Segment:
Compact executive car
Reputation:
Known for sporting dynamics and distinctive Italian styling.
Key Competitors:
BMW 3 Series (E36), Mercedes-Benz C-Class (W202), Audi A4 (B5), Volvo S40/V40.
Design Philosophy:
Emphasis on driver engagement and performance, typical of Alfa Romeo.
Platform Sharing:
Shared platform with Fiat Tempra, but with significant chassis and suspension tuning.
Engine:
Detailed coverage of all engine variants (e.g., Twin Spark, V6 Busso), including disassembly, assembly, diagnostics, and tuning.
Transmission:
Manual and automatic transmission service, repair, and adjustment procedures.
Suspension And Steering:
Front and rear suspension, steering rack, power steering system repair and adjustment.
Brakes:
Brake system overhaul, including ABS (where applicable), fluid replacement, component diagnosis, and repair.
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, component testing, fuse box layout, lighting, ignition, and electronic control unit (ECU) diagnosis.
Bodywork And Chassis:
Body panel repair, door mechanisms, glass replacement, structural integrity checks.
Heating Ventilation Air Conditioning:
HVAC system servicing, refrigerant handling, component replacement, and diagnostics.
Fuel System:
Fuel pump, injectors, fuel tank, lines, and emissions control system repair and testing.
Maintenance:
Routine scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, spark plug service.
Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon faults, guided by symptoms.
Repair:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for component repair and replacement.
Disassembly Assembly:
Comprehensive instructions for dismantling and reassembling all major vehicle components.
Adjustments:
Precise instructions for adjustments, including valve clearances, timing, and emissions controls.
Depth:
Highly detailed, covering everything from basic servicing to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including electrical system diagnosis.
Special Tools:
Identifies and illustrates required special service tools for specific repair operations.
Specifications:
Includes crucial service data, torque specifications, wear limits, and factory tolerances.
Twin Spark:
Twin Spark engines (e.g., 1.8L, 2.0L) known for their twin-spark plug per cylinder technology for improved combustion efficiency and performance.
V6 Busso:
Optional V6 Busso engines (e.g., 2.5L, 3.0L) renowned for their distinctive sound and smooth power delivery.
Horsepower Range:
Approximately 120 hp to 230 hp depending on engine variant and specification.
Torque Range:
Approximately 165 Nm to 280 Nm.
Injection Type:
Electronic fuel injection (EFI) across most variants.
Emissions Control:
Catalytic converters and onboard diagnostics (OBD) systems introduced during the production run.
Type:
5-speed manual transmission was standard on most models.
Type:
Optional 4-speed automatic transmission was available on some variants.
All Wheel Drive:
Certain performance variants, notably the 155 Q4 and 155 GTA, featured permanent all-wheel drive systems.
Crash Test Data:
Limited standardized crash test data available from the era, but generally built with safety as a consideration for its class.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was available as an option or standard on higher trims.
Traction Control:
Traction control systems (ASR) were available on certain performance models.
Airbags:
Driver airbag became standard during the production run, passenger airbag was an option.
Oil Change:
Typically recommended every 10,000-15,000 km or 12 months, depending on usage and oil type.
Timing Belt:
Critical for Twin Spark engines: Timing belt replacement typically every 60,000-80,000 km or 5 years, due to interference engine design.
Engine Oil:
API SG/SH or ACEA A2/A3, viscosity typically 10W-40 or 10W-50 (refer to specific engine for exact spec). For V6, 10W-60 may be recommended for spirited driving.
Coolant:
Ethylene glycol-based coolant with corrosion inhibitors, typically a 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.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron III or equivalent ATF.
Engine Noise:
Twin Spark engines can develop 'diesel noise' from tappets if oil changes are neglected or incorrect oil is used.
Rust:
Prone to rust in common areas like wheel arches, sills, and around the windscreen, especially in regions with harsh winters.
Electrical Gremlins:
Older Italian cars can sometimes suffer from minor electrical faults, often related to wiring insulation degradation or connector issues.
Suspension Wear:
Bushings and ball joints can wear over time, affecting handling and ride quality.
Heritage:
Alfa Romeo has a long history of producing sporty and engaging cars with a strong motorsport pedigree.
Introduction:
Launched in 1992 as a successor to the Alfa Romeo 75 (Milano), aiming for a more modern and globally competitive platform.
Facelift:
Received a significant facelift in 1996, with revised styling (including a more integrated grille) and updated features.
Manufacturing:
Primarily manufactured in Italy.
