The Alfa Romeo 955 A3.000 – Petrol is a 1,712 cc, inline-four, naturally aspirated engine produced between 1987 and 1993. It was developed as a mid-range powerplant for Alfa Romeo's hatchback and saloon models, featuring a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) and multi-point fuel injection (MPFI). In standard tune, it delivered 68 kW (92 PS) at 5,800 rpm and 134 Nm of torque at 3,200 rpm, offering balanced performance for urban and highway driving.
Fitted primarily to the Alfa Romeo 75, 33 Series 2, and 75 Touring platforms, the 955 A3.000 – Petrol was engineered for responsive handling and refined drivability. 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 and saloon applications.
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 87/05, is attributed to oil degradation and inadequate filtration in extended service intervals. From 1990, revised tappet materials and updated oil filter specifications were introduced across the 955-series production lines.
All production years (1987–1993) meet Euro 1 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5681).
The Alfa Romeo 955 A3.000 – Petrol is a 1,712 cc inline-four naturally aspirated engine engineered for compact and mid-size platforms (1987–1993). It combines SOHC 8-valve architecture with multi-point fuel injection to deliver linear power delivery and smooth mid-range torque. Designed to meet Euro 1 emissions standards, it balances drivability with mechanical simplicity in both hatchback and saloon applications.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,712 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, SOHC, 8-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 82.0 mm × 81.0 mm | |
| Power output | 68 kW (92 PS) @ 5,800 rpm | |
| Torque | 134 Nm @ 3,200 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch L-Jetronic MPFI | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 1 | |
| Compression ratio | 9.5:1 | |
| 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 | 96 kg |
The naturally aspirated design provides predictable throttle response ideal for daily driving but requires adherence to 60,000 km timing belt replacement intervals to prevent interference failure. 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-1990 models feature upgraded tappets; pre-1990 units should be inspected for collapse per Alfa Romeo SIB 87/05. 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 87/05). Compatible with ACEA A1/B1 (1989 onwards).
Emissions: Euro 1 certification applies to entire production run (1987–1993) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5681).
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585. Output unchanged across production run (Alfa Romeo TIS Doc. A75-935).
Alfa Romeo Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A75-935, A75-936, A75-938, SIB 87/05
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5681)
ISO 1585: Road vehicles — Method of measurement of fuel consumption
The Alfa Romeo 955 A3.000 – Petrol was used across Alfa Romeo's 955 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 33 Series 2-and from 1990 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 A75-937). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('A' for 1.7L petrol). Pre-1990 models have ribbed black intake manifolds; post-1990 units use smooth cast alloy manifolds. Critical differentiation from 1.3L variants: 955 A3.000 has a dual exhaust manifold 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-1990 models are incompatible with post-facelift variants due to tensioner redesign (Alfa Romeo SIB 87/05).
The 955 A3.000 – Petrol's primary reliability risk is hydraulic tappet failure on pre-1990 builds, with elevated incidence in high-temperature climates. Alfa Romeo internal field reports from 1992 indicated a significant number of pre-1990 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 (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 955A3000.
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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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
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