The Alfa Romeo VM 07 B is a 2,445 cc, inline-four, turbocharged diesel engine produced between 1988 and 1993. It was developed by VM Motori in collaboration with Alfa Romeo, featuring indirect fuel injection and a single overhead camshaft (SOHC). In standard configuration, it produces 66 kW (90 PS) and 180 Nm of torque, primarily used in compact and mid-size Alfa Romeo platforms.
Fitted to models such as the Alfa Romeo 75 (930) and 33 (907), the VM 07 B was engineered for durable urban driving and reliable long-distance performance. Emissions compliance was achieved through exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) and optimized combustion tuning, allowing Euro 1 compliance across its production run for European markets.
One documented concern is cylinder head cracking under prolonged high-load operation, noted in Alfa Romeo Technical Bulletin 07/1990. This issue is typically associated with inadequate cooling system maintenance and use of non-OEM coolant. Later production units (post-1991) received revised head bolt torque sequences and upgraded thermostat units to improve thermal management.
Production years 1988–1993 meet Euro 1 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/0701).
The Alfa Romeo VM 07 B is a 2,445 cc inline-four turbocharged diesel engine designed for durability and reliability in compact applications (1988–1993). It combines indirect fuel injection with fixed-geometry turbocharging to deliver strong low-end torque. Engineered to meet Euro 1 standards, it balances commercial usability with acceptable drivability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,445 cc | |
| Fuel type | Diesel | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, SOHC, 8-valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged (IHI fixed-geometry) | |
| Bore × stroke | 93.0 mm × 90.0 mm | |
| Power output | 66 kW (90 PS) @ 4,200 rpm | |
| Torque | 180 Nm @ 2,200 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Indirect injection (pre-chamber) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 1 | |
| Compression ratio | 22.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | IHI RHF3 VJ22 | |
| Timing system | Belt-driven | |
| Oil type | SAE 15W-40, API CF-2 | |
| Dry weight | 185 kg |
The fixed-geometry turbo provides strong low-RPM torque ideal for city driving but requires strict adherence to 30,000 km service intervals to prevent turbo bearing and timing belt wear. SAE 15W-40 API CF-2 oil is essential to maintain lubrication under high thermal loads. Cold starts should be followed by gradual warm-up to ensure oil circulation to the turbocharger. Indirect injection leads to carbon buildup in pre-chambers; periodic cleaning is recommended. Post-1991 models feature revised thermostat and head bolt torque; pre-1991 units should be inspected per Alfa Romeo SIB 07/1990. The engine requires low-sulfur diesel meeting EN 590 standards to prevent injector coking.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 15W-40, API CF-2 specification (Alfa Romeo SIB 07/1990). Compatible with MIL-STD 2104B.
Emissions: Euro 1 certification applies to all 1988–1993 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/0701).
Power Ratings: Measured under ECE R85 standards. Output consistent across EU fuel grades (CN > 48).
Alfa Romeo Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A24880, A24912, SIB 07/1990
VM Motori Engineering Archives: VMI-8801, V24-1020
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/0701)
European Commission Regulation (EEC) No 3093/88
The Alfa Romeo VM 07 B was used across Alfa Romeo's 930/907 platforms with longitudinal mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced mounts in the 75 and shortened intake paths in the 33-and from 1991 received minor internal revisions to the cooling system, creating service part distinctions. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the right-side cylinder block, near the transmission bellhousing (Alfa Romeo TIS A24905). The 7th VIN digit indicates engine type ('M' for VM 07 B). Pre-1991 models have a silver engine cover with '2.5 Diesel' badge; post-1991 units feature a black cover with updated branding. Critical differentiation from VM 07 A: VM 07 B uses IHI turbocharger (IHI RHF3 VJ22), while VM 07 A uses Garrett unit. Service parts require production date verification—thermostats before 06/1991 are incompatible with later revisions per Alfa Romeo SIB 07/1990.
The VM 07 B's primary reliability risk is cylinder head cracking on early builds, with elevated incidence in mixed urban/highway driving. Internal Alfa Romeo quality reports from 1991 indicated a notable number of pre-1991 engines requiring head replacement before 150,000 km, while UK DVSA data shows injection pump failures as a frequent cause of MOT emissions failures. Short trip driving and delayed maintenance increase thermal stress, making coolant quality and interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Alfa Romeo technical bulletins (1988–1993) and UK DVSA failure statistics (1990–2000). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about ALFA-ROMEO VM07B.
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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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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