The Fiat 156 A2.000 is a 1,581 cc, inline-four, naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1988 and 1999. It belongs to Fiat's second-generation SOHC engine family, designed for compact and mid-size vehicles requiring improved refinement and durability. Featuring an 8-valve single overhead camshaft layout and a Weber twin-choke carburettor, it produces 59 kW (80 PS) at 5,750 rpm and 121 Nm of torque, offering smooth performance for everyday driving in urban and highway conditions.
Fitted primarily to the Fiat Tipo 1.6 and later versions of the Fiat Tempra, the 156 A2.000 was engineered to deliver enhanced drivability and reduced mechanical noise over earlier 1.3L and 1.4L units. It utilises a distributor-based ignition system and a cast-iron block with an alloy head. Emissions control is achieved through an air injection system and catalytic converter on Euro 1- and Euro 2-compliant models, meeting evolving European emissions standards introduced from 1992 onward.
One documented concern is cylinder head warping under prolonged overheating, particularly in vehicles with neglected cooling system maintenance. This issue, referenced in Fiat Service Information Bulletin 88/15, can lead to head gasket failure and loss of compression. Later production revisions (post-1994) introduced a revised head bolt torque sequence and improved thermostat design to reduce thermal stress.
Production years 1988–1992 meet pre-Euro emissions benchmarks; 1993–1999 models comply with Euro 1 or Euro 2 standards depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5681).
The Fiat 156 A2.000 is a 1,581 cc inline-four, SOHC petrol engine engineered for compact and mid-size hatchbacks and sedans (1988–1999). It combines a carburetted fuel system with a durable cast-iron block and alloy head to deliver refined everyday performance. Designed to meet early to mid-1990s emissions standards, it balances mechanical simplicity with enhanced drivability over smaller variants.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,581 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded RON 95) | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, SOHC, 8-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 76.0 mm × 86.6 mm | |
| Power output | 59 kW (80 PS) @ 5,750 rpm | |
| Torque | 121 Nm @ 3,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Weber 34 IAN 4 carburettor | |
| Emissions standard | Pre-Euro / Euro 1 / Euro 2 (catalyst models) | |
| Compression ratio | 9.4:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven (single-row, non-adjustable) | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-40, API SF | |
| Dry weight | 110 kg |
The naturally aspirated design provides smooth throttle response ideal for city driving but requires regular carburettor servicing to maintain efficiency. SAE 10W-40 mineral oil meeting API SF standards is recommended with 12,000 km service intervals to ensure timing chain and camshaft lubrication. The Weber 34 IAN 4 carburettor is sensitive to fuel quality and should be inspected or rebuilt every 40,000 km. Cylinder head warping is documented in Fiat SIB 88/15, particularly in engines with neglected coolant changes. Post-1994 models feature improved thermal management for enhanced durability. Emissions-controlled variants require functional air injection and catalytic converters to remain compliant in regulated markets.
Oil Specs: Requires API SF-rated 10W-40 oil (Fiat SIB 88/15). No BMW Longlife or ACEA specifications apply.
Emissions: Euro 1 certification applies to catalyst-equipped models from 1993; Euro 2 applies to select 1996+ markets (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5681). Pre-1993 units are pre-regulatory.
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. Output varies with carburettor calibration and ambient conditions (Fiat TIS Doc. A15603).
Fiat Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A15600, A15601, A15602, SIB 88/15
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5681)
ISO 1585:1996 Road vehicles — Test method for the measurement of fuel consumption
The Fiat 156 A2.000 – Petrol was used across Fiat's 156 and 138 platforms with transverse mounting and no licensed external applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-revised intake manifolds in the Tipo and modified exhaust routing in the Tempra-and from 1993 the facelifted Tipo SX models adopted a catalytic converter and lambda sensor, creating interchange limits. 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 A15605). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('A' for 156 series). Pre-1994 models have chrome valve covers with side-mounted oil filler; post-1994 units use black plastic covers. Critical differentiation from 154 A1.000: 156 A2.000 uses a larger bore (76.0 mm vs 73.0 mm), Weber 34 IAN 4 carburettor, and distinct exhaust manifold. Service parts require model-year verification—catalyst-equipped variants (1993+) are not compatible with pre-cat exhaust manifolds (Fiat SIB 93/06).
The 156 A2.000's primary reliability risk is cylinder head warping on early builds, with elevated incidence in vehicles with irregular cooling system maintenance. Internal Fiat quality reports from 1990 noted a significant number of pre-1994 engines requiring head replacement before 110,000 km, while VCA field data indicates carburettor-related failures dominate emissions test failures in urban fleets. Extended oil intervals and poor fuel quality accelerate wear and mixture imbalance, making maintenance adherence and thermal management critical.
Analysis derived from Fiat technical bulletins (1988-1999) and UK VCA failure statistics (1990-1998). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FIAT 156-A2-000.
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