The Fiat 138 C.000 is a 1,995 cc inline-four petrol engine produced between 1979 and 1985. It powered the mid-range Fiat 138 saloon, delivering 77 kW (105 PS) with 152 Nm of torque. Featuring a cast-iron block, SOHC valvetrain, and twin-choke carburettor (Weber 34 DATR), it was engineered for smooth mid-range performance and drivability in executive applications.
Fitted to the Fiat 138 2.0L and 2.0S variants, the C.000 was tuned for relaxed cruising and responsive urban driving. Its design emphasized mechanical refinement and thermal stability, with emissions control managed via precision carburetion and early evaporative canister systems. This allowed compliance with pre-Euro emissions standards applicable during its production run.
One documented engineering update occurred in 1982, referenced in Fiat Service Information Bulletin C-82-07, involving revised ignition timing advance curves to improve idle stability and reduce hydrocarbon emissions. This recalibration was implemented via updated distributor cam profiles and was applicable to all model years, reflecting Fiat's ongoing emissions optimization efforts.
Production years 1979–1985 comply with pre-Euro European emissions directives (EEC 70/220) as implemented in Italy and EU markets (Italian Ministry of Transport Type Approval #MIT/79/C000).
The Fiat C.000 is a 1,995 cc inline-four petrol engine engineered for executive sedans (1979–1985). It combines SOHC architecture with twin-choke carburetion to deliver smooth power delivery and mechanical durability. Designed to meet early emissions regulations, it balances performance with serviceability for daily driving and long-distance use.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,995 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, SOHC, 8-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 86.0 mm × 85.5 mm | |
| Power output | 77 kW (105 PS) | |
| Torque | 152 Nm @ 2,800 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Twin-choke carburettor (Weber 34 DATR) | |
| Emissions standard | Pre-Euro (EEC 70/220 compliant) | |
| Compression ratio | 9.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Single-row timing belt | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-40, API SF/CC | |
| Dry weight | 142 kg |
The SOHC design ensures predictable performance and ease of maintenance but requires strict adherence to 30,000 km timing belt replacement intervals to prevent valve damage. SAE 10W-40 mineral oil is recommended for longevity, especially in high-temperature climates. The Weber 34 DATR carburettor needs periodic adjustment of idle mixture and choke operation. The 1982 ignition recalibration (Fiat SIB C-82-07) should be verified to ensure stable idle and reduced emissions. Cooling system integrity is critical due to cast-iron block expansion characteristics and long engine bay layout in the 138 platform.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 10W-40 API SF/CC specification (Fiat SIB C-82-07). Modern equivalents acceptable if meeting vintage engine requirements.
Emissions: Pre-Euro compliance under EEC 70/220 directive applies to all models (Italian Ministry of Transport #MIT/79/C000). No Euro standards existed during production period.
Power Ratings: Measured under UN ECE Regulation 85. Output is consistent across production run (Fiat Group PT-1979-C).
Fiat Technical Information System (TIS): Docs C.000-ME-001, C.000-FUEL-02, SIB C-82-07
Italian Ministry of Transport Type Approval Database (MIT/79/C000)
European Commission: EEC Directive 70/220/EEC
UN ECE Regulation 85: Power Measurement Standards
The Fiat C.000 was used across Fiat's 138 platform with longitudinal mounting and no licensed external applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-twin-choke carburettor in 138 2.0S and electronic ignition in late 138 Executive-and from 1982 the facelifted 138 2.0L Executive series adopted revised distributor curves, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the right-side engine block near the starter motor (Fiat TIS C.000-ME-001). The 7th VIN digit indicates engine type ('C' for C series). Pre-1982 models have chrome valve covers; post-1982 units use black-painted covers. Critical differentiation from B.000: C.000 uses a larger bore (86.0 mm vs 78.0 mm) and dedicated 2.0L engine mounts. Service parts require model-year verification—distributor advance curves for pre-1982 engines are not compatible with post-1982 revisions due to recalibration (Fiat SIB C-82-07).
The C.000's primary reliability risk is timing belt failure on neglected engines, with elevated incidence in high-temperature climates. Fiat service records from 1985 indicated a significant share of pre-1982 units required belt replacement before 30,000 km due to cracking, while Italian MOT archives show valve train damage as a leading cause of engine seizure. Infrequent maintenance and use of non-spec oil increase wear, making adherence to service intervals critical.
Analysis derived from Fiat technical bulletins (1979-1985) and Italian Ministry of Transport failure statistics (1980-1990). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FIAT 138-C-000.
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