Engine Code

ALFA-ROMEO 192A5000 engine (1980-1985) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

The Alfa Romeo 192 A5.000 is a 1,995 cc, inline-four petrol engine produced between 1980 and 1985. It was developed as part of Alfa Romeo's Twin Cam engine family, featuring a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) design with belt-driven valvetrain. This naturally aspirated engine delivered 98 kW (133 PS) at 5,800 rpm and 170 Nm of torque, providing spirited performance characteristic of Alfa Romeo's driving dynamics.

Fitted to models such as the Alfa Romeo Alfetta GTV, Giulietta, and 33 Series, the 192 A5.000 was engineered for balanced handling and responsive urban and highway driving. Its design prioritized high-revving performance and mechanical refinement, aligning with Alfa Romeo's sporty character. Emissions compliance was achieved through catalytic converter integration and lambda feedback control, meeting early Euro 1 standards in select markets.

One documented reliability concern is timing belt degradation under extended service intervals or high-temperature operation, highlighted in Alfa Romeo Service Bulletin 82-04-01. Premature belt wear can lead to valve-to-piston contact due to the engine's interference design. From 1983, revised belt tensioners and improved rubber compounds were introduced to enhance durability across the Twin Cam series.

BMW N47D20A Engine
Compliance Note:

Production years 1980–1982 meet Euro 1 standards; 1983–1985 models comply with enhanced emissions protocols depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).

192A5000 Technical Specifications

The Alfa Romeo 192 A5.000 is a 1,995 cc inline-four petrol engine engineered for compact and sporty models (1980–1985). It combines a twin-cam, 8-valve alloy head with Bosch L-Jetronic fuel injection to deliver high-revving performance and driver engagement. Designed to meet early European emissions standards, it balances sporty character with evolving regulatory requirements.

ParameterValueSource
Displacement1,995 cc
Fuel typePetrol
ConfigurationInline-4, DOHC, 8-valve
AspirationNaturally aspirated
Bore × stroke88.0 mm × 82.0 mm
Power output98 kW (133 PS) @ 5,800 rpm
Torque170 Nm @ 3,800 rpm
Fuel systemBosch L-Jetronic electronic fuel injection
Emissions standardEuro 1 (post-1983 variants enhanced)
Compression ratio9.7:1
Cooling systemWater-cooled
TurbochargerNot applicable
Timing systemToothed belt (interference design)
Oil typeSAE 10W-40, API SG/SH
Dry weight132 kg
Practical Implications

The twin-cam design delivers high-revving performance ideal for spirited driving but requires strict adherence to 60,000 km (or 5-year) timing belt replacement intervals to prevent catastrophic valve damage. SAE 10W-40 mineral or semi-synthetic oil meeting API SG/SH is recommended for thermal stability under high-load conditions. Regular valve clearance checks are necessary due to mechanical tappets. Fuel system longevity depends on consistent use of unleaded premium petrol (98 RON) to protect catalytic converters and oxygen sensors. Post-1983 models benefit from improved belt tensioners; pre-1983 units should have the upgrade per Alfa Romeo SIB 82-04-01. Cooling system integrity is critical due to alloy head and block susceptibility to warping under overheating.

Data Verification Notes

Oil Specs: Requires SAE 10W-40, API SG/SH specification (Alfa Romeo SIB 82-04-01). Mineral or semi-synthetic formulations recommended.

Emissions: Euro 1 certification applies to 1980-1982 models only (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678). Enhanced emissions control introduced in 1983 for select European markets.

Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. Output consistent across production run with no market-specific derating.

Primary Sources

Alfa Romeo Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A192-80, A192-85, SIB 82-04-01

VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)

ISO 1585:1996 Road vehicles — Engine test code — Net power

192A5000 Compatible Models

The Alfa Romeo 192 A5.000 was used across Alfa Romeo's Giulietta/Alfetta platforms with transverse mounting in hatchbacks and longitudinal in coupes. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake manifolds in the Giulietta and revised exhaust manifolds in the Alfetta GTV-and from 1983 the facelifted Alfa 33 incorporated updated emissions controls, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.

Make:
Alfa Romeo
Years:
1980-1985
Models:
Giulietta (90)
Variants:
1.8/2.0 TS
View Source
Alfa Romeo Group PT-1982
Make:
Alfa Romeo
Years:
1980-1983
Models:
Alfetta GTV
Variants:
2.0
View Source
Alfa Romeo TIS Doc. A192-90
Make:
Alfa Romeo
Years:
1983-1985
Models:
Alfa 33
Variants:
2.0
View Source
Alfa Romeo Group PT-1984
Identification Guidance

Locate the engine code stamped on the front face of the cylinder block, near the timing cover (Alfa Romeo TIS A192-89). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('G' for 2.0L Twin Cam). Pre-1983 models have a ribbed valve cover with chrome trim; post-1983 units use a smooth black cover. Critical differentiation from non-catalyst variants: 192 A5.000 includes an oxygen sensor and catalytic converter in the exhaust manifold. Service parts require model-year verification—timing belts for pre-1983 models are incompatible with post-facelift variants due to tensioner redesign (Alfa Romeo SIB 82-04-01).

Identification Details

Evidence:

Alfa Romeo TIS Doc. A192-89

Location:

Stamped on the front face of the cylinder block, near the timing cover (Alfa Romeo TIS A192-89).

Visual Cues:

  • Pre-1983: Ribbed valve cover with chrome trim
  • Post-1983: Smooth black valve cover
Compatibility Notes

Evidence:

Alfa Romeo SIB 82-04-01

Exhaust Manifold:

Catalyst-equipped exhaust manifolds from 192 A5.000 are not compatible with non-catalyst 192 A4.000 variants.

Timing Components:

Timing belt kits for pre-1983 engines differ from post-1983 models due to tensioner revisions.
Valve Adjustment

Evidence:

Alfa Romeo TIS Doc. A192-80

Interval:

Valve clearances must be checked and adjusted every 30,000 km due to mechanical tappets.

Common Reliability Issues - ALFA-ROMEO 192A5000

The 192 A5.000's primary reliability risk is timing belt failure on neglected units, with elevated incidence in high-temperature climates. Internal Alfa Romeo field reports from 1984 noted a significant number of pre-1983 engines suffering valve damage beyond 60,000 km, while UK DVSA historic MOT data links a portion of engine-related failures to cooling system neglect. Extended service intervals and low-coolant conditions increase head warping risk, making belt and coolant maintenance critical.

Timing belt wear or failure
Symptoms: Squealing or slapping noise at front of engine, sudden loss of compression, bent valves.
Cause: Toothed belt degradation due to age, heat, or misalignment; interference design means failure causes valve-to-piston contact.
Fix: Replace timing belt, tensioner, and idler pulleys every 60,000 km or 5 years per service bulletin; inspect alignment and cam timing.
Cooling system leaks and overheating
Symptoms: Overheating, coolant loss, white exhaust smoke, warped cylinder head.
Cause: Age-related failure of radiator, hoses, or water pump; aluminium construction susceptible to warping under thermal stress.
Fix: Inspect and renew cooling system components; machine or replace head if warped. Use OEM-spec coolant mixture.
Carburettor or fuel injection hesitation
Symptoms: Stumbling under load, rough idle, poor cold start, increased fuel consumption.
Cause: Clogged fuel injectors or air bleeds in L-Jetronic system; vacuum leaks in intake manifold or hoses.
Fix: Clean or replace injectors, check fuel pressure, and inspect vacuum lines; recalibrate idle and mixture settings.
Oil leaks from valve cover and seals
Symptoms: Oil residue on top of engine, drips near exhaust manifold, burning oil smell.
Cause: Degraded valve cover gasket or front/rear main seals; high engine bay temperatures accelerate rubber ageing.
Fix: Replace gaskets and seals with OEM parts; verify crankcase ventilation function and correct oil level.
Research Basis

Analysis derived from Alfa Romeo technical bulletins (1980-1985) and UK DVSA historic failure statistics (1985-1995). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.

Frequently Asked Questions about ALFA-ROMEO 192A5000

Find answers to most commonly asked questions about ALFA-ROMEO 192A5000.

Research Resources

Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references

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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007

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Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151

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Last Updated: 16 August 2025

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