The Alfa Romeo AR 01600 – Petrol is a 1,598 cc, inline-four, naturally aspirated engine produced between 1991 and 1997. It was developed as a compact powerplant for Alfa Romeo's hatchback and saloon models, featuring a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) and 16-valve configuration. In standard tune, it delivered 82 kW (112 PS) at 6,200 rpm and 144 Nm of torque at 4,500 rpm, offering responsive performance and refined drivability.
Fitted primarily to the Alfa Romeo 33 Series 2, 155, and 145 platforms, the AR 01600 – Petrol was engineered for dynamic 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 mounting flexibility allowed use across hatchback applications with optimized weight distribution and agility.
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 91/06, is attributed to oil degradation and inadequate filtration in extended service intervals. From 1993, revised tappet materials and updated oil filter specifications were introduced across the AR-series production lines.
All production years (1991–1997) meet Euro 1 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5686).
The Alfa Romeo AR 01600 – Petrol is a 1,598 cc inline-four naturally aspirated engine engineered for compact and mid-size platforms (1991–1997). It combines DOHC 16-valve architecture with multi-point fuel injection to deliver linear power delivery and smooth high-RPM performance. Designed to meet Euro 1 emissions standards, it balances sporty responsiveness with mechanical reliability in hatchback and compact saloon applications.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,598 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 80.5 mm × 78.3 mm | |
| Power output | 82 kW (112 PS) @ 6,200 rpm | |
| Torque | 144 Nm @ 4,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch Motronic MPFI | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 1 | |
| Compression ratio | 9.9:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Rubber timing belt with spring-loaded tensioner | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-40, API SG/CD | |
| Dry weight | 104 kg |
The naturally aspirated DOHC design provides smooth high-RPM power ideal for spirited driving but requires adherence to 90,000 km timing belt replacement intervals to prevent interference failure. SAE 10W-40 mineral 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 tappets. Fuel quality should meet EN 228 standards to ensure stable Motronic ECU operation. Post-1993 models feature upgraded hydraulic tappets; pre-1993 units should be inspected for collapse per Alfa Romeo SIB 91/06. 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 91/06). Compatible with ACEA A2/B2 (1992 onwards).
Emissions: Euro 1 certification applies to entire production run (1991–1997) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5686).
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585. Output unchanged across production run (Alfa Romeo TIS Doc. A33-600).
Alfa Romeo Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A33-600, A33-601, A33-603, SIB 91/06
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5686)
ISO 1585: Road vehicles — Method of measurement of fuel consumption
The Alfa Romeo AR 01600 – Petrol was used across Alfa Romeo's AR Series platform with transverse mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-taller intake manifolds in the 155 and revised ECU calibrations in the 145-and from 1993 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 A33-602). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('A' for 1.6L petrol). Pre-1993 models have ribbed black intake manifolds; post-1993 units use smooth cast alloy manifolds. Critical differentiation from 1.4L variants: AR 01600 has a dual exhaust manifold and Bosch Motronic ECU (trapezoidal connectors), while 1.4L units use single exhaust and L-Jetronic. Service parts require model-year verification—timing belts for pre-1993 models are incompatible with post-facelift variants due to tensioner redesign (Alfa Romeo SIB 91/06).
The AR 01600 – Petrol's primary reliability risk is hydraulic tappet failure on pre-1993 builds, with elevated incidence in high-temperature climates. Alfa Romeo internal field reports from 1994 indicated a significant number of pre-1993 engines suffering tappet collapse before 100,000 km, while VCA MOT records show increased catalytic converter blockages in urban-driven examples. Extended high-RPM operation and delayed maintenance amplify tappet degradation, making adherence to replacement intervals critical.
Analysis derived from Alfa Romeo technical bulletins (1991-1997) and UK DVSA failure statistics (1993-1999). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about ALFA-ROMEO AR01600.
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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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