The Alfa Romeo 940 C1.000 – Petrol is a 1,712 cc, inline-four, naturally aspirated engine produced between 1989 and 1995. It was developed as a compact, fuel-efficient powerplant for Alfa Romeo's front-wheel-drive platforms, featuring a single overhead camshaft (SOHC), 8-valve configuration, and multi-point fuel injection. In standard tune, it delivered 82 kW (112 PS) and 148 Nm of torque, with optimized breathing efficiency for urban driving conditions.
Fitted primarily to the Alfa Romeo 155 (1.7 TS) and 33 II (1.7 TS), the 940 C1.000 – Petrol was engineered for responsive city driving and balanced fuel economy. Its character emphasizes smooth throttle response and low-end torque, making it well-suited for European urban environments. Emissions compliance was achieved via catalytic converter and closed-loop lambda control, meeting Euro 1 standards across its production run.
One documented service concern involves early camshaft belt wear, highlighted in Alfa Romeo Service Information Bulletin 89/08. This issue stems from tensioner degradation and coolant intrusion in high-temperature areas. From 1991, revised belt materials and tensioner assemblies were introduced to improve durability.
All models comply with Euro 1 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789).
The Alfa Romeo 940 C1.000 – Petrol is a 1,712 cc inline-four, naturally aspirated engine engineered for compact saloons and hatchbacks (1989–1995). It combines SOHC 8-valve architecture with multi-point fuel injection to deliver efficient, responsive performance. Designed to meet Euro 1 emissions standards, it balances drivability with fuel economy in urban applications.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,712 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, SOHC, 8-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 84.0 mm × 77.0 mm | |
| Power output | 82 kW (112 PS) @ 5,900 rpm | |
| Torque | 148 Nm @ 3,800 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Magneti Marelli IAW 07 with multi-point injection | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 1 | |
| Compression ratio | 9.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Single cam belt with spring-loaded tensioner | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-40, API SL/CF | |
| Dry weight | 126 kg |
The SOHC 8-valve design provides reliable performance but demands adherence to 60,000 km cam belt replacement intervals to prevent interference damage. 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 degradation. The Magneti Marelli IAW 07 system requires periodic airflow meter and injector servicing to maintain drivability. Post-1991 models benefit from upgraded belt materials and tensioner design per Alfa Romeo SIB 89/08; pre-1991 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 89/08). Compatible with ACEA A2/B2 standards.
Emissions: Euro 1 certification applies to all production years (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789).
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585. Output may vary slightly based on fuel octane (RON 95 minimum).
Alfa Romeo Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A77610, A77438, SIB 89/08
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/6789)
ISO 1585: Road vehicles — Methods of measurement of fuel consumption
The Alfa Romeo 940 C1.000 – Petrol was used across Alfa Romeo's 155/33 platforms with transverse mounting and shared architecture with Lancia models in select European markets. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake manifolds in the 33 and revised exhaust routing in the 155-and from 1991 the updated 155 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 A77650). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('F' for 1.7 TS units). Pre-1991 models feature silver valve covers with black rubber gaskets; post-1991 units use black valve covers. Critical differentiation from 1.7 Twin Spark variants: The 940 C1.000 – Petrol has one spark plug per cylinder and a single-output ignition coil. Service parts require production date verification—cam belts for pre-1991 models are incompatible with later tensioner designs (Alfa Romeo SIB 89/08).
The 940 C1.000 – 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 1992 reported a significant number of pre-1991 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 (1989–1995) and UK DVSA failure statistics (1990–1996). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about ALFA-ROMEO 940C1000.
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ALFA-ROMEO Official Site
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EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
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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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