The Alfa Romeo 955 A8.000 – Petrol is a 1,970 cc, inline-four, naturally aspirated engine produced between 1992 and 1998. It was engineered as a refined, performance-oriented powerplant for Alfa Romeo's executive sedan lineup, featuring a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) layout and Marelli IAW 59 electronic fuel injection. In standard tune it delivered 118 kW (160 PS) at 6,200 rpm and 185 Nm of torque at 4,500 rpm, combining high-RPM responsiveness with improved emissions compliance.
Fitted to the Alfa Romeo 164 and shared with the Lancia Thema (Type Four platform), the 955 A8.000 – Petrol was designed for spirited driving and balanced chassis dynamics. Its high specific output and free-revving nature catered to enthusiasts seeking a driver-focused experience. Emissions control was achieved through a three-way catalytic converter and closed-loop lambda feedback, enabling Euro 2 compliance for post-1993 models.
One documented reliability concern involves premature wear of the timing chain tensioner, particularly in engines subjected to extended oil change intervals or inadequate lubrication. This issue, referenced in Alfa Romeo Service Information Bulletin 93.04.04, is attributed to marginal oil flow at the upper chain guide under sustained high-RPM operation. In 1994, an updated tensioner design with improved oil feed geometry and reinforced guide rails was introduced across the production run to enhance durability.
Production years 1992–1993 meet Euro 1 standards; 1994–1998 models comply with Euro 2 (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5682).
The Alfa Romeo 955 A8.000 – Petrol is a 1,970 cc inline-four naturally aspirated engine engineered for executive sedans (1992–1998). It combines DOHC valvetrain architecture with Marelli IAW 59 electronic fuel injection to deliver high-RPM responsiveness and linear power delivery. Designed to meet Euro 2 standards in later production, it balances sporty performance with evolving regulatory requirements.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,970 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 8-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 86.0 mm × 84.6 mm | |
| Power output | 118 kW (160 PS) @ 6,200 rpm | |
| Torque | 185 Nm @ 4,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Marelli IAW 59 electronic fuel injection | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 1 (1992–1993); Euro 2 (1994–1998) | |
| Compression ratio | 10.4:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven (single-row, tensioner-equipped) | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-40 (API SH/CD) | |
| Dry weight | 137 kg |
The DOHC design enables high-RPM performance ideal for spirited driving but demands strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals using SAE 10W-40 meeting API SH/CD standards to prevent timing chain wear. High engine speeds increase stress on the tensioner and guide rails, necessitating inspection of chain elongation and oil supply at major service intervals. The Marelli IAW 59 system requires stable fuel pressure and clean injectors to maintain throttle response. Cold-start enrichment faults may arise from aging temperature sensors. Post-1994 models benefit from improved oil feed geometry; pre-1994 units should verify guide rail condition during rebuilds per Alfa Romeo SIB 93.04.04. Catalytic converter longevity depends on proper air-fuel mixture calibration.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 10W-40 API SH/CD specification (Alfa Romeo SIB 93.04.04). Supersedes ACEA B3 requirements.
Emissions: Euro 2 certification applies to 1994–1998 models only (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5682). Pre-1994 models meet Euro 1.
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. Output verified at 6,200 rpm with stock exhaust and intake (Alfa Romeo TIS Doc. A19341).
Alfa Romeo Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A18801, A19341, SIB 93.04.04
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5682)
ISO 1585 Road vehicles — Methods of measurement of fuel consumption and range
The Alfa Romeo 955 A8.000 – Petrol was used across Alfa Romeo's Type Four platform with transverse mounting and shared with Lancia for executive sedan applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—shorter intake manifolds for improved packaging in 164 2.0i models—and from 1994 the updated timing chain tensioner addressed premature wear issues, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped vertically on the left-side cylinder block near the exhaust manifold (Alfa Romeo TIS A18851). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('F' for 2.0L DOHC petrol). Pre-1994 models use the original tensioner with flat guide rail; post-1994 units feature a revised design with ribbed housing and improved oil feed. Critical differentiation: US-spec 164 2.0i includes EGR and catalytic converter, while some European Thema 2.0i models in early production lack a catalytic converter. Service parts require model-year verification—timing chain kits for pre-1994 engines differ in link count from later revisions (Alfa Romeo SIB 93.04.04).
The 955 A8.000 – Petrol's primary reliability risk is timing chain tensioner wear on pre-1994 builds, with elevated incidence in high-RPM usage. Internal Alfa Romeo quality reports from 1995 indicated a significant portion of engines required chain replacement before 120,000 km, while UK DVSA MOT records show a notable share of emissions failures linked to ageing fuel injection components in high-mileage units. Sustained engine speeds and delayed oil changes increase wear risk, making lubrication quality and service adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Alfa Romeo technical bulletins (1992–1998) and UK DVSA failure statistics (1993–2008). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about ALFA-ROMEO 955A8000.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
Independent Technical Reference
EngineCode.uk is an independent technical reference platform operated by Engine Finders UK Ltd. We are not affiliated with ALFA-ROMEO or any other manufacturer. All content is compiled from official sources for educational, research, and identification purposes.
Strict Sourcing Protocol
Only official OEM publications and government portals are cited.
No Unverified Sources
No Wikipedia, forums, blogs, or third-party aggregators are used.
Transparency in Gaps
If a data point is not officially disclosed, it is marked 'Undisclosed'.
Regulatory Stability
EU regulations are referenced using CELEX identifiers for long-term stability.
ALFA-ROMEO Official Site
Owner literature, service manuals, technical releases, and plant documentation.
EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.
DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
UK type-approval authority for automotive products.
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
Type-approval guidance and documentation.
Data Compilation
All data is compiled from OEM and government publications, reviewed by our editorial team, and updated regularly.
Corrections & Submissions
To request a correction or submit documentation, email: corrections@enginecode.uk
Fair Dealing Use
All engine and vehicle images are used under UK 'fair dealing' principles for technical identification and educational use. Rights remain with their respective owners.
Copyright Concerns
For copyright concerns, email: copyrights@enginecode.uk
GDPR Compliance
EngineCode.uk complies with UK GDPR. We do not collect personal data unless explicitly provided.
Data Requests
For access, correction, or deletion requests, email: gdpr@enginecode.uk
Trademark Notice
All trademarks, logos, and engine codes are the property of their respective owners. Use on this site is strictly for reference and identification.
No Paid Endorsements
This website contains no paid endorsements, affiliate links, or commercial partnerships. We do not sell parts or services.
Funding Model
Our mission is to provide accurate, verifiable, and neutral technical data for owners, restorers, and technicians. This site is self-funded.
All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialALFA-ROMEO documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed“ .
All external links open in new tabs. Please verify current availability of resources.
