 1.6L)
Displacement:
1592 cc (1.6 Liters)
Bore X Stroke:
80 mm x 79.2 mm (for 1.6L)
Horsepower:
Approx. 85-95 hp (depending on market and specific configuration, e.g., fuel injection vs. carburetor)
Torque:
Approx. 90-100 lb-ft (depending on specific configuration)
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch L-Jetronic Fuel Injection (common for 1984 models)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze (typically 50/50 mix with distilled water)
Oil Type:
API SG or higher, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 recommended (consult manual for exact specification)
Belt Material:
Reinforced rubber composite with internal tension members
Type:
5-speed Manual Transaxle (Rear-wheel drive)
Type:
3-speed Automatic Transmission (less common, usually Aisin Warner)
Fluid Type:
GL-4 Hypoid Gear Oil, SAE 80W-90 (manual transaxle). Consult manual for automatic transmission fluid.
Length:
Approx. 3970 mm (156.3 in)
Width:
Approx. 1625 mm (64.0 in)
Height:
Approx. 1210 mm (47.6 in)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2290 mm (90.2 in)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1000 kg (2200 lbs)
Gvw:
Not typically specified as prominently as modern vehicles
Trunk Volume:
Limited, typical of a small sports car convertible
Crash Test Data:
Limited official crash test data available for this era and model from common agencies (NHTSA, IIHS)
Braking System:
Front disc brakes, Rear drum brakes
Steering Type:
Recirculating ball steering (typically without power assist)
Seat Belts:
Standard 3-point seat belts
Rollover Protection:
Basic windshield frame, no factory-integrated rollover bar
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 6-12 months, whichever comes first (recommendation based on era and type of use)
Timing Belt Replacement Interval:
Recommended every 40,000-60,000 miles or 4-5 years, due to potential for catastrophic engine damage if it breaks.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (consult manual for specific type and replacement interval)
Coolant:
50/50 mix of ethylene glycol antifreeze and distilled water
Power Steering Fluid:
Not typically equipped with power steering
Rust Prone Areas:
Wheel wells, rocker panels, floor pans, door bottoms, convertible top frame.
Electrical Gremlins:
Aging wiring harnesses, connections, and switches can lead to intermittent electrical problems.
Carburetor Issues:
Can require frequent adjustment or rebuilding if not properly maintained, particularly with age and fuel contamination.
Suspension Wear:
Bushings, ball joints, and tie rod ends can wear over time, affecting handling and ride quality.
Fiat Sports Cars:
Fiat has a long history of producing small, nimble, and stylish sports cars, dating back to the post-war era.
Spider Lineage:
The 124 Spider (or Fiat Dino Spider) built upon Fiat's reputation for stylish Italian design, offering a more affordable alternative to European exotics.
Production Years:
1966-1982 (original Fiat production), continued by Pininfarina as the Pininfarina Spider Azzurra/Europa from 1983-1985.
Manufacturing Location:
Turin, Italy (Fiat); later assembled by Pininfarina.
Contemporary Reviews:
Often praised for its styling, handling, and affordability in period road tests, though reliability could be variable.
Classic Car Status:
Considered a desirable classic Italian sports car, with a strong following among enthusiasts.
