Positioning:
The Alfa Romeo 33 'Nuova' represented an evolution of the popular 33 model, continuing Alfa Romeo's tradition of producing sporty, stylish, and driver-focused compact cars. It competed in a segment with rivals like the Volkswagen Golf, Ford Escort, and Fiat Ritmo.
Strengths:
Distinctive Italian styling, engaging driving dynamics, boxer engines, available All-Wheel Drive (AWD) on certain models, offering a unique proposition in its class.
Engine Options:
Known for its signature Alfa Romeo boxer engines, offering a lower center of gravity and characteristic sound. Available in 1.3L, 1.5L, and 1.7L displacements, including twin-cam variants for performance models.
Drivetrain Options:
Primarily Front-Wheel Drive (FWD), with notable availability of Permanent All-Wheel Drive (AWD) on models like the 33 16v Permanent 4, enhancing traction and all-weather capability.
Target Audience:
Designed for both professional mechanics working in equipped workshops and knowledgeable car owners who wish to undertake their own maintenance and repairs. It provides detailed information and step-by-step guidance.
Primary Coverage:
Service, Repair, Maintenance, Troubleshooting, Installation
Estimated Pages:
Varies based on specific sections included, but typically comprehensive for a factory service manual (estimated 500+ pages for complete set of documents)
Type:
Factory Service Manual (FSM) / Workshop Manual / Repair Manual
Powertrain:
Engine (carbureted and fuel-injected variants), Transmission (manual and potentially optional automatic), Clutch, Drivetrain (FWD and AWD configurations)
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), Steering, Brakes (hydraulic system, components), Wheels, Tires
Electrical:
Complete electrical system, wiring diagrams, lighting, ignition, starting, charging, instrumentation, accessories, fuses, relays, ECUs
Body And Trim:
Body panels, doors, glass, interior trim, seats, exterior trim, seals
HVAC:
Air Conditioning (installation and service as specified)
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement
Disassembly Reassembly:
Step-by-step procedures for major component removal and installation (engine, transmission, suspension, brakes, etc.)
Inspection:
Component inspection for wear, damage, and proper function
Repair:
Detailed repair procedures for various systems and components
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common and complex issues
Installation:
Specific installation procedures, such as for the 4x4 switch and Air Conditioning system
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering basic maintenance to complex overhauls and diagnostics, suitable for professional mechanics and advanced DIY enthusiasts
Engine Type:
Flat-four (Boxer) engine
Horsepower Range:
Approximately 75 hp to 137 hp depending on engine size and tuning (e.g., 1.3L, 1.5L, 1.7L QV/16V variants)
Torque Range:
Approximately 100 Nm to 155 Nm depending on engine variant
Fuel Delivery:
Carburetor (e.g., Weber, Solex) for earlier models and some variants, Fuel Injection (Bosch L-Jetronic, Motronic) for later or performance models
Cooling Type:
Water-cooled
Ignition Type:
Distributor-based ignition, electronic ignition for later models
Type:
5-speed Manual Transmission
Type:
Automatic Transmission (less common, availability varied by market and engine)
AWD Integration:
Specific models feature a transfer case and driveshafts for permanent 4WD operation
Gearbox Oil Type:
Refer to manual for specific API GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil, e.g., SAE 75W-90 or SAE 80W-90
Crash Test Results:
Modern crash test data is limited for this era of vehicle; refer to period-specific testing if available.
Braking System:
Front ventilated discs, rear drums standard; some performance models may have four-wheel discs.
Seatbelts:
Standard three-point seatbelts, potentially lap belts in rear on some models.
Body Structure:
Designed with crumple zones and reinforced passenger cell for the era.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000 - 7,500 km (3,000 - 5,000 miles) or annually, depending on usage. Refer to manual for specific intervals.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Critical for Boxer engines; typically every 40,000 - 60,000 km (25,000 - 37,000 miles) or as specified in the manual. Failure can cause severe engine damage.
Engine Oil Type:
Refer to manual for specific viscosity grade (e.g., SAE 10W-40, SAE 15W-40) and API service classification (e.g., SF, SG).
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze/coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Refer to manual for exact specifications.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid.
Rust Susceptibility:
Like many cars of this era, susceptible to rust, particularly in wheel arches, sills, and around windows. Good maintenance and rust prevention are key.
Carburetor Issues:
Carbureted models may require periodic adjustment and tuning. Fuel delivery and idle stability can be affected by wear or debris.
Electrical Gremlins:
Older wiring can degrade, leading to intermittent electrical faults. The detailed wiring diagrams in this manual are invaluable.
Suspension Wear:
Bushings and ball joints can wear over time, affecting handling and ride quality. The manual details inspection and replacement procedures.
Heritage:
Alfa Romeo, founded in 1910, has a rich history in motorsport and road car production, known for its passionate engineering and distinctive 'Alfisti' following.
Predecessor:
Alfa Romeo 33 (original generation, launched 1983)
Generation:
'Nuova' generation, launched in 1990, featuring updated styling and improved aerodynamics. Production continued until 1994.
Production Period:
1990-1994 (Nuova generation)
Manufacturing Location:
Italy
