The Fiat 263 A8.000 is a 1,998 cc, inline-four, naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2001 and 2007. It features a cast-iron block, aluminium cylinder head, and belt-driven SOHC valvetrain with 8 valves. In standard tune, it produces 88 kW (120 PS) at 5,500 rpm and 170 Nm of torque at 3,500 rpm, delivering smooth performance for mid-size passenger vehicles during the early 2000s.
Fitted to core Fiat models including the Marea (185), Palio (178), and Stilo (188), the 263 A8.000 was engineered for improved refinement, fuel efficiency, and emissions compliance over earlier units. It utilised sequential multipoint fuel injection (Magneti Marelli IAW 59) and a three-way catalytic converter to meet Euro 3 standards (Directive 98/69/EC), with closed-loop lambda control ensuring stable idle and low hydrocarbon emissions.
One documented service concern is premature camshaft belt wear, particularly in high-temperature climates or vehicles with extended service intervals. This issue was addressed in Fiat Service Information Bulletin 01-14, which reinforced replacement intervals and specified updated belt material. Later production units (post-2004) incorporated a revised automatic tensioner design and improved coolant routing, reducing thermal stress on the timing cover.
All production models meet Euro 3 emissions standards (Directive 98/69/EC, VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9012).
The Fiat 263 A8.000 is a 1,998 cc inline-four, naturally aspirated petrol engine designed for compact and mid-size passenger vehicles (2001–2007). It combines SOHC valvetrain architecture with sequential multipoint fuel injection to deliver smooth, responsive performance. Designed to meet Euro 3 emissions standards, it balances drivability with improved serviceability over earlier units.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,998 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, SOHC, 8-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 87.0 mm × 83.6 mm | |
| Power output | 88 kW (120 PS) @ 5,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 170 Nm @ 3,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Magneti Marelli IAW 59 sequential multipoint injection | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 3 | |
| Compression ratio | 9.8:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Rubber toothed belt (SOHC, front-mounted) | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-40, API SL | |
| Dry weight | 142 kg |
The SOHC 8-valve design offers predictable performance and ease of maintenance but requires strict adherence to 60,000 km cam belt replacement intervals to prevent valve damage. Use of SAE 10W-40 oil meeting API SL standards ensures adequate valve train lubrication under sustained load. Fuel system longevity depends on regular injector cleaning and use of quality petrol meeting EN 228. Post-2004 models benefit from a revised automatic belt tensioner and coolant routing; pre-2004 units should be inspected per Fiat SIB 01-14. Lambda sensor degradation is common beyond 120,000 km, leading to increased fuel consumption if not replaced.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 10W-40, API SL specification (Fiat SIB 01-14). Compatible with ACEA A3/B3 standards.
Emissions: Euro 3 certification applies to all models (2001–2007) under Directive 98/69/EC (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9012).
Power Ratings: Measured under ECE R85. Output varies slightly based on ignition timing and air filter condition (Fiat TIS Doc. A26318).
Fiat Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A26301, A26318, SIB 01-14
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/9012)
EU Directive 98/69/EC: Amendments to Emissions Standards
The Fiat 263 A8.000 was used across Fiat's Marea/Stilo platforms with transverse mounting and shared architecture with Lancia variants. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—reinforced mounts in the Marea and revised intake manifolds in the Stilo—and from 2004 the facelifted Stilo Active used a revised ECU mapping and secondary air injection, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front-facing side of the cylinder block, near the exhaust manifold (Fiat TIS A26305). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('H' for 263 A8.000 series). Pre-2004 models have a black plastic intake manifold with a round airbox; post-2004 units use a revised rectangular plenum. Critical differentiation from diesel variants: Petrol 263 A8.000 uses a red-painted fuel rail and Magneti Marelli IAW 59 ECU, while diesel units (263 D8.000) have a black fuel rail and Bosch injection system. Service parts require model-year verification—cam belts for pre-2004 models are not compatible with later automatic tensioner units (Fiat SIB 01-14).
The 263 A8.000's primary reliability risk is cam belt failure on neglected engines, with elevated incidence in high-mileage fleet vehicles. Internal Fiat service data from 2003 indicated a significant share of pre-2004 engines suffering belt-related damage beyond 75,000 km, while UK DVSA records show timing-related failures as a leading cause of MOT rejection for classic models. Extended service intervals and aftermarket non-compliant belts increase risk, making adherence to replacement schedules critical.
Analysis derived from Fiat technical bulletins (2001-2007) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2002-2012). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FIAT 263-A8-000.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
Independent Technical Reference
EngineCode.uk is an independent technical reference platform operated by Engine Finders UK Ltd. We are not affiliated with FIAT or any other manufacturer. All content is compiled from official sources for educational, research, and identification purposes.
Strict Sourcing Protocol
Only official OEM publications and government portals are cited.
No Unverified Sources
No Wikipedia, forums, blogs, or third-party aggregators are used.
Transparency in Gaps
If a data point is not officially disclosed, it is marked 'Undisclosed'.
Regulatory Stability
EU regulations are referenced using CELEX identifiers for long-term stability.
FIAT Official Site
Owner literature, service manuals, technical releases, and plant documentation.
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.
Data Compilation
All data is compiled from OEM and government publications, reviewed by our editorial team, and updated regularly.
Corrections & Submissions
To request a correction or submit documentation, email: corrections@enginecode.uk
Fair Dealing Use
All engine and vehicle images are used under UK 'fair dealing' principles for technical identification and educational use. Rights remain with their respective owners.
Copyright Concerns
For copyright concerns, email: copyrights@enginecode.uk
GDPR Compliance
EngineCode.uk complies with UK GDPR. We do not collect personal data unless explicitly provided.
Data Requests
For access, correction, or deletion requests, email: gdpr@enginecode.uk
Trademark Notice
All trademarks, logos, and engine codes are the property of their respective owners. Use on this site is strictly for reference and identification.
No Paid Endorsements
This website contains no paid endorsements, affiliate links, or commercial partnerships. We do not sell parts or services.
Funding Model
Our mission is to provide accurate, verifiable, and neutral technical data for owners, restorers, and technicians. This site is self-funded.
All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialFIAT documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed“ .
All external links open in new tabs. Please verify current availability of resources.
