🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Fiat

Model:

124 Spider

Year:

1983

Chassis Code:

132 AS

Market Segment:

Sports Car / Convertible

👋 Introduction

Market Positioning:

The Fiat 124 Spider was a popular and stylish Italian roadster that competed with vehicles like the Triumph Spitfire, MG MGB, and Datsun 240Z in its era, known for its elegant Pininfarina styling and spirited driving dynamics.

Competitive Set:

Direct competitors included British sports cars like the MG MGB and Triumph TR6, as well as Japanese offerings such as the Datsun 240Z/260Z and Toyota Celica GT Liftback. The 124 Spider offered a distinct Italian flair and often a more sophisticated chassis.

Vehicle Highlights:

Rear-wheel drive, lightweight construction, independent suspension on all four wheels (a notable advantage over some contemporaries), powerful DOHC engines, and iconic Pininfarina styling. The 1983 model represents a later iteration of the classic design.

📋 Manual Details

Manual Type:

Factory Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

Printable:

Yes

Compatibility:

Windows and Mac

Software Requirements:

Adobe PDF Reader

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Engine (00-50, 51-100, 101-170 sections), Body, Brakes, Clutch, Drive Shaft, Electrical System, Rear Axle, Steering System, Suspension System, Transmission

Accessories:

Coverage for factory-installed or optional accessories.

Body:

Includes body panel repair, rust prevention, interior trim, convertible top mechanism, and adjustment procedures.

Brakes:

Detailed information on hydraulic system, front disc and rear drum brake overhaul, adjustments, and fluid replacement.

Clutch:

Hydraulic clutch system service, including master and slave cylinder repair, adjustments, and bleeding.

Drive Shaft:

U-joint inspection and replacement, driveshaft balancing.

Electrical:

Comprehensive wiring diagrams, troubleshooting for lighting, ignition, starting system, charging system, gauges, and accessories.

Engine 00-50:

General engine information, specifications, maintenance, and early troubleshooting.

Engine 51-100:

Detailed procedures for engine mechanical components within this range (e.g., cylinder head, valves).

Engine 101-170:

Detailed procedures for engine mechanical components within this range (e.g., crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods).

General Info And Maintenance:

Essential specifications, lubrication, maintenance schedule, torque values, and general procedures.

Rear Axle:

Differential service, lubrication, and axle bearing maintenance.

Steering:

Steering gear box overhaul, tie rod ends, steering column, and alignment procedures.

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, control arms, ball joints, bushings, and wheel alignment.

Transmission:

Manual transmission overhaul, clutch replacement, and linkage adjustments.

Procedures Included:

Maintenance Schedule, General Information, Repair Procedures for all covered systems, Timing Belt Replacement (dedicated helper section)

Timing Belt Replacement Helper:

Specific, step-by-step guide dedicated to the critical timing belt replacement process.

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive diagnostics, repair, maintenance, and overhaul procedures for factory-level servicing.

Engine Rebuild Scope:

Covers complete engine disassembly, inspection, machining recommendations, and reassembly for a full rebuild.

Fuel Injection Diagnostics:

Detailed troubleshooting for the Bosch L-Jetronic system, including sensor testing and component diagnostics.

Scope Of Coverage:

Comprehensive, covering all major mechanical, electrical, and body systems for the specified model year and engine variants.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format Details:

Digital PDF download, ensuring easy access and storage.

Print Quality Implication:

Printable pages allow for physical copy creation for workshop use, with clear text and diagrams.

Binding Type Implication:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type Implication:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Inline 4-Cylinder, DOHC (Double Overhead Camshaft)

Engine Displacement:

1995 cc (2.0 Liters)

Engine Code:

132 AC.000 (US Spec)

Horsepower:

Approx. 102 hp @ 5500 rpm (US Spec)

Torque:

Approx. 118 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm (US Spec)

Fuel Delivery:

Bosch L-Jetronic Fuel Injection (US Spec for 1983)

Ignition System:

Electronic Ignition System

Cooling Type:

Water-Cooled

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

5-speed Manual Transaxle

Automatic Transmission Availability:

Optional 3-speed Automatic Transmission was available in some markets, though less common on US models by 1983.

Gear Ratios:

Specific gear ratios are detailed within the manual for the 5-speed unit.

Transmission Fluid Type:

GL-4 Hypoid Gear Oil (e.g., SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 3990 mm (157.1 in)

Width:

Approx. 1610 mm (63.4 in)

Height:

Approx. 1220 mm (48.0 in)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 2240 mm (88.2 in)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1060 kg (2337 lbs)

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Data Availability:

Limited official crash test data for this era and model; focus on passive safety features of the time.

Braking System:

Front Disc Brakes, Rear Drum Brakes. Ventilated front discs common.

Seatbelts:

Standard lap and shoulder belts.

Roll Over Protection:

Reinforced windshield frame and optional, low-profile hoop behind the seats.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Typically a period-appropriate AM/FM radio, often with an 8-track player or cassette deck as an optional upgrade.

ABS Availability:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was not a standard or common feature for this model year.

Connectivity Features:

No modern connectivity features like Bluetooth or USB. Focus on essential vehicle operation.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 3,000-5,000 miles or 6 months, depending on driving conditions. Refer to manual for precise intervals.

Timing Belt Replacement Interval:

Critical: Recommended replacement every 30,000-50,000 miles or 3-4 years due to interference engine design. The manual provides detailed instructions.

Engine Oil Type:

API SF or SG rated, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 recommended. Check manual for specific ambient temperature ranges.

Coolant Type:

Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze mixed with distilled water (50/50 ratio).

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4.

Common Wear Items:

Rust in common areas (fender arches, rocker panels, floor pans), aging rubber hoses and seals, carburetor issues (if applicable to specific sub-models), clutch slave cylinder leaks, and potential timing belt failure if not replaced on schedule.

Diagnostic Procedures:

The manual covers systematic troubleshooting for various engine, electrical, and mechanical issues, including fuel injection system diagnostics.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand History:

Fiat, an Italian automotive manufacturer founded in 1899, has a long history of producing robust and engaging vehicles, including many successful sports cars.

124 Spider Development:

The Fiat 124 Spider, based on the Fiat 124 sedan platform, was introduced in 1966. Designed by Pininfarina, it underwent several updates throughout its production run, with the 1983 model being one of the later iterations, featuring the larger 2.0L engine and fuel injection.

Production Period:

1966 - 1985 (with production shifting to Pininfarina in 1982 and sold as the Pininfarina Spider Azzurra/Classica after 1983)

Manufacturing Base:

Turin, Italy (initially) and later Grugliasco, Italy (by Pininfarina).

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Contemporary Reviews:

The Fiat 124 Spider was consistently praised in period automotive magazines for its handling, styling, and value proposition compared to its competitors.