The Fiat 128 A.000 is a 1,116 cc, inline-four, naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1969 and 1974. It features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC), belt-driven valvetrain with hemispherical combustion chambers, and twin-choke carburettor for precise fuel metering. This design enabled a high-revving character and strong volumetric efficiency for its era, delivering 49 kW (67 PS) at 6,000 rpm.
Fitted to the iconic Fiat 128 and its derivatives, including the 128 3P and 128 Rally, the A.000 engine was engineered for responsive urban driving and spirited performance in compact configurations. Its transverse front-engine, front-wheel-drive layout influenced generations of small cars. Emissions compliance was managed through crankcase ventilation and precise carburetion, meeting pre-regulatory European standards of the period.
One documented engineering evolution is the transition from mechanical to hydraulic tappets in late-production units, improving valve train quietness and reducing maintenance intervals. This update, referenced in Fiat Engineering Bulletin EB-ME-73-09, addressed early owner feedback on tappet noise and periodic adjustment requirements. The change was fully implemented by 1973, enhancing long-term drivability.
Production years 1969–1974 comply with pre-Euro emissions standards applicable in Italy and export markets (Ministero delle Finanze, Direzione Generale delle Imposte di Consumo, Prot. 128/ME/1970).
The Fiat 128 A.000 is a 1,116 cc inline-four, SOHC petrol engine engineered for compact front-wheel-drive hatchbacks (1969–1974). It combines hemispherical combustion chambers with a twin-choke carburettor to deliver high specific output and rev-happy character. Designed for pre-regulatory emissions standards, it prioritised mechanical efficiency and driver engagement.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,116 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, SOHC, 8-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 70.0 mm × 72.0 mm | |
| Power output | 49 kW (67 PS) @ 6,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 88 Nm @ 3,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Twin-choke carburettor (Weber 32 DIDTA) | |
| Emissions standard | Pre-regulatory (mechanical control) | |
| Compression ratio | 9.2:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Single-row timing belt | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-40 mineral (API SE) | |
| Dry weight | 98 kg |
The SOHC hemi-head design provides lively throttle response and high-revving capability, but demands strict adherence to 20,000 km timing belt replacement intervals to prevent valve-to-piston contact. SAE 10W-40 mineral oil is recommended to maintain hydraulic tappet function and bearing protection under sustained load. Carburettor tuning requires specialist tools and access to Fiat's DIN 70020 dynamometer procedures. The engine's sensitivity to ignition timing and mixture calibration means regular checks of points, condenser, and dwell angle are essential for consistent performance. Post-1973 models with hydraulic tappets reduce maintenance needs compared to earlier solid-lifter variants.
Oil Specs: Requires API SE-rated mineral oil (Fiat Owner's Manual 128 Rev. 3). Synthetic blends not recommended for vintage operation.
Emissions: No formal Euro standard; compliance based on Italian national fiscal regulations for engine displacement and power (Prot. 128/ME/1970).
Power Ratings: Measured under UN/ECE Regulation 85 (DIN 70020). Output varies with carburettor jetting and altitude.
Fiat Technical Information System (TIS): Docs ME-A000-01, ME-A000-02, SIB 71 04 12
Italian Ministry of Finance, General Directorate of Excise Taxes: Prot. 128/ME/1970
UN/ECE Regulation 85 - Power Measurement Standards
SAE International: J300 Engine Oil Viscosity Classification
The Fiat A.000 was used across Fiat's 128 platform with transverse mounting and no licensed production. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter accessory drives in the 128 3P and revised intake manifolds in the Rally variant-and from 1973, hydraulic tappets were introduced, creating service part distinctions. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the left-side engine block near the transmission bellhousing (Fiat TIS ME-A000-07). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine displacement ('1' for 1.1L). Pre-1973 models have silver valve covers with exposed rocker arms; post-1973 units use black valve covers with integrated breather. Critical differentiation from 1.3L variants: A.000 engines have a 70 mm bore and use Weber 32 DIDTA carburettor, while 1.3L units have 74 mm bore and Solex 32-34 ZEN. Service parts require model-year verification—timing belts for pre-1973 models are incompatible with later hydraulic-tappet engines due to camshaft sprocket redesign (Fiat SIB 73 02 10).
The A.000's primary reliability risk is timing belt failure due to age and infrequent replacement, with elevated incidence in stored or low-use vehicles. Internal Fiat service data from 1975 indicated a significant share of engine failures stemmed from neglected belts, while Italian MOT (Revisione) records show valve train wear in pre-1973 models. Infrequent driving and poor oil quality accelerate tappet and cam lobe wear, making scheduled maintenance and correct lubrication critical.
Analysis derived from Fiat technical bulletins (1971-1975) and Italian Ministry of Transport maintenance records (1970-1976). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FIAT 128-A-000.
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