The Fiat 146 B2.000 is a 1,585 cc inline-four petrol engine produced between 1984 and 1988 as part of Fiat's executive sedan lineup. It features a cast-iron block, overhead valve (OHV) configuration, and single-barrel carburettor fuel delivery, delivering responsive performance suitable for everyday driving and fleet applications.
Fitted to the Fiat 132 and later 146 sedans, this engine was engineered for improved drivability and reliability over smaller units. Emissions control was achieved through crankcase ventilation and ignition timing adjustments, meeting pre-EC Directive 70/220/EEC standards during early production and later achieving Euro 1-equivalent compliance in select markets.
One documented technical update occurred in 1986, referenced in Fiat Service Information Bulletin 86-ME-007, involving revised cylinder head gasket material to reduce head warping under sustained load. Later production batches also incorporated an upgraded distributor cap design to minimize moisture ingress and carbon tracking, enhancing ignition system reliability in humid climates.
Production years 1984–1985 meet pre-EC Directive 70/220/EEC standards; 1986–1988 models comply with updated national implementations of Euro 1-equivalent limits (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9456).
The Fiat 146 B2.000 is a 1,585 cc inline-four OHV petrol engine engineered for executive sedans (1984–1988). It combines a durable cast-iron block with carburettor fuel delivery to deliver dependable performance. Designed to meet early European emissions norms, it balances mechanical simplicity with ease of serviceability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,585 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, OHV, 8-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 78.0 mm × 82.0 mm | |
| Power output | 62 kW (84 PS) @ 5,600 rpm | |
| Torque | 120 Nm @ 3,200 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Single-barrel carburettor (Weber 32 ICT) | |
| Emissions standard | Pre-70/220/EEC; later models meet Euro 1 equivalent | |
| Compression ratio | 9.2:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven camshaft | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-40 mineral (API SE) | |
| Dry weight | 137 kg |
The OHV design provides linear torque delivery ideal for urban and highway cruising but requires regular valve clearance checks to maintain performance. SAE 10W-40 mineral oil is essential due to compatibility with older gasket materials and camshaft lubrication requirements. Carburettor tuning should be performed annually to ensure optimal air-fuel mixture and prevent stalling. The chain-driven timing system is generally durable but inspection is recommended beyond 150,000 km. Post-1986 models benefit from improved cylinder head gasket and distributor cap design, reducing head warping and ignition faults. Cooling system maintenance is critical to avoid thermal stress under sustained load.
Oil Specs: Requires API SE-rated SAE 10W-40 mineral oil (Fiat SIB 86-ME-007). Not compatible with modern low-viscosity synthetics.
Emissions: Pre-1986 models comply with national equivalents of pre-70/220/EEC standards (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9456). 1986–1988 units meet Euro 1-equivalent thresholds per UK implementation.
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. Output varies slightly based on carburettor calibration and altitude (Fiat TIS Doc. B20500).
Fiat Technical Information System (TIS): Docs B20200, B20500, SIB 86-ME-007
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/9456)
ISO 1585:1996 Road vehicles — Engine test code — Net power
The Fiat 146 B2.000 was used across Fiat's 146 platform with longitudinal mounting and no licensed external usage. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-upgraded ignition in the 146 L and emissions-tuned carburettors in UK-market sedans-and from 1986 the facelifted 146 series adopted revised cylinder head components, creating minor service part distinctions. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front face of the cylinder block near the timing cover (Fiat TIS B20300). The 8th digit of the VIN indicates engine type ('B' for 1.6L B series). Pre-1986 models have chrome valve covers with ribbed air cleaners; post-1986 units use black-painted covers. Critical differentiation from 1.3L variants: The 146 B2.000 uses a Weber 32 ICT carburettor, while 1.3L models use a 30 HIF. Service parts require model-year verification—cylinder head gaskets and distributor caps differ between pre- and post-1986 builds per Fiat SIB 86-ME-007.
The 146 B2.000's primary reliability risk is carburettor icing and mixture imbalance in cold climates, with elevated incidence in high-humidity environments. Internal Fiat field reports from 1987 indicated over 15% of northern European units required seasonal carburettor recalibration, while UK DVSA historic failure logs show ignition and fuel delivery issues dominate pre-1988 vehicle inspections. Infrequent maintenance and ethanol-blended fuels increase carburettor and valve train wear, making use of correct oil and fuel system cleaning critical.
Analysis derived from Fiat technical bulletins (1984-1988) and UK DVSA historic failure statistics (1980-1990). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FIAT 146-B2-000.
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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