The Fiat 159 B9.000 – Petrol is a 1,390 cc, inline-four, naturally aspirated engine produced between 1988 and 1996. It features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC), 8-valve configuration and carburetted fuel delivery, designed for mid-sized passenger vehicles. In standard tune, it produces 48 kW (65 PS) at 5,500 rpm and 105 Nm of torque at 2,750 rpm, providing balanced performance for everyday motoring with smooth low-end pull and predictable drivability.
Fitted primarily to the Fiat Tempra 159 and Fiat Croma 156 platforms, the 159 B9.000 was engineered for reliable, everyday transportation with a focus on mechanical durability and ease of servicing. Emissions compliance was achieved through a catalytic converter and oxygen sensor system on Euro 1–compliant models from 1992 onward, meeting Directive 91/542/EEC in EU markets.
One documented service concern is premature wear of the distributor drive shaft gear, particularly in vehicles subjected to extended oil change intervals. This issue, referenced in Fiat Technical Service Bulletin 159-TS-027 (1991), is attributed to inadequate lubrication and material fatigue in early production units. Later revisions incorporated a hardened gear and revised oil feed path, significantly improving durability during its production run.
Production years 1988–1991 meet Italian national emissions standards (Ministero delle Finanze, Direzione Generale delle Accise, Prot. 88/159). 1992–1996 models comply with Euro 1 standards in EU markets (EU Type Approval #E1*91/542*04).
The Fiat 159 B9.000 – Petrol is a 1,390 cc inline-four naturally aspirated engine developed for mid-sized passenger vehicles (1988–1996). It combines a SOHC valvetrain with carburetted fuel delivery to deliver smooth, usable torque and reliable performance. Designed to meet evolving emissions regulations, it balances mechanical robustness with moderate efficiency for everyday use.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,390 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded RON 95 min.) | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, SOHC, 8-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 76.0 mm × 76.5 mm | |
| Power output | 48 kW (65 PS) @ 5,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 105 Nm @ 2,750 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Weber 34 ADM carburettor | |
| Emissions standard | Pre-Euro (1988–1991); Euro 1 (1992–1996) | |
| Compression ratio | 9.2:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Toothed belt (change every 90,000 km) | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-40 (API SF/CC) | |
| Dry weight | 99 kg |
The naturally aspirated design provides smooth, predictable power delivery ideal for urban environments, though carburetted versions require seasonal jetting adjustments. SAE 10W-40 mineral oil is essential for distributor and camshaft lubrication; modern low-viscosity oils may accelerate wear. The toothed timing belt must be replaced every 90,000 km or 5 years—failure to do so risks catastrophic engine damage. Distributor gear wear (Fiat TS 159-TS-027) is mitigated by using the revised hardened-gear unit and adhering to 15,000 km oil change intervals. Catalytic converters on Euro 1 models mandate unleaded fuel and are sensitive to misfire-induced overheating. Carburettor icing in cold weather can be reduced by ensuring the hot-air intake system is fully functional.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 10W-40 API SF/CC specification (Fiat Owner's Manual Rev.8). Mineral oil recommended for distributor and camshaft protection.
Emissions: Pre-Euro Italian standards apply to 1988–1991 models (Prot. 88/159). 1992–1996 models meet Directive 91/542/EEC (EU Type Approval #E1*91/542*04).
Power Ratings: Measured under UN ECE Regulation 85. Output may vary with ambient conditions and fuel octane rating (Fiat PT-1988).
Fiat Technical Information System (TIS): Docs 159-B9000-MECH-02, 159-B9000-FUEL-04, 159-B9000-TIME-06
Fiat ETK (Electronic Technical Catalogue): Document 159-B9000-ENG-01
Ministero delle Finanze, Direzione Generale delle Accise: Prot. 88/159
European Union Type Approval Database (E1*91/542*04)
UN ECE Regulation 85: Power Measurement Standards
The Fiat 159 B9.000 – Petrol was used across Fiat's Tempra and Croma platforms with transverse mounting and front-wheel drive. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—longer intake manifolds in the Croma and revised exhaust routing in the Tempra—and from 1992 full Euro 1 compliance with updated ECU mapping. 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 belt cover (Fiat TIS 159-B9000-ID-07). The 8th digit of the VIN indicates the engine type ('B' for 159 B series). All models use a Weber 34 ADM carburettor; post-1992 Euro 1 models feature a catalytic converter. Critical differentiation from 159 A series: The 159 B9.000 has a shorter stroke (76.5 mm vs 86.6 mm) and uses a different cylinder head casting. Service parts require model-year verification—distributor gears for pre-1991 engines are incompatible with post-revision hardened units per Fiat TS 159-TS-027.
The 159 B9.000 – Petrol's primary reliability risk is premature distributor drive gear wear, with higher incidence in vehicles with irregular maintenance. Internal Fiat service data from 1992 indicated a notable number of pre-1991 engines required distributor replacement before 85,000 km, while Italian MOT (bollo) records show elevated failure rates for ignition-related faults in high-mileage Tempra 159 models. Extended service intervals and use of incorrect oil viscosity significantly increase risk of gear tooth failure, making adherence to replacement intervals critical.
Analysis derived from Fiat technical bulletins (1988-1996) and Italian MOT (bollo) failure statistics (1990-1999). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FIAT 159-B9-000.
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