🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Alfa Romeo

Model:

164

Model Years Covered:

1991, 1992, 1993

Vehicle Class:

Executive Car / Full-size Luxury Sedan

Chassis Code:

Type 164

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

Premium executive sedan designed to compete with German luxury brands, emphasizing performance, style, and Italian flair.

Competitors:

BMW 5 Series, Mercedes-Benz E-Class, Audi 100/A6, Volvo S70/V70, Saab 9000.

Design:

Designed by Pininfarina, offering a sleek, aerodynamic, and timeless aesthetic.

Engineering:

Utilized advanced front-wheel-drive architecture and transverse engine mounting, with optional all-wheel-drive (Q4).

Value Proposition:

Provides a sophisticated driving experience, powerful performance, and distinctive Italian design at a competitive price point within the luxury segment.

📋 Manual Details

All Models Engines Trims Transmissions:

Yes

Regions Covered:

Global (Specifications may vary slightly by market)

Estimated Page Count:

Extensive (Typical for comprehensive workshop manuals, likely 1000+ pages)

Type:

Complete Workshop Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Downloadable Digital Format (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Yes (e.g., Valve train, pistons, crankshaft, lubrication, cooling)

Engine Electrical:

Yes (e.g., Ignition system, starting system, charging system, ECU diagnostics)

Fuel System:

Yes (e.g., Fuel injection, fuel pump, injectors, fuel filter, evaporative emissions)

Transmission Manual:

Yes (e.g., Clutch, gearbox, driveshafts, fluid specifications)

Transmission Automatic:

Yes (e.g., Gearbox operation, solenoids, torque converter, fluid specifications, diagnostics)

Brake System:

Yes (e.g., ABS, hydraulic components, disc/pad replacement, fluid bleeding)

Suspension System:

Yes (e.g., Springs, dampers, bushings, alignment specifications)

Steering System:

Yes (e.g., Power steering pump, rack and pinion, tie rods)

Electrical System Chassis:

Yes (e.g., Lighting, wipers, horn, power windows, central locking)

Climate Control:

Yes (e.g., HVAC system, refrigerant, compressor, climate control panel)

Body And Frame:

Yes (e.g., Body panels, doors, hood, trunk, interior trim, structural components)

Diagnostics And Troubleshooting:

Yes (e.g., DTC codes, diagnostic procedures, common fault diagnosis)

Scheduled Maintenance:

Yes (e.g., Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plugs, belt replacement)

Component Replacement:

Yes (e.g., Alternator, starter motor, water pump, fuel pump, brake calipers)

Troubleshooting Guides:

Yes (Step-by-step diagnostic flows for various systems)

Wiring Diagrams:

Yes (Comprehensive electrical schematics for all systems)

Specifications Data:

Yes (Torque values, clearances, fluid capacities, timing settings)

Overhaul Procedures:

Yes (Detailed instructions for engine and transmission rebuilds)

Body Repair:

Yes (Panel alignment, rust repair guidance)

Depth:

Comprehensive (From basic maintenance to advanced diagnostics and complete overhauls)

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Searchability:

Yes (Text-searchable)

Printability:

High (Suitable for printing individual pages or chapters)

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Variant 1:

2.0L (1996cc) 16-valve DOHC Inline-4 (Turbocharged '164 Turbo')

Engine Variant 2:

3.0L (2959cc) 24-valve SOHC V6 ('164 V6', 'Super' variants)

Engine Variant 3:

3.0L (2959cc) 24-valve SOHC V6 (Bosch Motronic 2.1 'QV' and Q4 variants)

Engine 1 Horsepower:

Approx. 175 hp (164 Turbo)

Engine 1 Torque:

Approx. 260 Nm (164 Turbo)

Engine 2 Horsepower:

Approx. 190-200 hp (164 V6, Super)

Engine 2 Torque:

Approx. 250-270 Nm (164 V6, Super)

Engine 3 Horsepower:

Approx. 200-230 hp (QV, Q4)

Engine 3 Torque:

Approx. 280-300 Nm (QV, Q4)

Fuel Injection Type:

Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI) / Bosch Motronic

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Petrol (Octane rating as per vehicle specification)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type V6 Models:

5-speed Manual

Transmission Type V6 Models:

4-speed Automatic (e.g., ZF 4HP22)

All Wheel Drive:

Optional 'Q4' system (Viscous coupling, centre and rear differentials) available on V6 models.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 4650-4770 mm (Varies slightly by model/bumper design)

Width:

Approx. 1760-1780 mm

Height:

Approx. 1410-1430 mm

Wheelbase:

Approx. 2660-2700 mm

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1400-1600 kg (Varies by engine and transmission)

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Results:

Limited official crash test data available for early 1990s, generally considered safe for its era, featuring a robust chassis.

ABS:

Standard on most models, optional on some early variants.

Airbags:

Driver's airbag standard on later models, passenger airbag optional/standard on very late models.

Seatbelts:

Pre-tensioned front seatbelts.

Chassis Design:

Designed with crumple zones and a safety cell.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory fitted Clarion or Grundig radio/cassette player with optional CD changer. Speakers strategically placed for acoustic comfort.

Climate Control Type:

Automatic Climate Control (ACC) available on higher trims, offering a sophisticated comfort experience for its time.

ABS:

Standard ABS system enhances braking safety, providing controlled stops.

Power Features:

Power windows, power mirrors, power seats (optional), and central locking were common features enhancing convenience.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 10,000-15,000 km or annually, depending on driving conditions. Consult manual for specific grade.

Timing Belt Replacement:

Crucial for V6 engines. Typically every 60,000-80,000 km or 5 years. Failure results in catastrophic engine damage.

Engine Oil V6:

API SG/SH, ACEA A2-96, Viscosity SAE 10W-40 or 15W-50 (refer to manual for exact specification and climate suitability).

Transmission Fluid Manual:

API GL-4 or GL-5, Viscosity SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90.

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

ATF Dexron IIE or III (for ZF 4HP22)

Coolant:

Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze with corrosion inhibitors. Typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4.

Common Issues Electronics:

Can suffer from electrical gremlins due to aged wiring and complex systems, particularly climate control and dashboard electronics.

Common Issues Cooling:

Radiator leaks, fan issues, and thermostat problems are common. Proper coolant maintenance is vital.

Common Issues Suspension:

Worn control arm bushings, strut mounts, and ball joints can affect ride quality and handling.

Common Issues Engine:

Timing belt failure on V6 engines is catastrophic. Oil leaks from valve cover gaskets and oil pan seals are also common. Early turbo models could have turbocharger issues.

📚 Vehicle History

Heritage:

Alfa Romeo has a long and storied history in motorsport and performance car manufacturing, known for sporty handling and distinctive styling.

Evolution Summary:

The 164 was a significant model for Alfa Romeo, representing their return to the executive sedan segment with a modern, front-wheel-drive platform and a design penned by Pininfarina. It was the flagship of the Alfa Romeo lineup during its production run.

Production Years:

1987-1998 (First Generation covering 1991-1993 models)

Manufacturing Location:

Arese, Italy (Part of the Fiat Auto Group)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Automotive Press Reviews:

Generally received positive reviews for its styling, handling, and performance, particularly the V6 and Q4 variants. Often praised for its Italian flair contrasting with more utilitarian German rivals.