Class:
Mid-engine, V12, Rear-wheel drive Sports Car
Era:
Iconic 1980s and 1990s supercar
Competitors:
Porsche 911, Lamborghini Countach, Lotus Esprit, Aston Martin V8 Vantage
Design:
Pininfarina design, signature side strakes, distinctive quad exhaust pipes
Performance Focus:
Engineered for high-speed performance and handling
Manual Utility:
Essential resource for maintaining and repairing a complex, high-performance vehicle
Engine Mechanical:
Complete overhaul, assembly, disassembly, timing, valve adjustments, cylinder head procedures, crankshaft and connecting rod procedures, piston procedures
Engine Management And Fuel:
Fuel injection system (Bosch K-Jetronic), ignition system, sensors, actuators, emissions control systems, fuel pump and lines, injectors, fuel pressure regulator
Transmission:
Manual gearbox (5-speed), clutch system, gearbox overhaul, gear shift mechanism, differential
Drivetrain:
Rear-wheel drive system, driveshafts, CV joints, axle shafts
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, brake discs, brake calipers, brake pads, ABS system (where applicable), brake fluid specifications, bleeding procedures
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension, shock absorbers, springs, anti-roll bars, bushings, alignment specifications
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, steering column, tie rods
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, starter motor, alternator, battery, fuses, relays, lighting system, instrumentation, dashboard controls
Body And Chassis:
Body panel removal and installation, chassis lubrication, door mechanisms, window regulators, interior trim, exterior trim
Heating Ventilation And Air Conditioning HVAC:
HVAC system components, refrigerant, operation, troubleshooting
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, brake inspections, fluid checks and changes
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues, fault code interpretation, electrical troubleshooting charts
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for all major vehicle systems, including engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, and bodywork repairs
Diagnostics:
Detailed diagnostic steps for identifying and resolving mechanical and electrical faults
Disassembly And Reassembly:
Comprehensive instructions with exploded views for component removal and installation
Depth:
Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds)
Visuals:
Hundreds of detailed photos and diagrams, exploded views for precise assembly
Target Audience:
Professional Mechanics, Technicians, and experienced DIY enthusiasts
Engine Type:
Naturally aspirated, flat-12 (V12)
Displacement:
4.9 Liters (4943 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
82 mm x 78 mm (approximate)
Compression Ratio:
9.2:1 (approximate)
Horsepower Peak:
300 hp (221 kW) at 5750 rpm (for early models), later models up to 320 hp (235 kW)
Torque Peak:
330 lb-ft (448 Nm) at 4500 rpm (for early models), later models up to 361 lb-ft (490 Nm)
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch K-Jetronic mechanical fuel injection
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (premium octane)
Ignition Type:
Electronic ignition
Oil Type:
SAE 20W-50 or 10W-50 recommended (check manual for exact specifications)
Audio System:
Typically features an aftermarket or period-correct analog radio/cassette player. Manual covers its basic operation and wiring.
Instrumentation:
Analog gauges for speed, RPM, oil pressure, water temperature, fuel level, and warning lights
ABS Availability:
Optional on some models, standard on later iterations (e.g., 512 TR)
Connectivity Features:
No integrated modern connectivity features (Bluetooth, navigation, etc.)
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000-7,500 miles or annually (refer to manual for precise intervals)
Major Service:
Timing belt replacement is critical and typically recommended every 2-3 years or 15,000-30,000 miles (consult manual for specific intervals and part numbers)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 11-12 liters (check manual)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based coolant, mixed 50/50 with distilled water
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 high-temperature brake fluid
Common Problems:
Fuel injection system issues (K-Jetronic), aging rubber components (hoses, seals), electrical gremlins, sticky shifter gates, coolant leaks, clutch wear
Timing Belt Maintenance:
Crucial and non-negotiable maintenance item for this engine
