🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Fiat

Model:

Bravo

Year:

1996

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The Fiat Bravo (Type 182) was a compact family car produced by the Italian manufacturer Fiat. Launched in 1995, it succeeded the Fiat Tipo and competed in a segment with strong rivals like the Volkswagen Golf, Ford Focus, and Opel Astra. This particular 1996 model represents an early iteration of this generation.

Competitive Analysis:

The Bravo was designed to offer a balance of Italian styling, practicality, and performance, often perceived as a more stylish alternative to some of its German and French competitors. Its introduction aimed to revitalize Fiat's presence in the crucial European C-segment.

Key Features:

The 1996 Fiat Bravo was known for its distinctive 'Pininfarina' styling cues (though not exclusively designed by Pininfarina for this generation), a range of efficient and spirited FIRE and Lampredi engines, and a focus on driver comfort and handling.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

Full vehicle service and repair

Page Count:

Not specified, typical for comprehensive factory service manuals

Manual Type:

Repair Service Manual / Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Engine, Transmission, Drivetrain, Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Electrical System, Climate Control, Fuel System, Exhaust System, Body, Interior

Procedures Included:

Step-by-step repair procedures, maintenance, disassembly, assembly, cleaning, reinstallation, troubleshooting, diagnostic procedures, technical specifications

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive (suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY mechanics)

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Print Quality:

Full Printable

Binding Type:

Digital Download (No physical binding)

Paper Type:

Not Applicable (Digital File)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Primary Engine:

Likely the 1.4L (1372 cc) Fire engine or the 1.6L (1581 cc) Lampredi engine. Other engine options from the era included 1.8L and 2.0L variants, as well as diesel options.

Performance:

Engine power output varied by engine size, typically ranging from 75 hp for the 1.4L to over 100 hp for the 1.6L and higher. Torque figures would also vary accordingly.

Fuel System:

Multi-point fuel injection (MPI) for gasoline engines.

🔧 Transmission

Standard:

5-speed manual transmission.

Optional:

Some models may have offered an optional automatic transmission (e.g., a 4-speed automatic).

Features:

Front-wheel drive, typically with a standard clutch system.

📐 Dimensions

Exterior:

Compact hatchback, typically around 4.1-4.2 meters in length, 1.7 meters in width, and 1.4 meters in height.

Interior:

Designed to seat five occupants, with a focus on driver ergonomics and passenger comfort for its class.

Cargo:

Rear seats were typically split-folding to expand cargo capacity from the boot.

Weights:

Curb weight would vary by engine and equipment, typically in the range of 1100-1250 kg.

🛡️ Safety Features

Ratings:

Euro NCAP ratings for this era were not as standardized or as high as modern vehicles. Early models would have basic safety features.

Active Features:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was optional or standard on higher trims. Power-assisted steering.

Passive Features:

Front airbags for driver and passenger. Seatbelt pretensioners. Crumple zones in the chassis design.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment:

Basic in-car entertainment systems of the time, typically featuring an AM/FM radio and cassette player. CD players were often optional extras or introduced in later model years.

Driver Assistance:

Limited driver assistance features by modern standards. Primarily focused on basic safety systems like ABS and airbags.

Connectivity:

No integrated connectivity features such as Bluetooth or USB ports. Communication and media were analog.

🔧 Maintenance

Service Intervals:

Typical intervals include oil and filter changes every 10,000-15,000 km (or annually), spark plug replacement at 20,000-30,000 km, and timing belt replacement at 60,000-80,000 km (critical for engine longevity).

Fluid Specifications:

Engine Oil: API SG/SH, SAE 10W-40 or 15W-40 (check manual for specific viscosity and ACEA ratings). Coolant: Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze (e.g., Paraflu UP). Brake Fluid: DOT 3 or DOT 4.

Known Issues:

Common issues for this era of Fiat can include electrical gremlins, potential corrosion on the bodywork, wear in suspension components, and the need for timely timing belt replacement to prevent catastrophic engine failure. Exhaust system corrosion is also a possibility.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Fiat has a long history of producing popular and innovative cars, particularly in Europe, with a reputation for compact, stylish, and affordable vehicles.

Model Evolution:

The Bravo and its coupe sibling, the Brava (5-door), were part of Fiat's strategy to re-establish itself in the competitive European market after a period of challenges. They were designed to be modern, stylish, and offer good value.

Production:

The Fiat Bravo (Type 182) was produced from 1995 to 2001. It was built in Fiat's Cassino plant in Italy.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

The Fiat Bravo/Brava range received positive reviews upon launch for its styling and driving dynamics, and was awarded 'European Car of the Year' runner-up in 1996. It also won various national 'Car of the Year' awards in different European countries.