Segment:
Compact Sports Coupe
Design Philosophy:
Distinctive Italian styling, performance-oriented focus, and accessible pricing.
Key Competitors:
Toyota Celica, Honda Prelude, Mazda MX-6, Mitsubishi Eclipse, Ford Probe, Volkswagen Corrado.
Styling:
Unique angular design by Chris Bangle, prominent 'coupe' line, often praised for its unconventional aesthetics.
Performance Options:
Wide range of engines, including potent naturally aspirated and turbocharged variants, offering spirited performance.
Handling:
Front-wheel drive platform with well-balanced chassis, particularly praised in higher-performance turbo models.
Engine Variants Covered:
1.6L 16V (175A1.000), 1.8L 16V (175A3.000), 2.0L 16V (175A4.000), 2.0L 20V (175BC.000), 1.9L JTD (175A8.000), 2.0L Turbo 16V (175A1.048 - 155PS & 175A1.046 - 192PS), 2.0L Turbo Plus 20V (175BB.000 - 220PS)
Transmission Variants Covered:
5-speed manual, 6-speed manual
Trim Levels Covered:
All trims, including base, Plus, Limited Edition, and Turbo variants
Estimated Page Count:
500+
Type:
Service and Repair Manual
Engine:
Detailed diagnostics, repair, overhaul, and component specifications for all listed engine variants.
Transmission:
Service and repair procedures for 5-speed and 6-speed manual transmissions, clutch system, and gearbox components.
Brakes:
Hydraulic brake system, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) components, brake fluid, disc and pad replacement, and caliper servicing.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension geometry, shock absorbers, springs, bushings, control arms, and wheel alignment.
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, and steering column components.
Electrical System:
Complete wiring diagrams, fuse box layouts, starter, alternator, battery, lighting systems, ignition system, and ancillary electrical components.
Fuel System:
Fuel pump, injectors, fuel filter, fuel pressure regulator, and fuel tank servicing.
Cooling System:
Radiator, thermostat, water pump, cooling fan, hoses, and coolant specifications.
Exhaust System:
Exhaust manifold, catalytic converter, mufflers, pipes, and mounting hardware.
Body And Chassis:
Body panel removal and installation, doors, hood, trunk, interior trim, and chassis structural components.
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning system components, refrigerant, and servicing.
Safety Systems:
Airbag system (SRS) diagnostics and replacement, seatbelts.
Maintenance:
Oil and filter changes, spark plug replacement, air filter replacement, brake fluid flush, coolant flush, timing belt replacement (critical for many engines), accessory belt replacement.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts and step-by-step troubleshooting guides for common electrical and mechanical issues.
Repair:
Detailed instructions for component replacement, overhaul, and adjustment across all major vehicle systems.
Diagnostics:
Engine codes (OBD-I/OBD-II where applicable), sensor testing, and electrical component testing procedures.
Rebuild:
Engine and transmission overhaul procedures with specifications.
Depth:
Comprehensive, suitable for both DIY enthusiasts and professional technicians. Covers everything from basic maintenance to advanced engine and transmission rebuilds.
Engine Code Example:
175A4.000 (2.0L 16V)
Configuration:
Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve
Horsepower Example:
139 hp (103 kW) @ 6300 rpm (2.0L 16V)
Torque Example:
180 Nm (133 lb-ft) @ 4300 rpm (2.0L 16V)
Turbocharged Performance:
2.0L Turbo (155PS): 155 hp (115 kW); 2.0L Turbo (192PS): 192 hp (143 kW); 2.0L Turbo Plus (220PS): 220 hp (164 kW)
Induction:
Multi-point fuel injection (MPI) for naturally aspirated, Turbocharged with intercooler for turbo variants.
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (Octane rating as per regional requirements)
Timing Belt:
Crucial maintenance item, replacement recommended every 50,000-75,000 miles or 5 years due to potential for catastrophic engine damage if it fails.
Transmission Type Standard:
5-speed Manual Transmission
Transmission Type Optional:
6-speed Manual Transmission (typically on higher performance models like 20V and Turbo Plus)
Clutch Type:
Hydraulic Clutch Actuation
Transmission Fluid Type:
Refer to manual for specific Fiat/API GL-4/GL-5 gear oil specifications. Typically SAE 75W-90.
Length:
Approx. 4293 mm (169.0 in)
Width:
Approx. 1770 mm (69.7 in)
Height:
Approx. 1350 mm (53.1 in)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2540 mm (100.0 in)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1300-1450 kg (2866-3197 lbs), varies by engine and trim.
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Refer to vehicle's specific VIN plate.
Trunk Capacity:
Approx. 295 liters (10.4 cu ft)
Crash Test Results:
Euro NCAP ratings were not widely standardized or published for this specific era and model. Consult contemporary automotive reviews for available safety assessments.
ABS:
Available on most models, standard on higher trims and turbocharged variants.
Traction Control:
Limited slip differential (LSD) available on some performance models.
Airbags:
Driver and passenger front airbags standard on most models from mid-production onwards.
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts with pre-tensioners (front).
Body Structure:
Designed with crumple zones and reinforced passenger cell for crash energy management.
Audio System:
Factory fitted radio/cassette or CD player, with basic speaker setup. Aftermarket upgrades are common.
Displays:
Digital odometer, trip computer (on some models), climate control display.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available, a significant safety feature for its time.
Traction Control:
Traction Control System (TCS) was an option on some later models, particularly with more powerful engines.
Connectivity Options:
Basic connectivity for audio systems; no advanced Bluetooth or smartphone integration from factory.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 15,000 km (9,000 miles) or 12 months, whichever comes first. Check manual for specific engine types.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Critical: 60,000 km (37,000 miles) or 5 years for 16V engines, 70,000 km (43,000 miles) or 5 years for 20V engines. Always replace water pump and tensioners with the belt.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically every 40,000 - 60,000 km (25,000 - 37,000 miles), depending on plug type. Check manual for specific recommendations.
Engine Oil:
API SG/SH or higher, viscosity typically SAE 10W-40 or SAE 15W-40. Consult manual for specific engine requirements and oil capacity (approx. 4.5-5.5 liters).
Coolant:
Ethylene glycol based antifreeze. Fiat specification or equivalent. Capacity approx. 7.5-8.5 liters. Mix ratio 50/50 with distilled water.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4, depending on original specification. Capacity approx. 0.7 liters.
Power Steering Fluid:
ATF Dexron II or equivalent. Capacity approx. 1.0 liter.
Common Faults:
Timing belt failure (if not replaced on schedule), electrical gremlins (particularly minor sensor issues or connectors), suspension wear (bushings, ball joints), turbocharger issues on high-mileage turbo models, rust (especially wheel arches, sills, and rear chassis legs), minor interior trim rattles.
Turbo Specific Concerns:
Turbocharger seal wear leading to oil consumption or smoke, intercooler hose leaks, wastegate issues.
Engine Performance:
Idle control valve issues, MAF sensor faults, ignition coil failures.