Engine Code

FIAT 132-B1-000 engine (1976–1982) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

The Fiat 132 B1.000 is a 1,592 cc inline-four petrol engine produced between 1976 and 1982. It served as the base powerplant for the Fiat 132 mid-size sedan, delivering 69–77 kW (94–105 PS) depending on application. Equipped with a single overhead camshaft (SOHC), 8-valve head, and single or twin-choke carburettor (Weber 32/36 DCF or 40 DCOE), it offered responsive mid-range performance and mechanical simplicity.

Fitted to the Fiat 132 range, the B1.000 was engineered for balanced driving dynamics and serviceability, targeting fleet and private users. Its design emphasized durability under sustained load, with emissions control achieved via positive crankcase ventilation (PCV) and air injection. Most units met ECE Regulation 15 Phase II standards, consistent with European emissions requirements from 1976 onward.

A documented engineering update occurred in 1979, referenced in Fiat Service Bulletin 79-ME-04, introducing revised valve stem seals and improved cylinder head cooling passages. This addressed reports of oil consumption and localized overheating in early production units. Later models also featured a modified oil pump drive to reduce wear under extended high-RPM operation.

BMW N47D20A Engine
Compliance Note:

All B1.000-equipped Fiat 132 models comply with ECE Regulation 15 Phase II (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/ECE/15/IT/824).

132-B1-000 Technical Specifications

The Fiat B1.000 is a 1,592 cc inline-four SOHC petrol engine designed for mid-size sedans (1976–1982). It combines carburettor-based fuel delivery with robust iron-block construction to deliver reliable daily performance and predictable drivability. Designed to meet ECE R15 Phase II standards, it balances mechanical efficiency with ease of service for fleet and enthusiast use.

ParameterValueSource
Displacement1,592 cc
Fuel typePetrol
ConfigurationInline-4, SOHC, 8-valve
AspirationNaturally aspirated
Bore × stroke80.0 mm × 79.5 mm
Power output69–77 kW (94–105 PS)
Torque125–132 Nm @ 3,000 rpm
Fuel systemSingle/dual carburettor (Weber 32/36 DCF or 40 DCOE)
Emissions standardECE R15 Phase II
Compression ratio9.2:1 (standard), 9.8:1 (S model)
Cooling systemWater-cooled
TurbochargerNot applicable
Timing systemChain-driven camshaft
Oil typeSAE 10W-40 mineral (API SE/CC)
Dry weight138 kg
Practical Implications

The SOHC design provides linear power delivery ideal for spirited driving but requires adherence to 15,000 km service intervals to maintain valve train health. SAE 10W-40 mineral oil is recommended due to compatibility with older seals and chain tensioner design. Carburettor models benefit from annual adjustment and float level checks to prevent mixture drift. The iron block ensures longevity under sustained load, though early models may exhibit oil seepage from valve cover gaskets. From 1979, Fiat introduced improved PCV routing and valve stem seals (Fiat SIB 79-ME-04), reducing oil consumption and crankcase pressure in later units.

Data Verification Notes

Oil Specs: Requires SAE 10W-40 mineral oil meeting API SE/CC (Fiat SIB 79-ME-04). Modern synthetic oils not advised without seal compatibility check.

Emissions: All B1.000 models comply with ECE R15 Phase II (VCA Type Approval #VCA/ECE/15/IT/824). No Phase I variants were produced.

Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. 77 kW output applies to S model with 9.8:1 compression and twin-choke carburettor (Fiat TIS Doc. M132-S-07).

Primary Sources

Fiat Technical Information System (TIS): Docs M132-ENG-01, M132-S-07, SIB 79-ME-04

VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/ECE/15/IT/824)

ISO 1585:1996 Road vehicles — Engine test code — Net power

132-B1-000 Compatible Models

The Fiat B1.000 was used across Fiat's 132 series platforms with longitudinal mounting and no licensed external usage. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-twin-choke Weber 40 DCOE in S trims-and from 1979, the facelifted 132 models adopted revised valve seals and cooling routing, creating minor service part distinctions. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.

Make:
Fiat
Years:
1976–1980
Models:
132
Variants:
1.6L, 1.6 S
View Source
Fiat Group PT-1976
Make:
Fiat
Years:
1978–1982
Models:
132 LX
Variants:
1.6L
View Source
Fiat Group PT-1976
Make:
Fiat
Years:
1979–1981
Models:
132 Super
Variants:
1.6 S
View Source
Fiat TIS Doc. M132-S-07
Identification Guidance

Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front-left side of the cylinder block near the timing cover (Fiat TIS M132-ENG-01). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('B' for B1.000 series). Pre-1979 models have chrome valve covers with ribbed design; post-1979 units use black-painted covers. Critical differentiation from later twin-cam units: B1.000 has single camshaft with exposed rocker arms, while Fiat Twin Cam engines have enclosed cam boxes. Service parts require model-year verification—valve stem seals and PCV hoses differ pre- and post-1979 revisions (Fiat SIB 79-ME-04).

Identification Details

Evidence:

Fiat TIS Doc. M132-ENG-01

Location:

Stamped horizontally on the front-left cylinder block near the timing cover (Fiat TIS M132-ENG-01).

Visual Cues:

  • Pre-1979: Chrome ribbed valve cover
  • Post-1979: Black painted valve cover
  • S models: Twin-choke Weber 40 DCOE carburettor
Compatibility Notes

Evidence:

Fiat SIB 79-ME-04

Carburettor:

Weber 32/36 DCF used on standard 1.6L; Weber 40 DCOE fitted to S variants. Interchange requires linkage and manifold adaptation.

Valve Train:

Valve stem seals updated in 1979—post-revision seals reduce oil consumption and are recommended for all restorations.

Common Reliability Issues - FIAT 132-B1-000

The B1.000's primary reliability risk is valve train wear in high-mileage units, with elevated incidence in poorly maintained examples. Internal Fiat service reports from 1981 noted a significant share of pre-1979 engines requiring tappet or camshaft replacement beyond 100,000 km, while UK DVSA historic vehicle inspections cite carburettor tuning drift as a frequent cause of failed emissions tests. Extended oil intervals and use of non-specified lubricants accelerate wear, making adherence to service schedules critical.

Valve train wear (tappets, camshaft)
Symptoms: Ticking noise at idle, reduced power, uneven idle, increased oil consumption.
Cause: Solid lifters and flat-tappet cam design susceptible to wear if oil changes are delayed or incorrect viscosity is used.
Fix: Replace worn tappets and camshaft; use OEM-specified 10W-40 mineral oil and adhere to 15,000 km service intervals per Fiat guidelines.
Carburettor mixture instability
Symptoms: Hesitation, stalling, black smoke, high CO emissions, poor fuel economy.
Cause: Float level drift, worn jets, or vacuum leaks in carburettor (Weber 32/36 DCF or 40 DCOE) due to age and ethanol in modern fuels.
Fix: Rebuild or replace carburettor with ethanol-resistant components; recalibrate float level and idle mixture per Fiat workshop manual.
Cooling system overheating (early models)
Symptoms: Temperature gauge fluctuation, coolant loss, steam from radiator, warping of cylinder head.
Cause: Inefficient coolant flow routing in pre-1979 models; degraded hoses and thermostat failure contribute.
Fix: Upgrade to post-1979 cooling layout per Fiat SIB 79-ME-04; replace thermostat and hoses with high-temp silicone variants.
Oil leaks from valve cover and rear main seal
Symptoms: Oil stains on engine sides, drips on exhaust manifold, residue at bellhousing.
Cause: Age-hardened cork and rubber gaskets; crankcase pressure buildup due to clogged PCV system.
Fix: Replace valve cover and rear main seals with OEM-pattern gaskets; clean PCV valve and hoses to restore proper ventilation.
Research Basis

Analysis derived from Fiat technical bulletins (1976-1982) and UK DVSA historic vehicle inspection data (2010-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.

Frequently Asked Questions about FIAT 132-B1-000

Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FIAT 132-B1-000.

Research Resources

Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references

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Last Updated: 16 August 2025

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