Segment:
Executive/Luxury Sedan
Competitors:
BMW 5 Series, Mercedes-Benz E-Class, Audi 100/A6, Jaguar XJ, Lexus LS.
Design Philosophy:
Italian styling by Pininfarina, front-wheel drive layout, advanced (for its time) chassis dynamics, powerful V6 engines.
Manual Value Proposition:
Enables DIY repairs, saving significant costs on dealer or independent mechanic labor. Provides in-depth knowledge for owners and enthusiasts.
Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, disassembly, overhaul, timing belt replacement, piston/ring inspection, valve train service, lubrication system, cooling system.
Engine Management:
Fuel injection system (Bosch Motronic), ignition system, emissions control, ECU diagnosis and troubleshooting.
Transmission:
Manual transmission (Getrag 5-speed) and Automatic transmission (Jatco/ZF), clutch service, gearbox overhaul, torque converter, transmission control.
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive system, driveshafts, CV joints, differential service.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, struts, bushings, alignment specifications.
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, tie rod ends, steering column.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems (disc brakes), ABS (Bosch), brake fluid specifications, caliper overhaul, rotor replacement, parking brake.
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter motor), lighting system, instrumentation, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams.
Body And Chassis:
Body panel repair, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, glass, interior trim, chassis components, corrosion protection.
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system, refrigerant types, compressor service, climate control operation.
Restraints:
Seat belt systems, airbag system (if applicable for the model years).
Scheduled Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, brake fluid flush, coolant flush, timing belt replacement intervals and procedures.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common problems, fault code interpretation (OBD-I for early models, potentially early OBD-II depending on market and specific year). Step-by-step diagnostic trees.
Repair And Overhaul:
Detailed instructions for dismantling, repairing, and reassembling all major vehicle components and systems.
Diagnostic Tests:
Testing of electrical components, sensors, actuators, fuel pressure tests, compression tests.
Installation And Replacement:
Instructions for replacing common wear items and major components.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic fluid changes and filter replacements to complete engine and transmission rebuilds. Includes detailed diagnostic information.
Engine Type 1:
Alfa Romeo V6 Busso (Naturally Aspirated)
Displacement 1:
3.0 Liters (2959 cc)
Horsepower 1:
Approx. 190-210 hp (varies slightly by year/market)
Torque 1:
Approx. 230-250 Nm (varies slightly by year/market)
Engine Type 2:
Optional: V6 Turbo (QV/Legerda models - less common in US for these years)
Displacement 2:
3.0 Liters (2959 cc) Turbocharged
Horsepower 2:
Approx. 230-260 hp (varies)
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch Motronic Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Ignition Type:
Electronic Ignition (Distributorless Ignition System - DIS - on later models)
Crash Test Performance:
Safety standards of the era. Later models may have some improvements, but comparable to other luxury sedans of the early to mid-90s. Specific NHTSA/IIHS ratings may vary by market and are not as comprehensive as modern standards.
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on most models.
Traction Control:
Optional traction control system (ASR) available on some higher-trim models.
Airbags:
Driver's side airbag standard. Passenger airbag optional or standard on later models depending on market.
Seat Belts:
Three-point inertia-reel seat belts for all occupants. Pre-tensioners may be present on some models.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 10,000-15,000 km (6,000-9,000 miles) or 12 months, using synthetic oil. Consult manual for specific recommendations.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Crucial: Typically every 60,000-80,000 km (37,000-50,000 miles) or 5 years. This is an interference engine, and belt failure will cause severe damage. Manual provides detailed procedure and tensioning specs.
Coolant Flush:
Every 2-3 years or as per manual recommendations.
Engine Oil:
SAE 10W-40 or 15W-50 Synthetic (API SG/SH or higher). Check manual for exact viscosity based on temperature range.
Coolant:
Ethylene Glycol based coolant with anti-corrosion additives. Typically 50/50 mix with distilled water. Refer to manual for specific Alfa Romeo approved types.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4 or GL-5 SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 gear oil.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron III or equivalent. Check manual for exact specification.
Common Wear Items:
Wear on suspension bushings, driveshaft CV boots, aging electrical connectors, fuel pump, starter motor reliability.
Engine Specific Concerns:
The Busso V6 is robust but requires diligent timing belt maintenance. Intake manifold gaskets can sometimes leak. Engine oil leaks from valve cover gaskets are common with age.
Electrical Concerns:
Corrosion on connectors, particularly ground points. ECU reliability can be a concern with age. Window regulators, power seat motors.
Brand Legacy:
Alfa Romeo has a long history of producing sporting sedans and coupes with an emphasis on driving dynamics and distinctive styling.
Design Origin:
The 164 was the flagship sedan of Alfa Romeo, developed under Fiat ownership on the Type Four platform shared with the Fiat Croma, Lancia Thema, and Saab 9000. Styled by Pininfarina.
Production Years:
1987-1998 (globally). Specific model years covered by this manual are 1994-1997.
Manufacturing Location:
Arese, Italy (Alfa Romeo's historic factory).
