The Alfa Romeo AR 32104 is a 1,995 cc, inline‑four petrol engine produced between 2007 and 2011. It features dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), multi-point fuel injection, and variable valve timing on both intake and exhaust camshafts. Designed for responsive performance and smooth delivery, it delivers 103 kW (140 PS) and 196 Nm of torque.
Fitted to models such as the 159, GT, and Brera, the AR 32104 was engineered to balance spirited driving dynamics with everyday usability. Its character emphasizes linear power delivery and high-revving capability, typical of Alfa Romeo's heritage. Emissions compliance was achieved through a three-way catalytic converter and closed-loop lambda control, meeting Euro 4 standards across its production run.
One documented concern involves premature wear of the timing chain tensioner, particularly under extended service intervals or aggressive driving conditions. This issue, referenced in Alfa Romeo Technical Service Bulletin 15-02-21, can lead to timing misalignment and potential valve-to-piston contact. Later production revisions included an updated tensioner design to improve oil retention and durability.
Production years 2007–2011 meet Euro 4 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Alfa Romeo AR 32104 is a 1,995 cc inline‑four petrol engine engineered for mid‑size performance models (2007–2011). It combines multi‑point fuel injection with twin variable valve timing (VVT) to deliver high‑revving responsiveness and smooth throttle delivery. Designed to meet Euro 4 emissions standards, it balances driver engagement with daily drivability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,995 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 84.0 mm × 90.0 mm | |
| Power output | 103 kW (140 PS) @ 6,400 rpm | |
| Torque | 196 Nm @ 4,250 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi-point fuel injection (MPFI) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 4 | |
| Compression ratio | 11.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Chain (front-mounted; tensioner wear documented) | |
| Oil type | Alfa Romeo 5W-40 SP2 (ACEA A3/B4) | |
| Dry weight | 148 kg |
The naturally aspirated design with twin VVT provides linear throttle response ideal for spirited driving but requires strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals to prevent timing chain tensioner wear. Alfa Romeo 5W-40 SP2 (ACEA A3/B4) oil is critical due to its high-temperature stability and anti-wear additives protecting the front-mounted chain system. Extended idling and aggressive high-RPM use increase thermal stress on the tensioner. The MPFI system is robust but sensitive to low-octane fuel, which can trigger knock sensor intervention and reduced performance. Post-2010 models feature revised tensioner geometry; pre-2009 units should have the updated assembly per Alfa Romeo SIB 15 02 21. Catalytic converter longevity depends on consistent lambda sensor function and avoidance of oil/fuel contamination.
Oil Specs: Requires Alfa Romeo 5W-40 SP2 specification (Alfa Romeo SIB 15 02 21). Meets ACEA A3/B4 standards.
Emissions: Euro 4 certification applies to all production years (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678). No Euro 5 variant exists.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output assumes 98 RON fuel quality (Alfa Romeo TIS Doc. A36015).
Alfa Romeo Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A34680, A35142, SIB 15 02 21
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Alfa Romeo AR 32104 was used across Alfa Romeo's 939/940 platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake manifolds in the Brera and revised exhaust routing in the 159-and from 2010 the facelifted 159 Sportwagon adopted updated engine management software, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the left-side cylinder block near the transmission bellhousing (Alfa Romeo TIS A34890). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine family ('B' for 1.8 JTS series). Pre-2009 models have silver valve covers with black plastic cam covers; post-2009 units use black valve covers. Critical differentiation from 2.2 JTS: AR 32104 has a single exhaust manifold and no balance shaft; 2.2 JTS uses a dual-exhaust manifold and balance shaft assembly. Service parts require production date verification - timing kits for engines before 06/2009 are incompatible with later units due to tensioner redesign (Alfa Romeo SIB 16 03 22).
The AR 32104's primary reliability risk is timing chain tensioner wear on early builds, with elevated incidence in mixed urban-highway use. Internal Alfa Romeo quality reports from 2013 noted a significant share of pre-2009 engines requiring tensioner replacement before 150,000 km, while UK DVSA records link a notable portion of emissions-related MOT failures to lambda sensor degradation in high-mileage vehicles. Extended oil intervals and low-octane fuel increase thermal and mechanical stress, making oil quality and fuel specification adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Alfa Romeo technical bulletins (2009-2014) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about ALFA-ROMEO AR32104.
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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