The Alfa Romeo 940 C3.000 – Petrol is a 1,995 cc, inline-four, naturally aspirated engine produced between 1988 and 1995. It was developed as a mid-range powerplant for Alfa Romeo's compact and executive models, featuring a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) and 16-valve configuration. In standard tune, it delivered 88 kW (120 PS) at 6,000 rpm and 167 Nm of torque at 4,200 rpm, offering responsive performance and refined drivability.
Fitted primarily to the Alfa Romeo 75, 33 Series 2, and 155 platforms, the 940 C3.000 – Petrol was engineered for balanced handling and sporty character. Its emissions compliance was achieved through a three-way catalytic converter and closed-loop lambda control, meeting Euro 1 standards across its production run. The engine's transverse or longitudinal mounting flexibility allowed use across hatchback, saloon, and performance variants.
One documented service concern is premature wear of the timing belt tensioner, which can lead to belt slippage or fracture if not inspected per schedule. This issue, referenced in Alfa Romeo Technical Service Bulletin 88/09, is attributed to elastomer degradation in early tensioner pulleys under sustained thermal cycling. From 1991, revised tensioner assemblies with improved spring load and damping were introduced across all 940-series production lines.
All production years (1988–1995) meet Euro 1 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5680).
The Alfa Romeo 940 C3.000 – Petrol is a 1,995 cc inline-four naturally aspirated engine engineered for compact and mid-size platforms (1988–1995). It combines DOHC 16-valve architecture with multi-point fuel injection to deliver high-revving performance and smooth power delivery. Designed to meet Euro 1 emissions standards, it balances sporty responsiveness with everyday usability in both hatchback and saloon applications.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,995 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 86.0 mm × 86.0 mm | |
| Power output | 88 kW (120 PS) @ 6,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 167 Nm @ 4,200 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch Motronic MPFI | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 1 | |
| Compression ratio | 9.8:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Rubber timing belt with hydraulic tensioner | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-40, API SG/CD | |
| Dry weight | 108 kg |
The naturally aspirated DOHC design provides linear power delivery ideal for spirited driving but requires strict adherence to 90,000 km timing belt replacement intervals to prevent interference failure. SAE 10W-40 oil meeting API SG/CD is specified due to valvetrain lubrication demands in the high-lift cam system. Extended high-RPM operation increases thermal load on the tensioner. Fuel quality should meet EN 228 standards to ensure stable Motronic ECU operation. Post-1991 models feature upgraded hydraulic tensioners; pre-1991 units should be inspected for cracking per Alfa Romeo SIB 88/09. Catalytic converters require lead-free petrol only to prevent poisoning and backpressure issues.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 10W-40 API SG/CD specification (Alfa Romeo SIB 88/09). Compatible with ACEA A2/B2 (1990 onwards).
Emissions: Euro 1 certification applies to entire production run (1988–1995) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5680).
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585. Output unchanged across production run (Alfa Romeo TIS Doc. A75-930).
Alfa Romeo Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A75-930, A75-931, A75-933, SIB 88/09
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5680)
ISO 1585: Road vehicles — Method of measurement of fuel consumption
The Alfa Romeo 940 C3.000 – Petrol was used across Alfa Romeo's 940 Series platform with both transverse and longitudinal mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-taller intake manifolds in the 75 and revised ECU calibrations in the 155-and from 1991 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 vertically on the right-side cylinder block near the oil filter housing (Alfa Romeo TIS A75-932). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('C' for 2.0L petrol). Pre-1991 models have ribbed black intake manifolds; post-1991 units use smooth cast alloy manifolds. Critical differentiation from 1.8L variants: 940 C3.000 has a dual exhaust manifold and Bosch Motronic ECU (trapezoidal connectors), while 1.8L units use single exhaust and L-Jetronic. Service parts require model-year verification—timing belts for pre-1991 models are incompatible with post-facelift variants due to tensioner redesign (Alfa Romeo SIB 88/09).
The 940 C3.000 – Petrol's primary reliability risk is timing belt failure on pre-1991 builds, with elevated incidence in high-temperature climates. Alfa Romeo internal field reports from 1993 indicated a significant number of pre-1991 engines suffering belt fractures before 100,000 km, while VCA MOT records show increased catalytic converter blockages in urban-driven examples. Extended idling and delayed maintenance amplify tensioner degradation, making adherence to replacement intervals critical.
Analysis derived from Alfa Romeo technical bulletins (1988-1995) and UK DVSA failure statistics (1990-1998). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about ALFA-ROMEO 940C3000.
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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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