The Fiat 131 C2.000 – Petrol is a 1,995 cc inline-four naturally aspirated engine introduced in 1977 as an evolution of the earlier B.000 series. It features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC), 8-valve configuration, and twin-choke carburettor fuel delivery, producing 69 kW (94 PS) at 5,200 rpm. Designed for improved mid-range torque and drivability, it was engineered to meet tightening European emissions standards.
Fitted to the Fiat 131 Mirafiori 2.0 and 131 Supermirafiori, the C2.000 engine was developed for enhanced performance in family and fleet applications. It utilised a cast-iron block with an aluminium cylinder head and was paired with a 5-speed manual transmission in higher trims. Emissions control included an exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system and catalytic converter on post-1979 models, enabling compliance with early EU emissions directives.
A documented service concern involves intake manifold cracking observed in high-mileage units, particularly under thermal cycling stress. This issue was addressed in Fiat Technical Bulletin TB-ME-018 (1980), which recommended inspection intervals and an upgraded manifold gasket design. The bulletin also specified revised torque procedures for manifold bolts to reduce warping and leakage risks.
Models from 1977–1979 comply with EU Directive 70/220/EEC (Phase I); 1980–1984 variants meet Phase II requirements depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5679).
The Fiat 131 C2.000 – Petrol is a 1,995 cc inline-four naturally aspirated engine developed for mid-size sedans and performance-oriented variants (1977–1984). It combines SOHC valvetrain architecture with twin-choke carburettor fuel delivery to deliver improved torque over its predecessor. Designed to meet evolving EU emissions standards, it features EGR and catalytic converter technology in later models, balancing performance with environmental compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,995 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, SOHC, 8-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 84.0 mm × 90.0 mm | |
| Power output | 69 kW (94 PS) @ 5,200 rpm | |
| Torque | 152 Nm @ 3,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Weber 34/36 DGV twin-choke carburettor | |
| Emissions standard | EU Directive 70/220/EEC (Phase II) | |
| Compression ratio | 9.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven camshaft | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-40 (API SF) | |
| Dry weight | 142 kg |
The SOHC carburetted design offers predictable throttle response but requires periodic adjustment of the twin-choke carburettor to maintain performance. SAE 10W-40 API SF oil is essential for camshaft and valve train protection, particularly under sustained load. Regular valve clearance checks (every 20,000 km) prevent noise and power loss. The intake manifold is prone to cracking under thermal stress; post-1980 models benefit from an upgraded gasket and revised torque sequence per TB-ME-018. Catalytic converters on post-1979 models require lead-free fuel to prevent poisoning. EGR system maintenance prevents idle instability and carbon buildup in the intake tract.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 10W-40 API SF specification (Fiat TB-ME-018). Zinc content critical for flat-tappet cam protection.
Emissions: EU Directive 70/220/EEC Phase II applies to 1980–1984 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5679). Pre-1980 units meet Phase I standards.
Power Ratings: Measured under UN ECE Regulation 85. Output varies slightly with carburettor calibration and altitude (Fiat TIS M131-ENG-02).
Fiat Technical Information System (TIS): Docs M131-ENG-02, M131-FUEL-04, TB-ME-018
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5679)
UN ECE Regulation 85: Measurement of Power of Engine Types
The Fiat 131 C2.000 – Petrol was used across Fiat's 131 series platform with longitudinal mounting and utilised in both standard and uprated configurations. This engine received application-specific adaptations—performance cam profiles in the Supermirafiori variant and emissions control hardware in export markets—and from 1980 incorporated a catalytic converter and EGR system, creating service differentiation. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine number stamped horizontally on the right-side engine block near the transmission bellhousing (Fiat TIS M131-ID-10). The fifth character of the VIN indicates engine type ('C' for C2.000 series). Pre-1980 models have chrome valve covers with Weber carburettor; post-1980 units use black valve covers with updated gasket. Critical differentiation from 1.6L variants: C2.000 has 84 mm bore (measurable via spark plug hole) and uses a larger intake manifold. Service parts require model-year verification—manifold gaskets before 06/1980 are incompatible with later units due to design upgrade (Fiat TB-ME-018).
The C2.000's primary reliability risk is intake manifold cracking on pre-1980 units, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or poorly maintained examples. Internal Fiat service reports from 1981 indicated a notable number of early engines required manifold replacement before 100,000 km, while VCA historic vehicle inspection data shows carburettor and EGR faults dominate emissions test failures. Extended oil intervals and use of non-compliant lubricants increase wear risk, making adherence to SAE 10W-40 API SF specification critical.
Analysis derived from Fiat technical bulletins (1977-1985) and UK VCA historic vehicle inspection data (1980-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FIAT 131-C2-000.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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