Market Segment:
Compact family car, notable for its sporty handling and distinctive styling.
Key Competitors:
Volkswagen Golf, Ford Escort, Fiat 128, Renault 14.
Unique Selling Points:
Front-wheel drive layout, boxer engine, advanced (for its time) suspension, and Italian design flair.
Manufacturer Legacy:
Alfa Romeo's heritage in motorsport and performance-oriented road cars.
Engine Parts:
Detailed illustrations and part numbers for engine components including pistons, crankshafts, camshafts, valves, cooling system, lubrication system, and fuel delivery.
Transmission Parts:
Parts breakdown for manual and transaxle components, clutch assembly, gears, shafts, and differential.
Suspension And Steering Parts:
Covers front and rear suspension components, including springs, shock absorbers, control arms, bushings, and steering rack/box parts.
Brake System Parts:
Illustrations for disc brake calipers, pads, rotors, master cylinder, brake lines, and associated hardware.
Electrical System Parts:
Diagrams and part numbers for wiring harnesses, lighting, ignition system components, starter motor, alternator, and dashboard instruments.
Fuel System Parts:
Components for fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel lines, and carburetor assemblies (where applicable).
Cooling System Parts:
Radiator, water pump, thermostat, hoses, and fan assembly parts.
Exhaust System Parts:
Exhaust manifolds, pipes, mufflers, and hangers.
Body And Chassis Parts:
Body panels, doors, bumpers, trim pieces, glass, and structural components.
Interior Trim Parts:
Dashboard components, seats, door panels, carpets, and upholstery parts.
Part Identification:
Visual identification of all replaceable parts through detailed exploded diagrams.
Part Number Reference:
Cross-referenced part numbers for ordering and replacement.
Assembly Disassembly Overview:
Provides context for part placement and relationships within assemblies, aiding in disassembly and reassembly reference.
Depth Of Coverage:
Highly detailed, covering virtually all OEM replaceable parts for the Alfasud model range.
Diagrams Quality:
High-quality exploded view diagrams essential for visual identification and correct assembly.
Engine Configuration:
Horizontally opposed (boxer) four-cylinder engines.
Engine Displacement Range:
1.2L (1186cc), 1.3L (1350cc), 1.4L (1357cc), 1.5L (1490cc), 1.7L (1712cc), 1.7L (1710cc) Boxer engines.
Horsepower Range:
Approximately 62 hp to 105 hp depending on engine variant and tuning.
Torque Range:
Approximately 88 Nm to 133 Nm depending on engine variant.
Fuel Delivery Type:
Carburetted (twin-choke downdraft) for most variants, some later models or performance versions may have had Weber/Dell'Orto carburetors or fuel injection (rare).
Engine Code Designations:
Various codes such as AR105.000, AR105.12, AR105.08, etc., specific to displacement and tuning.
Transmission Type Standard:
4-speed or 5-speed manual transaxle.
Transmission Type Optional:
3-speed automatic (less common).
Drive Layout:
Front-wheel drive with engine and transaxle mounted transversely.
Clutch Type:
Dry single plate.
Body Styles:
3-door hatchback, 5-door hatchback, 4-door sedan, 5-door station wagon (Sud-Giardinetta).
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2450 mm (96.5 in)
Overall Length:
Approx. 3900-4150 mm (153.5-163.4 in) depending on body style
Curb Weight Range:
Approx. 900 kg to 1050 kg (1984 lbs to 2315 lbs)
Audio System:
Basic AM/FM radio, often with a single speaker or optional stereo system. Cassette players became available in later years.
Instrumentation:
Classic Alfa Romeo dashboard with tachometer, speedometer, fuel gauge, temperature gauge, and warning lights.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was not a standard feature and was very rare, if ever offered, during the Alfasud's production run.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000-7,500 km (3,000-4,500 miles) or 6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used.
Tune Up Interval:
Recommended at around 15,000-20,000 km (9,000-12,000 miles) for spark plugs, ignition timing, and carburetor adjustment.
Engine Oil Type:
API SF/CC or SE/CC, SAE 20W-50 or 10W-40 recommended. Consult specific engine variant recommendations.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol based antifreeze mixed with distilled water (50/50 ratio).
Transmission Fluid Type:
GL-4 gear oil, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 recommended.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid.
Rust And Corrosion:
Significant susceptibility to rust, especially in wheel arches, sills, and floor pans due to manufacturing processes of the era and underbody coatings. This is a critical area for inspection and restoration.
Engine Temperature Management:
Boxer engine layout can lead to cooling system challenges if not properly maintained; potential for head gasket leaks in higher mileage examples.
Electrical Gremlins:
Older Alfa Romeo electrical systems can be prone to issues with wiring degradation, Lucas components (if fitted), and connector corrosion.
Carburetor Maintenance:
Carburetors require regular adjustment and maintenance for optimal performance and fuel economy.
Alfa Romeo Legacy:
Renowned for sporty cars with distinctive handling and engine notes. The Alfasud represented a shift towards mass-market appeal and front-wheel drive.
Model Generations:
Launched in 1971. Series 1 (1971-1977), Series 2 (1977-1980), Series 3 (1980-1983). Numerous mechanical and cosmetic updates throughout its production life.
Production Years:
1971-1989 (including variants built under license).
Manufacturing Location:
Pomigliano d'Arco factory, Naples, Italy.
Sales Figures:
Over 1.2 million units produced, making it one of Alfa Romeo's best-selling models.
Notable Variants:
Alfasud Sprint (coupe), Alfasud Ti (Tourismo Internazionale), Alfasud Quadrifoglio Verde (QV).
