Class:
Compact executive sports sedan and coupe
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts, professional mechanics, Alfa Romeo owners seeking self-maintenance and repair capability
Key Competitors:
BMW 3 Series (E21, E30), Mercedes-Benz W123 Coupe/Sedan, Lancia Beta Coupe/HPE, Opel Rekord/Commodore
Design Philosophy:
Sporty driving dynamics, Italian design, sophisticated engineering (transaxle layout, De Dion rear axle)
Unique Selling Points:
Distinctive styling, engaging handling, Alfa Romeo's characteristic engine note
Markets Covered:
Global (Europe, North America, others)
Model Coverage:
All Alfetta models (Berlina, GT, GTV) across all production years and engine variants
Estimated Page Count:
Extensive (professionals use implies comprehensive documentation, likely 500+ pages)
Type:
Service and Repair Workshop Manual
Language:
English (inferred from typical professional workshop manuals for global markets)
Engine And Powertrain:
Engine rebuild, tuning, troubleshooting, cooling, fuel delivery, exhaust, ignition
Transmission And Drivetrain:
Clutch, gearbox (transaxle), driveshafts, differential
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, disc brake assemblies (front and rear), parking brake
Electrical System:
Ignition, starting, charging, lighting, instrumentation, ancillary electrics, wiring diagrams
Suspension And Steering:
Front and rear suspension (De Dion rear axle), steering rack, power steering
Body And Chassis:
Frame construction, body panels, doors, trim, glass
Wheels And Tires:
Wheel specifications, tire fitment, balancing
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, tune-ups
Repair And Rebuild:
Engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, brake caliper replacement, suspension component renewal
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon faults across all systems
Diagnostics:
Fault finding, symptom analysis, component testing
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including advanced electrical diagnostics.
Engine Type:
Inline-4 Cylinder, DOHC (Double Overhead Camshaft)
Displacement Options:
1.6L, 1.8L, 2.0L, 2.5L V6 (GTV6)
Horsepower Range:
Approx. 108 hp (1.6L) to 158 hp (2.0L) for inline-4; 158 hp (2.5L V6)
Torque Range:
Varies by engine, but tuned for spirited driving.
Fuel Delivery:
Carbureted (Solex, Weber) for early models; Bosch L-Jetronic fuel injection for later models and GTV6.
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline
Ignition System:
Distributor-based ignition, later models may feature electronic ignition.
Type:
5-speed manual transaxle (gearbox and differential integrated at rear)
Automatic Transmission:
Optional 3-speed automatic available on some models
Drivetrain Layout:
Rear-wheel drive (RWD) with transaxle layout for improved weight distribution
Gearbox Oil Type:
GL-4 Gear Oil (e.g., SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2510 mm (98.8 in)
Length:
Approx. 4200-4450 mm (165.4-175.2 in) depending on body style
Width:
Approx. 1670-1700 mm (65.7-66.9 in)
Height:
Approx. 1360-1390 mm (53.5-54.7 in)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1150-1300 kg (2535-2866 lbs) depending on model and equipment
Gross Vehicle Weight:
Not specified, but typical for class.
Crash Test Results:
No official standardized crash test ratings from modern agencies available for this era.
Brakes:
Four-wheel disc brakes (standard on most models), often with ventilated front discs.
Steering:
Recirculating ball steering, power steering available on most models.
Seatbelts:
Standard front seatbelts, rear seatbelts may vary by market and option.
Body Construction:
Monocoque chassis with integrated safety cage elements.
Radio Cassette:
Factory-optional or dealer-fitted radio and cassette players were common.
Gauges And Instruments:
Comprehensive dashboard with tachometer, speedometer, oil pressure, water temperature, and fuel gauges.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was an optional feature on later models, particularly the GTV6.
Connectivity Features:
None in the modern sense; primarily mechanical and basic electrical systems.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000-7,500 km (3,000-4,500 miles) or 6-12 months, depending on usage.
Major Service Interval:
Refer to manual for timing belt replacement (if applicable to specific engine variant), valve adjustments, and other major services.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 20W-50 or 10W-40 API SG/SF (check manual for exact specification based on engine and climate)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze mixture (50/50 with distilled water)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 hydraulic fluid
Power Steering Fluid:
ATF (Automatic Transmission Fluid) or specific power steering fluid as per manual.
Rust Corrosion:
Common on sills, wheel arches, and floor pans due to age and Italian car construction of the era.
Electrical Gremlins:
Age-related issues with wiring insulation, connectors, and grounding points.
Carburetor Tuning:
Requires regular adjustment and cleaning for optimal performance if equipped with carburetors.
De Dion Axle Maintenance:
Requires specific attention to universal joints and suspension linkages.
Engine Management:
Fuel injection systems (L-Jetronic) can be sensitive to vacuum leaks and sensor faults.
Manufacturer:
Alfa Romeo S.p.A., Italy
Heritage Focus:
Renowned for sporty driving character and distinctive Italian design.
Introduction:
Introduced in 1972, replacing the Giulia successor.
Key Developments:
Introduction of Alfetta GT coupe (1974), GTV performance variant, and the V6-powered GTV6 (1980s).
Manufacturing Locations:
Italy (primarily Pomigliano d'Arco)
Production End:
1987, succeeded by the Alfa Romeo 75 (Milano).
