The Alfa Romeo 940 B5.000 – Petrol is a 2,492 cc, inline-five, naturally aspirated engine produced between 1987 and 1993. It was developed as a smooth, refined powerplant for Alfa Romeo's executive saloon and sport wagon platforms, featuring a twin-spark (Bussola) ignition system, belt-driven SOHC, and multi-point fuel injection. In standard tune, it delivered 118 kW (160 PS) and 206 Nm of torque, with balanced firing intervals contributing to reduced vibration and enhanced drivability.
Fitted primarily to the Alfa Romeo 164 (base and 3.0 V6 variant with shared architecture), the 940 B5.000 – Petrol was engineered for long-distance comfort and relaxed cruising. Its character emphasizes linear power delivery and mid-range responsiveness, suitable for highway driving and continental touring. Emissions compliance was achieved via catalytic converter and lambda feedback, meeting Euro 1 standards in later production years.
One documented service concern involves early camshaft belt failures, highlighted in Alfa Romeo Service Information Bulletin 89/06. This issue stems from tensioner wear and coolant intrusion in high-heat environments. From 1990, revised belt materials and tensioner assemblies were introduced to improve durability.
Production years 1987–1989 meet Euro 0 standards; 1990–1993 models comply with Euro 1 (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789).
The Alfa Romeo 940 B5.000 – Petrol is a 2,492 cc inline-five, naturally aspirated engine engineered for executive saloons (1987–1993). It combines twin-spark ignition with multi-point fuel injection to deliver smooth, refined performance. Designed to meet Euro 1 emissions standards in later builds, it balances touring capability with everyday usability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,492 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-5, SOHC, 10-valve, twin-spark | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 88.0 mm × 81.6 mm | |
| Power output | 118 kW (160 PS) @ 5,700 rpm | |
| Torque | 206 Nm @ 3,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch Motronic with twin-spark ignition | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 0 (pre-1990); Euro 1 (1990–1993) | |
| Compression ratio | 9.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Single cam belt with hydraulic tensioner | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-40, API SL/CF | |
| Dry weight | 162 kg |
The inline-five layout provides smooth power delivery and reduced vibration but demands strict adherence to 60,000 km cam belt replacement intervals to prevent catastrophic failure. SAE 10W-40 oil meeting API SL/CF standards is recommended to ensure valve train lubrication and thermal stability. Coolant leaks near the timing cover should be addressed promptly to avoid belt contamination. The Bosch Motronic system requires periodic airflow meter and injector servicing to maintain drivability. Post-1990 models benefit from upgraded belt materials and tensioner design per Alfa Romeo SIB 89/06; pre-1990 units should be retrofitted for improved reliability. Lambda sensor maintenance is essential for consistent emissions compliance.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 10W-40 API SL/CF specification (Alfa Romeo SIB 89/06). Compatible with ACEA A2/B2 standards.
Emissions: Euro 1 certification applies to 1990–1993 models only (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789). Earlier models meet Euro 0 standards.
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585. Output may vary slightly based on fuel octane (RON 95 minimum).
Alfa Romeo Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A77520, A77435, SIB 89/06
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/6789)
ISO 1585: Road vehicles — Methods of measurement of fuel consumption
The Alfa Romeo 940 B5.000 – Petrol was used across Alfa Romeo's 164 platform with longitudinal mounting and shared architecture with Lancia models in select European markets. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake manifolds in the 164 and revised exhaust routing in the 164 LS-and from 1990 the updated 164 Series 2 models adopted improved emissions controls, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front-facing side of the cylinder block, near the starter motor (Alfa Romeo TIS A77550). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('H' for 2.5 units). Pre-1990 models feature silver valve covers with black rubber gaskets; post-1990 units use black valve covers. Critical differentiation from non-twin-spark variants: The 940 B5.000 – Petrol has two spark plug wires per cylinder and a dual-output ignition coil. Service parts require production date verification—cam belts for pre-1990 models are incompatible with later tensioner designs (Alfa Romeo SIB 89/06).
The 940 B5.000 – Petrol's primary reliability risk is cam belt failure on early builds, with elevated incidence in high-temperature or neglected maintenance conditions. Internal Alfa Romeo service data from 1991 reported a significant number of pre-1990 engines suffering belt-related damage before 80,000 km, while VCA field reports link timing failures to delayed servicing. Extended intervals and coolant leaks increase belt slippage and degradation, making timely replacement and tensioner inspection critical.
Analysis derived from Alfa Romeo technical bulletins (1987–1993) and UK DVSA failure statistics (1990–1995). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about ALFA-ROMEO 940B500.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.
VCA Certification Portal
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