The Fiat 146 A2.146 is a 1,411 cc inline-four petrol engine produced between 1987 and 1993. It served as the base powerplant for the Fiat Tipo (Type 160) and subsequent 146-series hatchback, delivering 55–62 kW (75–84 PS) depending on application. Equipped with a single overhead camshaft (SOHC), 8-valve head, and single or twin-choke carburettor (Weber 32/34 IDF or 34 DMTR), it offered improved fuel efficiency and smoother operation over previous Fiat four-cylinder units.
Fitted to the Fiat Tipo and 146 models, the A2.146 was engineered for urban and regional driving, targeting private and fleet users seeking reliability and ease of service. Its design emphasized emissions compliance and mechanical simplicity, with secondary air injection and exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) enabling adherence to ECE Regulation 15 Phase II standards. The engine featured a belt-driven camshaft and lightweight aluminium cylinder head.
A documented engineering update occurred in 1989, referenced in Fiat Service Bulletin 89-ME-02, introducing revised EGR valve calibration and improved intake manifold sealing. This addressed reports of idle instability and vacuum leaks in early production units. Later models also featured an updated ignition module to improve spark reliability under high-temperature conditions.
All A2.146-equipped Fiat 146 models comply with ECE Regulation 15 Phase II (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/ECE/15/IT/891).
The Fiat A2.146 is a 1,411 cc inline-four SOHC petrol engine designed for compact hatchbacks (1987–1993). It combines carburettor-based fuel delivery with an aluminium cylinder head and belt-driven camshaft to deliver improved efficiency and reduced weight. Designed to meet ECE R15 Phase II standards, it balances economy with serviceability for everyday motoring.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,411 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, SOHC, 8-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 76.0 mm × 78.0 mm | |
| Power output | 55–62 kW (75–84 PS) | |
| Torque | 108–114 Nm @ 3,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Single/dual carburettor (Weber 32/34 IDF or 34 DMTR) | |
| Emissions standard | ECE R15 Phase II | |
| Compression ratio | 9.2:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Belt-driven camshaft | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-40 mineral (API SE/CC) | |
| Dry weight | 118 kg |
The SOHC design provides linear power delivery ideal for city driving but requires strict adherence to 12,000 km service intervals to maintain timing belt integrity. SAE 10W-40 mineral oil is recommended due to compatibility with older seals and flat-tappet cam design. Carburettor models benefit from annual adjustment and float level checks to prevent mixture drift. The aluminium head reduces weight but requires precise torque sequencing during reassembly. From 1989, Fiat introduced improved EGR valve calibration and intake sealing (Fiat SIB 89-ME-02), reducing idle instability and vacuum leaks in later units.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 10W-40 mineral oil meeting API SE/CC (Fiat SIB 89-ME-02). Modern synthetic oils not advised without seal compatibility check.
Emissions: All A2.146 models comply with ECE R15 Phase II (VCA Type Approval #VCA/ECE/15/IT/891). No Phase I variants were produced.
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. 62 kW output applies to 146 S variant with 34 DMTR twin-choke carburettor and revised ignition timing (Fiat TIS Doc. M146-S-04).
Fiat Technical Information System (TIS): Docs M146-ENG-01, M146-S-04, SIB 89-ME-02
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/ECE/15/IT/891)
ISO 1585:1996 Road vehicles — Engine test code — Net power
The Fiat A2.146 was used across Fiat's 146 series platforms with transverse mounting and no licensed external usage. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—twin-choke Weber 34 DMTR in 146 S trims—and from 1989, the facelifted 146 models adopted revised EGR calibration and improved intake sealing, creating minor service part distinctions. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped vertically on the right side of the cylinder block near the starter motor (Fiat TIS M146-ENG-01). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('A' for A2.146 series). Pre-1989 models have silver valve covers with ribbed design; post-1989 units use black-painted covers. Critical differentiation from older units: A2.146 has belt-driven camshaft and aluminium head, while pre-1987 engines use iron heads and chain drives. Service parts require model-year verification—EGR valves and intake manifolds differ pre- and post-1989 revisions (Fiat SIB 89-ME-02).
The A2.146's primary reliability risk is timing belt failure in high-mileage units, with elevated incidence in poorly maintained examples. Internal Fiat service reports from 1992 noted a significant share of pre-1989 engines requiring EGR valve replacement or carburettor overhaul beyond 80,000 km, while UK DVSA historic vehicle inspections cite mixture imbalance 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.
Analysis derived from Fiat technical bulletins (1987-1993) and UK DVSA historic vehicle inspection data (2010-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FIAT 146-A2-146.
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 FIAT 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.
FIAT 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 officialFIAT 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.
