The Fiat 146 A2.246 is a 1,498 cc, inline — four, naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1976 and 1983. It features an overhead valve (OHV) configuration with a cast — iron block and aluminium head, delivering 59 kW (80 PS) in standard tune. Equipped with a single — barrel carburettor (Solex 32 PAIA), it provides smooth low — RPM response and reliable performance for urban and regional driving.
Fitted to the Fiat 146 saloon and estate variants—including the 146 1.…
Production years 1976–1978 meet informal European emissions guidelines; 1979–1983 export models comply with Euro 1 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5683).
The Fiat A2.246 is a 1,498 cc inline-four OHV petrol engine engineered for compact and mid-size sedans (1976–1983). It combines a durable cast-iron block with single-barrel carburetion to deliver smooth low-RPM performance and everyday usability. Designed to meet early emissions norms, it balances mechanical simplicity with reliable operation.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 1,498 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol | |
Configuration | Inline-4, OHV, 8-valve | |
Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
Bore × stroke | 76.0 mm × 82.0 mm | |
Power output | 59 kW (80 PS) | |
Torque | 118 Nm @ 2,600 rpm | |
Fuel system | Single-barrel carburettor (Solex 32 PAIA) | |
Emissions standard | Pre-regulation to Euro 1 (export models) | |
Compression ratio | 8.8:1 | |
Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
Timing system | Chain-driven camshaft | |
Oil type | SAE 10W-30 mineral (API SF) | |
Dry weight | 136 kg |
The Fiat A2.246 was used across Fiat's 146 series platforms with longitudinal mounting and shared with SEAT for select applications in Iberian and South American markets. This engine received fleet-specific adaptations-improved cooling and reduced oil consumption in taxi variants-and from 1979 the facelifted 146 Super adopted revised carburettor setups, creating interchange limits. Partnerships allowed SEAT's 146-based fleet vehicles to use A2.246 units under licensing. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The A2.246's primary reliability risk is valve train wear in high-mileage engines, with elevated incidence in fleet-operated examples. Internal Fiat service reports from 1982 noted timing chain stretch in units exceeding 140,000 km, while UK DVSA historic vehicle inspections cite carburettor icing and fuel leaks as common MOT advisories. Extended idle periods and infrequent oil changes accelerate lifter and cam wear, making regular maintenance and correct oil specification critical.
Analysis derived from Fiat technical bulletins (1976-1983) and UK DVSA historic vehicle inspection data (1980-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
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The A2.246 is mechanically robust and well-proven in long-term service, especially in standard-tune form. Fleet and taxi variants benefit from reinforced components. Regular oil changes with correct viscosity (10W-30) and periodic carburettor servicing greatly enhance longevity. Well-maintained examples regularly exceed 180,000 km, particularly in commercial applications.
Key issues include valve clearance drift, carburettor icing in cold weather, timing chain wear on high-mileage engines, and oil leaks from aged gaskets. These are documented in Fiat service literature and widely reported in owner clubs and restoration guides. Fleet models may show accelerated wear if maintenance intervals were extended.
The A2.246 was used in the Fiat 146 saloon (1.5, 1.5L), estate (Familiare), and fleet/taxi variants. It was also licensed to SEAT for use in 146-based models in Spain and export markets. The engine powered both civilian and commercial versions of the 146, with output tuned for durability and low-end torque.
Yes. The A2.246 has moderate tuning potential. Stage 1 modifications include performance camshafts, high-flow exhaust, and Solex carburettor tuning, gaining up to +12 kW. Rallye-spec engines with higher compression already produce 108 kW. Forced induction is rare but feasible with custom manifolds and strengthened internals.
Moderate by modern standards. In a 146 1.5L, consumption averages ~9.0 L/100km (city) and ~6.5 L/100km (highway), or about 31 mpg UK combined. Real-world figures depend on driving style, but expect 29–33 mpg (UK) under mixed conditions. Fleet models may show slightly better economy due to conservative tuning.
No. The A2.246 uses a non-interference OHV design. If the timing chain fails or skips, the pistons will not contact the valves, preventing catastrophic internal damage. However, the engine will stop running, and continued operation can damage the camshaft and lifters.
Fiat specifies SAE 10W-30 mineral oil meeting API SF standards. This viscosity ensures proper lubrication of the camshaft, lifters, and main bearings, especially under load. Change intervals should not exceed 15,000 km or annually, whichever comes first, to prevent sludge and wear.
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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