Segment:
Executive Sedan, offering a blend of performance, luxury, and Italian design.
Key Competitors:
BMW 5 Series, Mercedes-Benz E-Class, Audi 100/A6, Saab 9000.
Design Philosophy:
Emphasized Pininfarina styling, front-wheel drive dynamics, and a powerful V6 engine.
Value Proposition:
Provides an engaging driving experience and distinctive Italian flair for enthusiasts.
Engine Mechanical:
Detailed overhaul, diagnostics, timing belt replacement, component testing
Engine Management:
ECU diagnostics, sensor testing, fuel injection, ignition system
Transmission Manual:
Overhaul, clutch, gear selection, diagnostics
Transmission Automatic:
Overhaul, fluid, torque converter, electronic control diagnostics
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, ABS diagnostics (if equipped), caliper and rotor service, bleeding procedures
Suspension And Steering:
Struts, shocks, bushings, power steering system, wheel alignment specifications
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, component testing, fuses, relays, lighting, power windows, central locking
Climate Control:
HVAC system operation, refrigerant servicing, component diagnosis
Body And Trim:
Panel removal, door mechanisms, interior trim, glass replacement
Routine Maintenance:
Oil change, filter replacement, spark plug service, fluid checks
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts, common fault identification
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step disassembly and reassembly of all major components
Diagnostic Procedures:
Testing of electrical components, fuel system pressures, ignition timing
Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds
Detail Level:
Factory level of detail with extensive diagrams and illustrations
Searchable:
Likely text-searchable PDF for efficient information retrieval
Printability:
All pages printable, allowing for convenient workshop use
Original Binding:
Factory manuals are typically bound with robust covers for durability.
Original Paper:
High-quality, durable paper stock designed for workshop environments.
Engine Type:
V6, naturally aspirated
Displacement:
3.0 Liters (2959 cc)
Engine Code:
Arese V6 (Busso V6 variant)
Horsepower:
Approximately 190-200 hp (varies slightly by market and specific tune)
Torque:
Approximately 200-210 lb-ft
Induction:
Bosch Motronic electronic fuel injection
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (Octane rating specified in manual)
Timing Belt Replacement Interval:
Critical maintenance item, typically every 50,000-70,000 miles or 5-7 years. Manual will specify exact interval and procedure.
Transmission Type:
5-speed Manual (initially, later models primarily automatic)
Transmission Type:
4-speed Automatic (e.g., ZF 4HP-22)
Automatic Features:
Sport/Normal modes
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 (Manual will confirm exact spec and capacity).
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron II or III (ZF specified fluid often recommended - Manual will confirm).
Length:
Approximately 4750 mm (187 in)
Width:
Approximately 1760 mm (69.3 in)
Height:
Approximately 1420 mm (55.9 in)
Curb Weight:
Approximately 1500-1600 kg (3300-3500 lbs, depending on configuration)
Crash Test Information:
Limited official North American crash test data for this era, but generally considered a robust chassis.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (Bosch ABS II or III) available on most models.
Airbags:
Driver-side airbag standard on later models, passenger airbag optional or standard on some trims.
Seatbelts:
Front and rear seatbelts, potentially with pretensioners.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions. Manual will specify.
Major Service Intervals:
Includes timing belt, accessory belts, spark plugs, coolant flush, brake fluid flush (refer to manual for detailed schedule).
Engine Oil Specification:
API SG/SH or ACEA A2/A3, SAE 10W-40 or 10W-30 (Manual will confirm exact viscosity and API rating).
Coolant Specification:
Ethylene glycol based antifreeze/coolant. Manual will specify type and mixture ratio (e.g., 50/50).
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (Manual will specify, DOT 4 is generally preferred).
Engine Mounts:
Can degrade over time, leading to increased vibration.
Electrical Connectors:
Corrosion and wear on connectors, particularly in engine bay and under dash, can cause intermittent faults.
Suspension Bushings:
Wear and tear on control arm bushings and subframe mounts is common, affecting ride and handling.
Climate Control Actuators:
Plastic vacuum actuators for HVAC can become brittle and fail.
Timing Belt Failure:
Crucial to follow replacement intervals; failure results in catastrophic engine damage (interference engine).
Alfa Romeo Legacy:
Renowned for motorsport success and sporting sedan production.
Design Origin:
Designed by Pininfarina, representing a significant departure in styling and platform from previous Alfa Romeo sedans.
Platform Sharing:
Based on the Type Four (Tipo 4) platform, shared with Fiat Croma, Lancia Thema, and Saab 9000.
Production Period:
1987-1997 (covering multiple facelifts)
Manufacture Location:
Italy
Design Awards:
While not specific awards listed for the 1991-1993 model, the Pininfarina design was widely praised for its elegance and timelessness.
Performance Reviews:
Consistently reviewed positively for its handling, comfortable ride, and powerful engine, particularly the V6.
