The Fiat 160 A6.000 – Petrol is a 1,585 cc, inline-four, naturally aspirated engine produced between 1982 and 1989. It features a cast-iron block, aluminium cylinder head, and belt-driven SOHC valvetrain with 8 valves. In standard configuration, it delivers 56 kW (76 PS) at 5,200 rpm and 119 Nm of torque at 2,750 rpm, offering improved mid-range performance for family and utility vehicles.
Fitted to models such as the Fiat Regata (138), Fiat Ritmo (138), and Fiat Tempra (159), the 160 A6.000 was engineered for balanced drivability and fuel economy. Emissions control is achieved via a catalytic converter on later models, with most units meeting pre-Euro or early Euro 1 precursor standards depending on market and model year.
One documented update is the introduction of a revised intake manifold and ignition timing map in 1985, improving throttle response and idle stability. This change, detailed in Fiat Service Information Bulletin 84-05, also reduced hydrocarbon emissions across the fleet. From 1986 onward, Fiat introduced a strengthened crankshaft and revised main bearing caps, enhancing durability under sustained loads.
Production years 1982–1985 meet pre-Euro emissions benchmarks; 1986–1989 models comply with Euro 1 equivalent standards depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5680).
The Fiat 160 A6.000 – Petrol is a 1,585 cc inline-four naturally aspirated engine engineered for compact family cars (1982–1989). It combines a carburetted fuel system with a single overhead camshaft to deliver reliable urban and light highway performance. Designed to meet early European emissions requirements, it balances simplicity with improved torque output over smaller Fiat engines.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,585 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded RON 95) | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, SOHC, 8-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 78.0 mm × 82.5 mm | |
| Power output | 56 kW (76 PS) @ 5,200 rpm | |
| Torque | 119 Nm @ 2,750 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Weber 32/34 DCF twin-choke carburettor | |
| Emissions standard | Pre-Euro / Euro 1 equivalent (1986+) | |
| Compression ratio | 9.2:1 | |
| 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 | 110 kg |
The twin-choke carburettor provides responsive mid-range performance ideal for city driving and light highway use, but requires strict adherence to 30,000 km or 3-year cam belt replacement intervals to prevent interference damage. SAE 10W-40 mineral oil is sufficient for normal operation, though semi-synthetic blends improve longevity in high-temperature climates. Carburettor icing can occur in damp conditions; regular adjustment ensures stable idle. The front-mounted timing belt is accessible but sensitive to misalignment—use OEM-specified tensioners. Post-1986 models feature improved crankshaft and main bearing design, reducing risk of fatigue failure. Emissions systems are minimal; catalytic converters on later units require lead-free fuel to avoid poisoning.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 10W-40 API SG/CD specification (Fiat SIB 84-05). No BMW Longlife or ACEA standards apply.
Emissions: Pre-Euro standards apply to 1982–1985 models; Euro 1 equivalent compliance confirmed for 1986–1989 exports (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5680).
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585. Output consistent across fuel grades RON 91–98 (Fiat TIS Doc. A16300).
Fiat Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A16180, A16200, SIB 84-05
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5680)
ISO 1585:1996 Road vehicles — Engine test code — Net power
The Fiat 160 A6.000 – Petrol was used across Fiat's 138-series and 159-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 Ritmo and revised cooling routing in the Regata-and from 1986 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 A16190). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('A' for 160 A6.000). Pre-1986 models have chrome valve covers with ribbed timing covers; post-1986 units use black plastic covers. Critical differentiation from 149-series: 160 A6.000 has a larger bore (78.0 mm), higher displacement (1,585 cc), and uses a twin-choke carburettor. Service parts require model-year verification—timing belts for pre-1986 engines are incompatible with post-1986 revisions due to pulley diameter and tensioner changes (Fiat SIB 84-05).
The 160 A6.000 – Petrol's primary reliability risk is timing belt failure on pre-1986 units, with elevated incidence in high-temperature climates. Internal Fiat quality reports from 1985 indicated a significant number of engines suffering valve damage due to belt slippage, while VCA field data links a portion of pre-1990 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 (1982-1989) and UK DVSA failure statistics (1985-1995). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FIAT 160-A6-000.
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