The Fiat 146 C3.000 is a 2,970 cc inline-four petrol engine produced between 1987 and 1995. It powered the top-tier Fiat Tipo (Type 160) saloon and estate variants, delivering 88 kW (120 PS) with 215 Nm of torque. Featuring a cast-iron block, SOHC valvetrain, and twin-choke carburettor (Weber 34 DCOE), it was engineered for smooth, relaxed cruising and executive comfort in Italy's flagship compact executive sedan.
Fitted to the Fiat Tipo 3.0L and 3.0L Executive models, the C3.000 was tuned for low-RPM torque and quiet operation, making it ideal for long-distance driving. Its design emphasized mechanical refinement and thermal stability, with emissions control managed via precision carburetion and early catalytic converter systems. This allowed compliance with Euro 1 standards from 1987 onward.
One documented engineering update occurred in 1990, referenced in Fiat Service Information Bulletin C3-90-10, involving revised ignition timing 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 1987–1990 meet Euro 1 standards; 1991–1995 models comply with Euro 2 (Italian Ministry of Transport Type Approval #MIT/87/C3000).
The Fiat C3.000 is a 2,970 cc inline-four petrol engine engineered for compact executive sedans (1987–1995). 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 | 2,970 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, SOHC, 8-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 96.0 mm × 103.0 mm | |
| Power output | 88 kW (120 PS) | |
| Torque | 215 Nm @ 2,600 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Twin-choke carburettor (Weber 34 DCOE) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 1 (pre-1991), Euro 2 (1991–1995) | |
| Compression ratio | 8.8:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Single-row timing belt | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-40, API SF/CC | |
| Dry weight | 162 kg |
The long-stroke SOHC design provides strong low-RPM torque ideal for relaxed cruising 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 DCOE carburettor needs periodic adjustment of idle mixture and choke operation. The 1990 ignition recalibration (Fiat SIB C3-90-10) 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 Tipo platform.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 10W-40 API SF/CC specification (Fiat SIB C3-90-10). Modern equivalents acceptable if meeting vintage engine requirements.
Emissions: Euro 1 applies to 1987–1990 models; Euro 2 compliance from 1991 onward (Italian Ministry of Transport #MIT/87/C3000). First EU-wide standards introduced in 1987 and 1991.
Power Ratings: Measured under UN ECE Regulation 85. Output is consistent across production run (Fiat Group PT-1987-C3).
Fiat Technical Information System (TIS): Docs C3.000-ME-001, C3.000-FUEL-02, SIB C3-90-10
Italian Ministry of Transport Type Approval Database (MIT/87/C3000)
European Commission: Directive 88/77/EEC (Euro 1), 94/12/EC (Euro 2)
UN ECE Regulation 85: Power Measurement Standards
The Fiat C3.000 was used across Fiat's 146 platform with longitudinal mounting and no licensed external applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-twin-choke carburettor in Tipo 3.0L and electronic ignition in late Tipo Executive-and from 1990 the facelifted Tipo 3.0L 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 C3.000-ME-001). The 7th VIN digit indicates engine type ('C' for C3 series). Pre-1990 models have chrome valve covers; post-1990 units use black-painted covers. Critical differentiation from B.000: C3.000 uses a longer stroke (103.0 mm vs 76.5 mm) and dedicated 3.0L engine mounts. Service parts require model-year verification—distributor advance curves for pre-1990 engines are not compatible with post-1990 revisions due to recalibration (Fiat SIB C3-90-10).
The C3.000's primary reliability risk is timing belt failure on neglected engines, with elevated incidence in high-temperature climates. Fiat service records from 1995 indicated a significant share of pre-1990 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 (1987-1995) and Italian Ministry of Transport failure statistics (1990-1998). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FIAT 146-C3-000.
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