The Alfa Romeo AR 01623 – Petrol is a 1,995 cc, inline-four, naturally aspirated engine produced between 1979 and 1987. It was engineered as a refined powerplant for Alfa Romeo's compact executive platforms, featuring a twin-cam (DOHC), 8-valve configuration and Bosch L-Jetronic fuel injection. In standard tune it delivered 98 kW (134 PS) and 170 Nm of torque, with precise valve timing enabling smooth power delivery.
Fitted primarily to the Alfa Romeo Alfetta 2.0 and Giulietta 78, the AR 01623 – Petrol was designed for balanced handling and responsive driving dynamics. Its character emphasizes linear power delivery and mechanical refinement, making it well-suited for both daily use and spirited motoring. Emissions compliance was achieved via catalytic converter and lambda feedback, meeting Euro 0 standards in early production years.
One documented service concern involves early camshaft drive chain wear, highlighted in Alfa Romeo Service Information Bulletin 80/06. This issue stems from inadequate lubrication and chain guide degradation under sustained high-RPM use. From 1982, revised chain materials and tensioner assemblies were introduced to improve durability.
Production years 1979–1981 meet Euro 0 standards; 1982–1987 models comply with Euro 1 (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6231).
The Alfa Romeo AR 01623 – Petrol is a 1,995 cc inline-four, naturally aspirated engine engineered for compact sedans and coupes (1979–1987). It combines twin-cam architecture with electronic fuel injection to deliver smooth, driver-focused performance. Designed to meet early Euro emissions standards, it balances mechanical engagement with everyday usability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,995 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 8-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 84.0 mm × 90.0 mm | |
| Power output | 98 kW (134 PS) @ 5,900 rpm | |
| Torque | 170 Nm @ 3,600 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch L-Jetronic fuel injection | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 0 (pre-1982); Euro 1 (1982–1987) | |
| Compression ratio | 9.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven with automatic tensioner | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-40, API SL/CF | |
| Dry weight | 139 kg |
The DOHC design provides responsive 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. The Bosch L-Jetronic system requires periodic airflow meter and injector servicing to maintain drivability. Post-1982 models benefit from upgraded chain materials and tensioner design per Alfa Romeo SIB 80/06; pre-1982 units should be retrofitted for improved reliability. Lambda sensor maintenance is essential for consistent emissions compliance.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 10W-40 API SL/CF specification (Alfa Romeo SIB 80/06). Compatible with ACEA A2/B2 standards.
Emissions: Euro 1 certification applies to 1982–1987 models only (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6231). 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 A77125, A77415, SIB 80/06
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/6231)
ISO 1585: Road vehicles — Methods of measurement of fuel consumption
The Alfa Romeo AR 01623 – Petrol was used across Alfa Romeo's Alfetta/Giulietta 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 Alfetta and modified exhaust routing in the Giulietta-and from 1982 the updated Alfetta 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 A77165). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('C' for 2.0L DOHC units). Pre-1982 models feature silver valve covers with black rubber gaskets; post-1982 units use black valve covers. Critical differentiation from 1.6L variants: The AR 01623 – Petrol has a DOHC head with exposed camshaft covers and electronic fuel injection. Service parts require production date verification—cam chains for pre-1982 models are incompatible with later tensioner designs (Alfa Romeo SIB 80/06).
The AR 01623 – 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 1984 reported a significant number of pre-1982 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 (1979–1987) and UK DVSA failure statistics (1981–1988). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about ALFA-ROMEO AR01623.
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EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
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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
WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
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VCA Certification Portal
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