The Fiat 185 A2.000 – Petrol is a 1,297 cc, inline-four, naturally aspirated engine produced between 1987 and 1995. It was developed as a durable, fuel-efficient powerplant for compact hatchbacks and light commercial vehicles. Featuring a single overhead camshaft (SOHC), 8-valve configuration, and multi-point fuel injection (MPFI), it delivered 44 kW (60 PS) at 5,250 rpm with 94 Nm of torque, offering improved drivability and emissions control over carburetted predecessors.
Fitted primarily to the Fiat Tipo 160 and Fiat Tempra 161 platforms, the 185 A2.000 – Petrol was engineered for balanced performance in urban and highway driving. Its emissions system met Euro 1 standards through a three-way catalytic converter and oxygen sensor, with lambda feedback enabling closed-loop fuel control. This allowed consistent combustion and reduced hydrocarbon output across driving conditions.
One documented reliability concern is premature wear of the timing belt tensioner bearing, highlighted in Fiat Technical Service Bulletin 89/05. This wear leads to belt slippage or misalignment, increasing the risk of valve-to-piston contact. From 1990 onward, Fiat introduced an upgraded tensioner with a sealed ball bearing to improve durability and reduce maintenance frequency.
All production years (1987–1995) comply with Euro 1 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7890).
The Fiat 185 A2.000 – Petrol is a 1,297 cc inline-four naturally aspirated engine engineered for compact passenger and commercial vehicles (1987–1995). It combines SOHC 8-valve architecture with multi-point fuel injection to deliver reliable, emissions-compliant performance. Designed for durability and serviceability, it balances modest output with long-term economy.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,297 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, SOHC, 8-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 76.0 mm × 71.5 mm | |
| Power output | 44 kW (60 PS) @ 5,250 rpm | |
| Torque | 94 Nm @ 3,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Magneti Marelli 4AF multi-point fuel injection | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 1 | |
| Compression ratio | 9.4:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Timing belt with automatic tensioner | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-40 (API SG/CD) | |
| Dry weight | 102 kg |
The MPFI system provides smooth throttle response and cold-start reliability but requires periodic fuel injector cleaning to prevent coking and imbalance. SAE 10W-40 mineral oil is specified, with 15,000 km service intervals sufficient under normal conditions. The timing belt must be inspected every 30,000 km and replaced every 60,000 km or 4 years due to tensioner wear documented in Fiat SIB 89/05. Ignition timing is controlled by the ECU but requires distributor cap and rotor replacement every 20,000 km. Emissions compliance depends on intact catalytic converter and oxygen sensor function; bypassing these systems invalidates type approval. The engine is longitudinally mounted and shares components with the 185-series diesel variants.
Oil Specs: Requires API SG/CD 10W-40 (Fiat SIB 89/05). No BMW Longlife or ACEA specifications apply.
Emissions: Euro 1 certification applies to all 1987–1995 builds (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7890). No market-specific variations.
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585. Output consistent across fuel grades due to closed-loop lambda control (Fiat TIS Doc. M185-03).
Fiat Technical Information System (TIS): Docs M185-01, M185-02, FUEL-185, SIB 89/05
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/7890)
ISO 1585:1996 Road vehicles — Test method for the measurement of fuel consumption
The Fiat 185 A2.000 – Petrol was used across Fiat's 160/161 platforms with longitudinal mounting and no licensed derivatives. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter accessory belts in the Tipo and revised air intake routing in the Tempra-and from 1990 the updated tensioner design per Fiat SIB 89/05 created interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped vertically on the right side of the cylinder block near the transmission bellhousing (Fiat TIS M185-04). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('D' for 185 A2.000 – Petrol). All models feature a black plastic intake manifold and a catalytic converter. Critical differentiation from 182 A4.000: 185 A2.000 has a 1,297 cc displacement and MPFI fuel system, while 182 A4.000 uses a 999 cc block and carburettor. Service parts require model-year verification—timing belts and tensioners for pre-1990 models are not interchangeable with post-1990 upgraded units (Fiat SIB 89/05).
The 185 A2.000 – Petrol's primary reliability risk is timing belt tensioner failure, with elevated incidence in high-mileage vehicles. Internal Fiat field reports from 1991 noted increased belt-related engine damage in southern European fleets, while UK DVSA historic data shows a notable share of pre-1990 emissions test failures linked to oxygen sensor faults. Infrequent servicing and use of low-quality fuel exacerbate injector and ignition issues, making belt maintenance and correct oil use critical.
Analysis derived from Fiat technical bulletins (1987-1995) and UK DVSA historic failure statistics (1988-1996). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FIAT 185-A2-000.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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FIAT Official Site
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EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.
DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
UK type-approval authority for automotive products.
Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.
VCA Certification Portal
Type-approval guidance and documentation.
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