The Fiat 160 A2.000 is a 1,995 cc, inline-four, naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1993 and 2000. It belongs to Fiat's 2.0L SOHC engine family, designed for mid-size and executive sedans requiring refined performance and durability. Featuring an 8-valve single overhead camshaft layout and multi-point fuel injection (MPFI), it produces 76 kW (103 PS) at 5,400 rpm and 165 Nm of torque, delivering smooth, linear power ideal for highway cruising and sustained load applications.
Fitted primarily to the Fiat Tempra 2.0 and Fiat Croma 2.0, the 160 A2.000 was engineered for enhanced refinement and emissions compliance. It utilises a cast-iron block with an alloy head and a distributorless ignition system (DIS) with three coil packs. Emissions control is achieved through a three-way catalytic converter and oxygen sensor feedback, allowing all post-1993 models to meet Euro 1 standards, with select markets achieving early Euro 2 benchmarks.
One documented concern is premature wear of the hydraulic tappets, particularly in engines subjected to extended oil change intervals. This issue, highlighted in Fiat Service Information Bulletin 93/25, can lead to persistent valve train noise and reduced performance. Later production revisions (post-1996) introduced revised tappet design and improved oil filtration to reduce failure rates.

Production years 1993–1995 meet Euro 1 standards; 1996–2000 models comply with Euro 2 depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5684).
The Fiat 160 A2.000 is a 1,995 cc inline-four, SOHC petrol engine engineered for mid-size sedans and executive models (1993–2000). It combines multi-point fuel injection with a durable cast-iron block and alloy head to deliver smooth performance and improved emissions control. Designed to meet mid-to-late 1990s emissions standards, it balances mechanical simplicity with enhanced drivability over smaller variants.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,995 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded RON 95) | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, SOHC, 8-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 82.0 mm × 93.7 mm | |
| Power output | 76 kW (103 PS) @ 5,400 rpm | |
| Torque | 165 Nm @ 2,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi-point fuel injection (MPFI) | |
| Emissions standard | 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 SG | |
| Dry weight | 118 kg |
The naturally aspirated design provides smooth throttle response ideal for city and highway driving but requires regular fuel system servicing to maintain efficiency. SAE 10W-40 mineral oil meeting API SG standards is recommended with 12,000 km service intervals to ensure hydraulic tappet and camshaft lubrication. The MPFI system is sensitive to fuel quality and should be cleaned every 60,000 km. Hydraulic tappet wear is documented in Fiat SIB 93/25, particularly in engines with delayed oil changes. Post-1996 models feature improved tappet design for enhanced durability. Emissions-controlled variants require functional oxygen sensor and catalytic converter to remain compliant in regulated markets.
Oil Specs: Requires API SG-rated 10W-40 oil (Fiat SIB 93/25). No BMW Longlife or ACEA specifications apply.
Emissions: Euro 1 certification applies to 1993–1995 models; Euro 2 applies to 1996+ markets (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5684).
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. Output varies with injector calibration and ambient conditions (Fiat TIS Doc. A16003).
Fiat Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A16000, A16001, A16002, SIB 93/25
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5684)
ISO 1585:1996 Road vehicles — Test method for the measurement of fuel consumption
The Fiat 160 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 Tempra and modified exhaust routing in the Croma-and from 1996 the facelifted Tempra SX models adopted Euro 2-compliant emissions systems, 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 A16005). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('A' for 160 series). Pre-1996 models have chrome valve covers with side-mounted oil filler; post-1996 units use black plastic covers. Critical differentiation from 159 A5.046: 160 A2.000 uses a larger bore (82.0 mm vs 80.0 mm), distinct intake manifold, and hydraulic tappets. Service parts require model-year verification—tappets for pre-1996 units are not compatible with post-1996 revisions (Fiat SIB 96/18).
The 160 A2.000's primary reliability risk is hydraulic tappet wear on early builds, with elevated incidence in vehicles with irregular maintenance. Internal Fiat quality reports from 1994 noted a significant number of pre-1996 engines requiring tappet replacement before 130,000 km, while VCA field data indicates fuel system faults dominate emissions test failures in urban fleets. Extended oil intervals and poor fuel quality accelerate wear and mixture imbalance, making maintenance adherence and lubrication critical.
Analysis derived from Fiat technical bulletins (1993-2000) and UK VCA failure statistics (1995-1999). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FIAT 160-A2-000.
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