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 1.5 and 146 1.5L—the A2.246 engine was engineered for fuel efficiency and ease of maintenance. Its design prioritises mechanical simplicity and durability under everyday conditions. Emissions control is achieved via a positive crankcase ventilation (PCV) system, meeting informal European emissions guidelines during its production run.
One documented update occurred in 1979 with revised valve stem seals and an improved cooling system for fleet applications, as detailed in Fiat Technical Bulletin 79-MOT-06. This revision reduced oil consumption and enhanced thermal stability during sustained operation. Later models also featured a modified intake manifold to improve fuel atomisation, contributing to better drivability in stop-start traffic.
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 A2.246 provides smooth low-RPM performance ideal for city driving but requires regular valve clearance checks due to its OHV pushrod design. SAE 10W-30 mineral oil is recommended to ensure consistent camshaft and lifter lubrication, especially under frequent cold starts. Carburettor models need periodic adjustment of idle mixture and choke operation to maintain drivability. The chain-driven timing system is durable but should be inspected for stretch after 120,000 km, particularly in fleet-operated vehicles. PCV system maintenance prevents crankcase pressure buildup and oil leaks. Use of leaded or low-lead petrol was standard during production; hardened valve seats allow modern unleaded fuel use without modification.
Oil Specs: Requires API SF-rated mineral oil (Fiat SIB 79-MOT-06). Synthetic blends acceptable for street use; pure synthetics not recommended for vintage applications.
Emissions: Euro 1 certification applies to post-1979 export models only (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5683). Domestic Italian models followed national standards.
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. 59 kW output requires correct ignition timing and clean carburettor jets (Fiat TIS A2246-3).
Fiat Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A2246-1, A2246-2, A2246-3, SIB 79-MOT-06
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5683)
ISO 1585:1992 Road vehicles — Engine test code — Net power
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.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the right-side engine block near the transmission bellhousing (Fiat TIS A2246-80). The 6th VIN digit indicates engine type ('A' for A2.246 series). Pre-1979 models have chrome valve covers with single exhaust; post-1979 fleet variants use black valve covers with additional oil cooler lines. Critical differentiation from B2.000: A2.246 features a smaller bore and shorter intake manifold. Service parts require model-year verification - carburettor manifolds for pre-1978 models are incompatible with later fleet variants due to port layout changes (Fiat SIB 79-MOT-06).
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.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FIAT 146-A2-246.
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