Positioning:
Practical and affordable compact car with a sporting heritage, appealing to enthusiasts and those seeking a reliable, distinctive Italian vehicle.
Competitors:
Volkswagen Golf, Ford Escort, Opel Kadett, Fiat Ritmo
Design Philosophy:
Emphasis on practicality, Italian styling, and responsive driving dynamics. Known for its boxer engines and spacious interior.
Audience:
Professional technicians, experienced DIY mechanics, Alfa Romeo enthusiasts, owners seeking to maintain and repair their vehicle.
Engine:
Detailed diagnostics, overhaul, tuning, cooling system, lubrication system, fuel system (carburetor/injection depending on variant)
Transmission:
Manual transmission overhaul, clutch service, driveshafts
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, bushings
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, caliper overhaul, disc/drum service, parking brake
Steering:
Steering rack, column, and linkage service
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, battery, alternator, starter, ignition system, lighting, gauges, fuses, relays
Body And Chassis:
Body panel removal/installation, interior trim, bumpers, glass, chassis components
Heating And Ventilation:
HVAC system components and service
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, lubrication
Repair:
Step-by-step repair procedures for all major components and systems
Disassembly And Assembly:
Detailed instructions for taking apart and putting back together vehicle components
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts and procedures for identifying and resolving common problems
Depth:
Comprehensive: Suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts
Engine Type:
Boxer (Flat-four)
Displacement:
Primarily 1.3L (1351 cc) and 1.5L (1490 cc) for 1983 models. Some markets may have had 1.2L or 1.7L variants. Specific engine codes would be detailed in the manual (e.g., AR30430 for 1.3, AR30512 for 1.5).
Horsepower 1.3L:
Approx. 75-80 hp (DIN) at 6000 rpm
Torque 1.3L:
Approx. 105 Nm (77 lb-ft) at 3500 rpm
Horsepower 1.5L:
Approx. 85-95 hp (DIN) at 6000 rpm
Torque 1.5L:
Approx. 120-125 Nm (88-92 lb-ft) at 3500 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Carbureted (Weber or Solex twin-choke carburetors typically) for most 1983 models. Fuel injection (Bosch L-Jetronic) became more common in later models or specific engine variants.
Block Material:
Aluminum alloy
Cylinder Head Material:
Aluminum alloy
Body Styles:
3-door hatchback, 5-door hatchback
Length:
Approx. 3900-4000 mm (153.5-157.5 in) depending on body style
Width:
Approx. 1600-1620 mm (63.0-63.8 in)
Height:
Approx. 1370-1400 mm (53.9-55.1 in)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 950-1050 kg (2094-2315 lbs) depending on configuration
Crash Safety Era:
Era-appropriate safety standards, lacking modern electronic aids.
Braking System:
Front: Discs, Rear: Drums. Power assisted.
Steering:
Rack and pinion, unassisted
Seatbelts:
Standard front seatbelts, optional rear seatbelts
Body Structure:
Reinforced passenger cell, crumple zones (typical for the era)
Audio System:
Factory-fitted AM/FM radio with cassette player, optional. Speaker configurations vary by trim.
Features Era:
Limited to basic mechanical systems. No electronic driver aids like ABS, traction control, or airbags were standard or widely available for the 1983 model year.
Features:
N/A for the 1983 model year.
Oil Change:
Typically every 5,000-7,500 km (3,000-4,500 miles) or 6-12 months, whichever comes first. Manual will specify.
Timing Belt:
Crucial component for boxer engines. Interval typically around 60,000-80,000 km (37,000-50,000 miles). Manual is essential for correct procedure and torque settings.
Engine Oil:
API SG or equivalent, SAE 10W-40 or 15W-40 recommended. Manual will provide precise specification and capacity.
Coolant:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Manual will specify type and capacity.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (verify in manual). Fluid should be flushed and replaced periodically.
Transmission Fluid:
Manual: GL-4 gear oil, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90. Capacity and specific grade in manual.
Rust Corrosion:
Common on older Italian cars, particularly sills, wheel arches, and floor pans. Proper underbody protection and regular inspection are vital.
Carburetor Tuning:
Weber/Solex carburetors can require periodic adjustment and cleaning for optimal performance and fuel economy. Manual provides detailed tuning procedures.
Electrical Gremlins:
As with many cars of this era, aging wiring and connections can lead to intermittent electrical faults. Comprehensive wiring diagrams in the manual are essential.
