Segment:
Compact family car / Hatchback
Brand Perception:
Sporty, driver-focused, Italian styling
Key Competitors 1987:
Volkswagen Golf, Ford Escort, Opel Kadett/Vauxhall Astra, Peugeot 309
Engine Layout:
Front-wheel drive with transversely mounted Boxer engines
Body Styles:
3-door and 5-door hatchback, later sedan (33)'s predecessor, Alfasud, was known for its saloon body.
Unique Selling Points:
Distinctive Italian design, engaging driving dynamics, Boxer engine character
Engine Mechanical:
Comprehensive (including Boxer engine specifics)
Engine Management Fuel:
Carburetor (Dell'Orto/Weber) and early fuel injection systems
Ignition System:
Distributor-based ignition systems
Cooling System:
Radiator, thermostat, fan, coolant circulation
Lubrication System:
Oil pump, oil filter, oil passages, oil type specifications
Transmission Manual:
Gearbox (5-speed), clutch operation, removal and installation
Transmission Automatic:
Optional automatic transmission (if applicable, coverage may vary)
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive, driveshafts, CV joints
Suspension Front:
MacPherson strut, wishbones, anti-roll bar
Suspension Rear:
Trailing arms, coil springs, shock absorbers
Steering System:
Rack and pinion, steering column, power steering (if equipped)
Braking System:
Front discs, rear drums/discs, hydraulic system, brake bleeding
Electrical System Charging:
Alternator, voltage regulator, battery
Electrical System Starting:
Starter motor, ignition switch
Lighting System:
Headlights, taillights, interior lighting, wiring diagrams
Instrumentation:
Dashboard gauges, warning lights, sensor diagnostics
Body Exterior:
Body panels, doors, hood, trunk, glass, trim
Body Interior:
Seats, carpets, dashboard, trim panels
HVAC System:
Heating, ventilation, air conditioning (if equipped)
Body Electronics:
Wipers, horn, central locking (if equipped)
Routine Maintenance:
Oil change, filter replacement, spark plug replacement, fluid checks
Troubleshooting Diagnostics:
Systematic fault finding, common problems and solutions
Engine Overhaul:
Complete engine rebuild procedures, component specifications
Transmission Repair:
Gearbox disassembly, inspection, and reassembly
Brake System Repair:
Disc/drum replacement, caliper/cylinder servicing, line replacement
Suspension Component Replacement:
Strut, ball joint, bushing, shock absorber replacement
Electrical Component Testing:
Testing alternators, starter motors, sensors, switches
Bodywork Repair:
Panel alignment, rust repair (general guidelines), trim fitting
HVAC Repair:
Component replacement (blower motor, condenser, evaporator), refrigerant handling (general)
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed electrical schematics for various systems
Depth:
Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to full engine/transmission rebuilds)
Engine Type:
Naturally aspirated Boxer (Flat) 4-cylinder
Displacement Options:
1.3L, 1.4L, 1.5L, 1.7L (various configurations for 1987 model year)
Engine Code Example:
AR301xx series (for Boxer engines)
Horsepower Range:
Approx. 75-115 hp (depending on engine variant)
Torque Range:
Approx. 110-150 Nm (depending on engine variant)
Fuel Delivery:
Twin-choke downdraft carburetors (e.g., Dell'Orto FZD, Weber IDF) or early Bosch L-Jetronic fuel injection on some variants.
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Petrol (as per 1987 regulations, manual will specify octane rating)
Timing Belt Chain:
Timing belt driven camshafts (often requiring specific tensioner adjustment)
Engine Cooling:
Liquid-cooled
Oil Change:
Every 5,000 - 7,500 km or 6-12 months (check manual for exact recommendation)
Timing Belt Replacement:
Typically every 40,000 - 60,000 km or 3-4 years (critical interval)
Engine Oil:
API SG or SF, SAE 10W-40 or 15W-40 (check manual for specific viscosity based on climate)
Coolant:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze, typically 50/50 mix with distilled water
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 gear oil
Rust:
Common issue, especially on sills, wheel arches, and floor pans. Underbody rust prevention is vital.
Carburetor Tuning:
Carburetors can require periodic adjustment and cleaning for optimal performance.
Suspension Bushings:
Wear in rubber bushings leading to vague handling and knocking noises.
Electrical Connections:
Corrosion or degradation of electrical connectors, particularly grounding points.
Engine Mounts:
Wear in engine mounts can lead to increased vibration.