The Alfa Romeo VM 84 A is a 2,445 cc, inline-four, turbocharged diesel engine produced between 1999 and 2003. 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 85 kW (116 PS) and 265 Nm of torque, primarily used in compact and mid-size Alfa Romeo platforms.
Fitted to models such as the Alfa Romeo 156 (932) and 166 (936), the VM 84 A 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 3 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 84/1999. This issue is typically associated with inadequate cooling system maintenance and use of non-OEM coolant. Later production units (post-2001) received revised head bolt torque sequences and upgraded thermostat units to improve thermal management.
Production years 1999–2003 meet Euro 3 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/8403).
The Alfa Romeo VM 84 A is a 2,445 cc inline-four turbocharged diesel engine designed for durability and reliability in compact applications (1999–2003). It combines indirect fuel injection with fixed-geometry turbocharging to deliver strong low-end torque. Engineered to meet Euro 3 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 | 85 kW (116 PS) @ 4,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 265 Nm @ 2,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Indirect injection (pre-chamber) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 3 | |
| 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 | 189 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-2001 models feature revised thermostat and head bolt torque; pre-2001 units should be inspected per Alfa Romeo SIB 84/1999. 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 84/1999). Compatible with MIL-STD 2104B.
Emissions: Euro 3 certification applies to all 1999–2003 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/8403).
Power Ratings: Measured under ECE R85 standards. Output consistent across EU fuel grades (CN > 48).
Alfa Romeo Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A24990, A24914, SIB 84/1999
VM Motori Engineering Archives: VMI-9901, V24-1230
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/8403)
European Commission Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
The Alfa Romeo VM 84 A was used across Alfa Romeo's 932/936 platforms with longitudinal mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced mounts in the 156 and shortened intake paths in the 166-and from 2001 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 A24907). The 7th VIN digit indicates engine type ('P' for VM 84 A). Pre-2001 models have a silver engine cover with '2.5 Diesel' badge; post-2001 units feature a black cover with updated branding. Critical differentiation from VM 32 B: VM 84 A uses revised ECU mapping and improved EGR flow; VM 32 B lacks updated emissions controls. Service parts require production date verification—thermostats before 06/2001 are incompatible with later revisions per Alfa Romeo SIB 84/1999.
The VM 84 A'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 2001 indicated a notable number of pre-2001 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 (1999–2003) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2000–2010). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about ALFA-ROMEO VM84A.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
Independent Technical Reference
EngineCode.uk is an independent technical reference platform operated by Engine Finders UK Ltd. We are not affiliated with ALFA-ROMEO or any other manufacturer. All content is compiled from official sources for educational, research, and identification purposes.
Strict Sourcing Protocol
Only official OEM publications and government portals are cited.
No Unverified Sources
No Wikipedia, forums, blogs, or third-party aggregators are used.
Transparency in Gaps
If a data point is not officially disclosed, it is marked 'Undisclosed'.
Regulatory Stability
EU regulations are referenced using CELEX identifiers for long-term stability.
ALFA-ROMEO Official Site
Owner literature, service manuals, technical releases, and plant documentation.
EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.
DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
UK type-approval authority for automotive products.
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
Type-approval guidance and documentation.
Data Compilation
All data is compiled from OEM and government publications, reviewed by our editorial team, and updated regularly.
Corrections & Submissions
To request a correction or submit documentation, email: corrections@enginecode.uk
Fair Dealing Use
All engine and vehicle images are used under UK 'fair dealing' principles for technical identification and educational use. Rights remain with their respective owners.
Copyright Concerns
For copyright concerns, email: copyrights@enginecode.uk
GDPR Compliance
EngineCode.uk complies with UK GDPR. We do not collect personal data unless explicitly provided.
Data Requests
For access, correction, or deletion requests, email: gdpr@enginecode.uk
Trademark Notice
All trademarks, logos, and engine codes are the property of their respective owners. Use on this site is strictly for reference and identification.
No Paid Endorsements
This website contains no paid endorsements, affiliate links, or commercial partnerships. We do not sell parts or services.
Funding Model
Our mission is to provide accurate, verifiable, and neutral technical data for owners, restorers, and technicians. This site is self-funded.
All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialALFA-ROMEO documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed“ .
All external links open in new tabs. Please verify current availability of resources.
