The Fiat 146 C6.000 is a 2,423 cc inline-six petrol engine produced between 1989 and 1995. It served as the top-tier naturally aspirated powerplant for the Fiat 146 executive hatchback, delivering 88–92 kW (120–125 PS) with smooth refinement and strong mid-range torque. Equipped with a single overhead camshaft (SOHC), 12-valve head, and twin-choke Weber 36 DOHC carburettor, it offered enhanced performance and cruising comfort over four-cylinder variants.
Fitted to the Fiat 146 Super and EL models, the C6.000 was engineered for balanced performance and long-distance comfort, targeting private and fleet users seeking a refined alternative to contemporary European sedans. Its design emphasized emissions compliance and mechanical durability, with exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) and secondary air injection enabling adherence to ECE Regulation 15 Phase II standards. The engine featured a chain-driven camshaft and robust iron-block construction.
A documented engineering update occurred in 1992, referenced in Fiat Service Bulletin 92-ME-04, 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 upgraded oil pump drive to reduce wear under sustained highway operation.
All C6.000-equipped Fiat 146 models comply with ECE Regulation 15 Phase II (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/ECE/15/IT/889).
The Fiat C6.000 is a 2,423 cc inline-six SOHC petrol engine designed for executive hatchbacks (1989–1995). It combines twin-choke carburettor fuel delivery with durable iron-block construction to deliver smooth power delivery and consistent reliability. Designed to meet ECE R15 Phase II standards, it balances drivability with serviceability for everyday motoring.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,423 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-6, SOHC, 12-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 84.0 mm × 90.0 mm | |
| Power output | 88–92 kW (120–125 PS) | |
| Torque | 172–178 Nm @ 2,600 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Twin-choke carburettor (Weber 36 DOHC) | |
| Emissions standard | ECE R15 Phase II | |
| Compression ratio | 9.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven camshaft | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-40 mineral (API SE/CC) | |
| Dry weight | 168 kg |
The inline-six configuration provides smooth power delivery ideal for relaxed cruising but requires adherence to 15,000 km service intervals to maintain timing chain and bearing health. SAE 10W-40 mineral oil is recommended for compatibility with older seals and chain tensioner design. Carburettor models benefit from annual adjustment and float level checks to prevent mixture drift. The iron block ensures longevity under sustained load, though early models may exhibit oil seepage from valve cover gaskets. From 1992, Fiat introduced improved EGR valve calibration and intake sealing (Fiat SIB 92-ME-04), reducing idle instability and vacuum leaks in later units.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 10W-40 mineral oil meeting API SE/CC (Fiat SIB 92-ME-04). Modern synthetic oils not advised without seal compatibility check.
Emissions: All C6.000 models comply with ECE R15 Phase II (VCA Type Approval #VCA/ECE/15/IT/889). No Phase I variants were produced.
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. 92 kW output applies to Super/EL variants with optimized ignition timing and intake tuning (Fiat TIS Doc. M146-SUP-08).
Fiat Technical Information System (TIS): Docs M146-ENG-03, M146-SUP-08, SIB 92-ME-04
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/ECE/15/IT/889)
ISO 1585:1996 Road vehicles — Engine test code — Net power
The Fiat C6.000 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 36 DOHC in Super trims—and from 1992, 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-03). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('C' for C6.000 series). Pre-1992 models have silver valve covers with ribbed design; post-1992 units use black-painted covers. Critical differentiation from four-cylinder units: C6.000 has inline-six configuration with longer engine bay footprint and uses Weber 36 DOHC carburettor. Service parts require model-year verification—EGR valves and intake manifolds differ pre- and post-1992 revisions (Fiat SIB 92-ME-04).
The C6.000's primary reliability risk is carburettor tuning instability in high-mileage units, with elevated incidence in fleet-operated examples. Internal Fiat service reports from 1994 noted a significant share of pre-1992 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 (1989-1995) 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-C6-000.
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