The Alfa Romeo 940 A1.000 is a 999 cc, inline-three petrol engine produced between 1987 and 1992. It was developed as a compact, lightweight powerplant for Alfa Romeo's entry-level models, featuring a single overhead camshaft (SOHC), 8-valve configuration, and multi-point fuel injection (MPFI). Designed for urban mobility, it delivered 37 kW (50 PS) at 5,800 rpm and 78 Nm of torque at 3,500 rpm, prioritising fuel economy and ease of use in stop-start traffic.
Fitted primarily to the Alfa Romeo 33 (Type 907) Series 2 and Series 3 hatchbacks, the 940 A1.000 targeted city drivers seeking an affordable, agile vehicle with Italian styling. Its driving character emphasized low-end responsiveness and mechanical refinement at moderate speeds. Emissions compliance was achieved through a catalytic converter and lambda feedback system, meeting the Euro 1 standard introduced in 1992 for later production units.
One documented reliability concern is premature camshaft wear, particularly in early production engines (1987–1989), highlighted in Alfa Romeo Technical Bulletin 88/07. The issue stemmed from inadequate lubrication to the cam lobes due to a restricted oil gallery design. In 1990, Alfa Romeo implemented a revised oil feed path and upgraded camshaft material, significantly improving durability in post-1990 models.
Production years 1987–1991 meet Euro 0 standards; 1992 models comply with Euro 1 (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Alfa Romeo 940 A1.000 is a 999 cc inline-three petrol engine engineered for compact hatchbacks (1987–1992). It combines multi-point fuel injection with a single overhead camshaft to deliver responsive city driving characteristics. Designed to meet evolving emissions standards, it balances simplicity with everyday usability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 999 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-3, SOHC, 8-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 70.0 mm × 81.6 mm | |
| Power output | 37 kW (50 PS) @ 5,800 rpm | |
| Torque | 78 Nm @ 3,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Magneti Marelli MPFI | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 0 (pre-1992); Euro 1 (1992) | |
| Compression ratio | 9.2:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven (integrated with oil pump) | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-40, API SF/CC | |
| Dry weight | 85 kg |
The naturally aspirated design provides predictable, linear throttle response ideal for city driving but requires consistent maintenance to prevent known camshaft wear issues. SAE 10W-40 oil meeting API SF/CC specifications is essential, as it ensures adequate lubrication for the chain-driven timing system and high-lift cam profile. Oil changes should not exceed 12,000 km or 12 months to maintain cam lobe integrity. The Magneti Marelli MPFI system is robust but sensitive to poor fuel quality; use of low-sulphur petrol meeting EN 228 standards is recommended. Pre-1990 engines should be inspected for cam wear, and the revised oil gallery upgrade (per Technical Bulletin 88/07) is strongly advised for longevity. The catalytic converter requires periodic inspection to prevent clogging and maintain emissions compliance.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 10W-40, API SF/CC specification (Alfa Romeo SIB 88/07). Compatible with ACEA A2 standards.
Emissions: Euro 0 certification applies to pre-1992 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678). Euro 1 applies to 1992 production only.
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. Output is consistent across all markets for this engine variant.
Alfa Romeo Technical Information System (TIS): Docs 907.0001, 907.0002, 907.0003, SIB 88/07
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
ISO International Standards: ISO 1585 Road vehicles — Passenger cars — Test method for the measurement of specific power consumption
The Alfa Romeo 940 A1.000 was used across Alfa Romeo's Type 907 platform with transverse mounting and front-wheel drive. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake manifolds in the 33 Quadrifoglio Verde and revised ECU mapping for higher idle stability-and from 1990 the facelifted 33 Series 3 adopted updated emissions controls, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the left-side cylinder block near the transmission bellhousing (Alfa Romeo TIS 907.0006). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('H' for 940 A1.000). Pre-1990 models have a blue valve cover with a chrome Alfa Romeo badge; post-1990 units use a black valve cover. Critical differentiation from 1.3L Twin Spark: The 940 A1.000 has a single camshaft and three fuel injectors, while the Twin Spark has dual camshafts and six injectors. Service parts require model year verification - camshafts and timing chains for pre-1990 engines are incompatible with post-1990 revisions due to oil feed path changes (Alfa Romeo SIB 88/07).
The 940 A1.000's primary reliability risk is premature camshaft wear on early builds, with elevated incidence in high-mileage city use. Internal Alfa Romeo quality reports from 1989 indicated a significant number of pre-1990 engines requiring camshaft replacement before 100,000 km, while UK DVSA records show a higher-than-average failure rate for emissions components in vehicles with neglected maintenance. Extended oil intervals and stop-start driving increase wear on the cam lobes, making adherence to oil change schedules and use of correct specification oil critical.
Analysis derived from Alfa Romeo technical bulletins (1987-1992) and UK DVSA failure statistics (1990-2005). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about ALFA-ROMEO 940A1000.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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