The Alfa Romeo 940 B7.000 – Petrol is a 1,498 cc, inline-four, naturally aspirated engine produced between 1985 and 1993. It was engineered as a mid-range power unit for Alfa Romeo's compact hatchbacks, featuring a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) and multi-point fuel injection (MPFI). In standard tune, it delivered 59 kW (80 PS) at 5,800 rpm and 115 Nm of torque at 3,200 rpm, offering balanced performance for urban and highway driving.
Fitted primarily to the Alfa Romeo 33 Series 1 and 33 Series 2 hatchbacks, the 940 B7.000 – Petrol was designed for responsive handling and moderate fuel efficiency. Its emissions compliance was achieved through a catalytic converter and closed-loop lambda control, meeting early Euro 1 standards in certain markets by 1992. The engine's transverse front-wheel-drive layout and compact design contributed to the 33’s agile chassis dynamics and interior space optimization.
One documented service concern is premature wear of the hydraulic tappets, which can result in persistent valve train noise and reduced volumetric efficiency. This issue, referenced in Alfa Romeo Technical Service Bulletin 85/06, is attributed to oil degradation and inadequate filtration in extended service intervals. From 1988, revised tappet materials and updated oil filter specifications were introduced across the 33 production line.
Production years 1985–1991 meet pre-Euro emissions benchmarks; 1992–1993 models comply with Euro 1 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5679).
The Alfa Romeo 940 B7.000 – Petrol is a 1,498 cc inline-four naturally aspirated engine engineered for compact hatchbacks (1985–1993). It combines SOHC valvetrain architecture with multi-point fuel injection to deliver linear power delivery and responsive mid-range torque. Designed to meet evolving European emissions targets, it balances drivability with mechanical simplicity in lightweight platforms.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,498 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, SOHC, 8-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 78.0 mm × 78.5 mm | |
| Power output | 59 kW (80 PS) @ 5,800 rpm | |
| Torque | 115 Nm @ 3,200 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch L-Jetronic MPFI | |
| Emissions standard | Pre-Euro (1985–1991); Euro 1 (1992–1993) | |
| Compression ratio | 9.4:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Rubber timing belt with spring-loaded tensioner | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-40, API SF/CC | |
| Dry weight | 92 kg |
The naturally aspirated design provides smooth throttle response ideal for daily driving but requires adherence to 60,000 km timing belt replacement intervals to prevent interference damage. SAE 10W-40 mineral oil meeting API SF/CC is specified due to hydraulic tappet compatibility and camshaft lubrication demands. Extended idling increases oil temperature, accelerating tappet wear. Fuel quality should meet EN 228 standards to ensure stable L-Jetronic operation. Post-1988 models feature upgraded tappets; pre-1988 units should be inspected for lifter collapse per Alfa Romeo SIB 85/06. Catalytic converters require lead-free petrol only to prevent poisoning and backpressure issues.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 10W-40 API SF/CC specification (Alfa Romeo SIB 85/06). Compatible with ACEA A1/B1 (1988 onwards).
Emissions: Euro 1 certification applies to 1992–1993 models only (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5679). Pre-1992 units meet national pre-regulatory standards.
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585. Output unchanged across production run (Alfa Romeo TIS Doc. A33-870).
Alfa Romeo Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A33-870, A33-871, A33-873, SIB 85/06
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5679)
ISO 1585: Road vehicles — Method of measurement of fuel consumption
The Alfa Romeo 940 B7.000 – Petrol was used across Alfa Romeo's 940 Series platform with transverse mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake manifolds in the 33 Quadrifoglio Verde and revised ECU calibrations in later 33 Series 2 models-and from 1988 the facelifted 33 Series 2 adopted a secondary air injection system for improved cold-start emissions, creating service part distinctions. 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 A33-872). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('B' for 1.5L petrol). Pre-1988 models have ribbed black intake manifolds; post-1988 units use smooth cast alloy manifolds. Critical differentiation from 1.3L variants: 940 B7.000 has a dual exhaust manifold port and Bosch L-Jetronic ECU (round connectors), while 1.3L units use single ports and LE-Jetronic. Service parts require model-year verification—timing belts for pre-1988 models are incompatible with post-facelift variants due to tensioner redesign (Alfa Romeo SIB 85/06).
The 940 B7.000 – Petrol's primary reliability risk is hydraulic tappet failure on pre-1988 builds, with elevated incidence in high-temperature climates. Alfa Romeo internal field reports from 1989 indicated a significant number of pre-1988 engines suffering tappet collapse before 75,000 km, while VCA MOT records show increased catalytic converter blockages in urban-driven examples. Extended idling and delayed maintenance amplify tappet degradation, making adherence to replacement intervals critical.
Analysis derived from Alfa Romeo technical bulletins (1985-1993) and UK DVSA failure statistics (1990-1995). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about ALFA-ROMEO 940B7000.
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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