The Fiat 149 C2.046 – Petrol is a 1,108 cc, inline-four, naturally aspirated engine produced between 1988 and 1995. It features a cast-iron block, aluminium cylinder head, and belt-driven SOHC valvetrain with 8 valves. In standard tune, it delivers 38 kW (52 PS) at 5,250 rpm and 84 Nm of torque at 2,750 rpm, offering improved low-end responsiveness over earlier 149-series units.
Fitted to models such as the Fiat Uno 45 SX, Fiat Panda 4x4, and Fiat Regata Weekend, the 149 C2.046 was engineered for enhanced drivability and emissions compliance. It replaced the earlier 149 A7.000 with a longer stroke and revised combustion chamber design, improving torque output for urban and light off-road applications. Emissions control is achieved via a catalytic converter and lambda sensor, meeting early Euro 1 standards in all markets from 1989 onward.
One documented update is the introduction of a reinforced timing belt tensioner in 1991, addressing premature belt wear observed in early production batches. This improvement, detailed in Fiat Service Information Bulletin 89-14, reduced the incidence of belt slippage and valve interference. Post-1991 engines also feature revised valve stem seals to minimize oil consumption, enhancing long-term reliability across the fleet.
All units produced from 1989–1995 comply with Euro 1 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789). Pre-1989 models meet pre-Euro benchmarks.
The Fiat 149 C2.046 – Petrol is a 1,108 cc inline-four naturally aspirated engine designed for compact city and utility vehicles (1988–1995). It combines a carburetted fuel system with a single overhead camshaft to deliver improved torque and emissions compliance over its predecessor. Engineered for durability and ease of service, it supports both carburetted and early multipoint fuel-injected variants.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,108 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded RON 95) | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, SOHC, 8-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 66.0 mm × 81.0 mm | |
| Power output | 38 kW (52 PS) @ 5,250 rpm | |
| Torque | 84 Nm @ 2,750 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Weber 28/32 TDC carburettor or Magneti Marelli IAW 1AV fuel injection | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 1 (1989+); pre-Euro (1988) | |
| Compression ratio | 9.3:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Rubber toothed belt (SOHC, front-mounted) | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-40 API SG/CD | |
| Dry weight | 102 kg |
The longer stroke and revised head design provide improved low-RPM torque ideal for city driving and light load carrying, but require strict adherence to 30,000 km or 3-year cam belt replacement intervals to prevent interference damage. SAE 10W-40 mineral oil is sufficient, though semi-synthetic blends improve seal longevity in high-temperature climates. Carburettor-equipped models are prone to icing in damp conditions; fuel-injected versions offer better cold-start reliability. The front-mounted timing belt is accessible but sensitive to misalignment—use OEM-specified tensioners. Post-1991 models feature improved belt materials and tensioner geometry, reducing slippage risks. Emissions systems require lead-free fuel to avoid catalyst poisoning.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 10W-40 API SG/CD specification (Fiat SIB 89-14). No BMW Longlife or ACEA standards apply.
Emissions: Euro 1 compliance confirmed for 1989–1995 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789). Pre-1989 units meet pre-Euro standards.
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585. Output consistent across fuel grades RON 91–98 (Fiat TIS Doc. A15210).
Fiat Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A15100, A15120, SIB 89-14
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/6789)
ISO 1585:1996 Road vehicles — Engine test code — Net power
The Fiat 149 C2.046 – Petrol was used across Fiat's 146-series and 141-series platforms with transverse mounting and shared architecture with Lancia derivatives in select European markets. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake manifolds in the Uno and revised cooling routing in the Panda 4x4-and from 1989 the facelifted Regata incorporated a catalytic converter and lambda sensor, creating emissions-based interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the left-side engine block near the transmission bellhousing (Fiat TIS A15190). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('C' for 149 C2.046). Pre-1991 models have chrome valve covers with ribbed timing covers; post-1991 units use black plastic covers. Critical differentiation from 149 A7.000: 149 C2.046 has a longer stroke (81.0 mm), higher compression (9.3:1), and may feature fuel injection. Service parts require model-year verification—timing belts for pre-1991 engines are incompatible with post-1991 revisions due to pulley diameter and tensioner changes (Fiat SIB 89-14).
The 149 C2.046 – Petrol's primary reliability risk is timing belt failure on pre-1991 units, with elevated incidence in high-temperature climates. Internal Fiat quality reports from 1990 indicated a significant number of engines suffering valve damage due to belt slippage, while VCA field data links a portion of pre-1995 MOT failures to carburettor icing and idle instability. Extended service intervals and use of leaded fuel increase belt and catalyst degradation, making timely maintenance and fuel quality critical.
Analysis derived from Fiat technical bulletins (1988-1995) and UK DVSA failure statistics (1990-2000). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FIAT 149-C2-046.
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