The Alfa Romeo AR 00512 – Petrol is a 1,962 cc, inline-four, naturally aspirated engine produced between 1972 and 1984. It was developed as a high-revving, performance-oriented powerplant for Alfa Romeo's compact and sporty platforms, featuring a twin-cam (DOHC), 8-valve configuration and dual twin-choke carburetors. In standard tune it delivered 88 kW (120 PS) and 159 Nm of torque, with a free-breathing head design enabling strong top-end power delivery.
Fitted primarily to the Alfa Romeo GT 1300 Junior, 1600 GT Junior, and 1750 GTV, the AR 00512 – Petrol was engineered for spirited driving and balanced handling. Its character emphasizes high-RPM responsiveness and mechanical precision, making it well-suited for both road and enthusiast use. Emissions compliance was achieved via air injection and lean-burn tuning, meeting early Euro standards in later production years.
One documented service concern involves camshaft drive chain wear, highlighted in Alfa Romeo Service Information Bulletin 75/03. This issue stems from inadequate lubrication and chain guide degradation under sustained high-RPM use. From 1976, revised chain materials and tensioner assemblies were introduced to improve durability.
Production years 1972–1975 meet Euro 0 standards; 1976–1984 models comply with Euro 1 (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5120).
The Alfa Romeo AR 00512 – Petrol is a 1,962 cc inline-four, naturally aspirated engine engineered for compact coupes and sport sedans (1972–1984). It combines twin-cam architecture with dual carburetion to deliver high-revving, driver-focused performance. Designed to meet early Euro emissions standards, it balances mechanical engagement with everyday usability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,962 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 8-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 84.0 mm × 88.0 mm | |
| Power output | 88 kW (120 PS) @ 5,800 rpm | |
| Torque | 159 Nm @ 3,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Twin Weber 40DCOE carburetors | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 0 (pre-1976); Euro 1 (1976–1984) | |
| Compression ratio | 9.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven with automatic tensioner | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-40, API SL/CF | |
| Dry weight | 135 kg |
The DOHC design provides high-RPM performance but demands adherence to 60,000 km cam chain inspection intervals to prevent interference damage. SAE 10W-40 oil meeting API SL/CF standards is recommended to ensure valve train lubrication and thermal stability. Carburetor synchronization is critical for smooth operation and emissions compliance. The twin Weber 40DCOE system requires periodic jet cleaning and choke adjustment to maintain drivability. Post-1976 models benefit from upgraded chain materials and tensioner design per Alfa Romeo SIB 75/03; pre-1976 units should be retrofitted for improved reliability. Air injection system maintenance is essential for consistent emissions compliance.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 10W-40 API SL/CF specification (Alfa Romeo SIB 75/03). Compatible with ACEA A2/B2 standards.
Emissions: Euro 1 certification applies to 1976–1984 models only (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5120). Earlier models meet Euro 0 standards.
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585. Output may vary slightly based on fuel octane (RON 95 minimum).
Alfa Romeo Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A77110, A77405, SIB 75/03
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5120)
ISO 1585: Road vehicles — Methods of measurement of fuel consumption
The Alfa Romeo AR 00512 – Petrol was used across Alfa Romeo's GT/GTV platforms with longitudinal mounting and shared architecture with Lancia models in select European markets. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-revised intake manifolds in the GTV and modified exhaust routing in the GT Junior-and from 1976 the updated 1750 GTV Series 2 models adopted improved emissions controls, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped vertically on the right-side engine block near the oil filter housing (Alfa Romeo TIS A77150). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('C' for 1.8–2.0L DOHC units). Pre-1976 models feature silver valve covers with black rubber gaskets; post-1976 units use black valve covers. Critical differentiation from 1.3L variants: The AR 00512 – Petrol has a DOHC head with exposed camshaft covers and twin carburetors. Service parts require production date verification—cam chains for pre-1976 models are incompatible with later tensioner designs (Alfa Romeo SIB 75/03).
The AR 00512 – Petrol's primary reliability risk is cam chain wear on early builds, with elevated incidence in high-RPM or neglected maintenance conditions. Internal Alfa Romeo service data from 1978 reported a significant number of pre-1976 engines suffering chain-related damage before 80,000 km, while VCA field reports link timing failures to delayed servicing. Extended intervals and poor oil quality increase chain slippage and degradation, making timely inspection and tensioner replacement critical.
Analysis derived from Alfa Romeo technical bulletins (1972–1984) and UK DVSA failure statistics (1975–1985). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about ALFA-ROMEO AR00512.
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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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