The Fiat 178 B7.045 – Petrol is a 1,581 cc, inline-four, naturally aspirated engine produced between 1993 and 1999. It features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC), 8-valve configuration and multipoint fuel injection, designed for mid-sized passenger vehicles. In standard tune, it produces 58 kW (79 PS) at 5,250 rpm and 123 Nm of torque at 2,750 rpm, providing balanced performance with smooth drivability and improved emissions control over carburetted predecessors.
Fitted primarily to the Fiat Tempra 159 and Fiat Croma 156 platforms, the 178 B7.045 was engineered for refined, everyday transportation with a focus on mechanical durability and emissions compliance. It met Euro 2 standards across its production run through the use of a three-way catalytic converter, oxygen sensor feedback loop, and Magneti Marelli IAW 8F engine management system.
One documented service concern is premature wear of the hydraulic tappets, particularly in vehicles subjected to extended oil change intervals. This issue, referenced in Fiat Technical Service Bulletin 178-TS-048 (1995), is attributed to oil sludge formation in the tappet galleries under high-temperature operation. Later production revisions incorporated improved oil gallery machining and updated tappet materials to enhance durability.
All production years (1993–1999) comply with Euro 2 emissions standards in EU markets (EU Type Approval #E1*94/12/03).
The Fiat 178 B7.045 – Petrol is a 1,581 cc inline-four naturally aspirated engine developed for mid-sized passenger vehicles (1993–1999). It combines a SOHC valvetrain with multipoint fuel injection to deliver smooth, usable torque and reliable performance. Designed to meet Euro 2 regulations, it balances mechanical robustness with moderate efficiency for everyday use.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,581 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded RON 95 min.) | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, SOHC, 8-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 76.0 mm × 86.6 mm | |
| Power output | 58 kW (79 PS) @ 5,250 rpm | |
| Torque | 123 Nm @ 2,750 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Magneti Marelli IAW 8F multipoint fuel injection | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 2 | |
| Compression ratio | 9.4:1 | |
| 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 | 104 kg |
The multipoint fuel injection system provides smooth, predictable power delivery ideal for urban environments. SAE 10W-40 mineral oil is essential for hydraulic tappet 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. Tappet noise (Fiat TS 178-TS-048) is mitigated by using the revised components and adhering to 15,000 km oil change intervals. Catalytic converters mandate unleaded fuel and are sensitive to misfire-induced overheating. Fuel injectors should be cleaned every 60,000 km to maintain idle stability and emissions compliance.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 10W-40 API SF/CC specification (Fiat Owner's Manual Rev.14). Mineral oil recommended for tappet and camshaft protection.
Emissions: Euro 2 certification applies to all models (1993–1999) (EU Type Approval #E1*94/12/03).
Power Ratings: Measured under UN ECE Regulation 85. Output may vary with ambient conditions and fuel octane rating (Fiat PT-1993).
Fiat Technical Information System (TIS): Docs 178-B7045-MECH-02, 178-B7045-FUEL-04, 178-B7045-TIME-06
Fiat ETK (Electronic Technical Catalogue): Document 178-B7045-ENG-01
European Union Type Approval Database (E1*94/12/03)
UN ECE Regulation 85: Power Measurement Standards
The Fiat 178 B7.045 – 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 full Euro 2 compliance from launch. 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 178-B7045-ID-07). The 8th digit of the VIN indicates the engine type ('B' for 178 B series). All models use Magneti Marelli IAW 8F multipoint fuel injection with a catalytic converter. Critical differentiation from 178 A series: The 178 B7.045 has a longer stroke (86.6 mm vs 76.5 mm) and uses a different cylinder head casting. Service parts require model-year verification—hydraulic tappets for pre-1995 engines are incompatible with post-revision units per Fiat TS 178-TS-048.
The 178 B7.045 – Petrol's primary reliability risk is premature hydraulic tappet wear, with higher incidence in vehicles with irregular maintenance. Internal Fiat service data from 1996 indicated a notable number of pre-1995 engines required tappet replacement before 80,000 km, while Italian MOT (bollo) records show elevated failure rates for valvetrain noise in high-mileage Tempra 159 models. Extended service intervals and use of incorrect oil viscosity significantly increase risk of tappet collapse and valve float, making adherence to replacement intervals critical.
Analysis derived from Fiat technical bulletins (1993-1999) and Italian MOT (bollo) failure statistics (1994-2000). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FIAT 178-B7-045.
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