The Fiat 8140.27 is a 2,500 cc, inline‑four turbo‑diesel engine produced between 1991 and 1998. It features indirect injection, a fixed-geometry turbocharger, and a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) valvetrain. This robust unit was designed for commercial durability, delivering 76 kW (103 PS) and 225 Nm of torque for dependable load-carrying performance.
Fitted primarily to the Ducato van (Type 244) and its derivatives like the Alfa Romeo AR6, the 8140.27 was engineered for reliability and ease of maintenance in fleet and commercial use. Emissions compliance for its era was managed through basic engine calibration and a simple exhaust system, meeting Euro 1 standards.
One documented concern is cylinder head cracking, particularly between cylinders 2 and 3, often linked to overheating events or coolant system neglect. This issue, referenced in Fiat Service Bulletin 93/02, led to the introduction of a revised, thicker head casting in mid-production to improve thermal resilience.
Production years 1991–1998 meet Euro 1 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/8140).
The Fiat 8140.27 is a 2,500 cc inline‑four turbo‑diesel engineered for light commercial vehicles (1991-1998). It combines indirect injection with a fixed-geometry turbocharger to deliver strong low-end pull and mechanical simplicity. Designed to meet Euro 1 standards, it prioritizes serviceability and cost-effective operation for high-mileage use.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,500 cc | |
| Fuel type | Diesel | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, SOHC, 8‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 93.0 mm × 92.0 mm | |
| Power output | 76 kW (103 PS) @ 4,200 rpm | |
| Torque | 225 Nm @ 2,400 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Indirect injection (Bosch VE rotary pump) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 1 | |
| Compression ratio | 22.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Fixed-geometry turbo (KKK or IHI) | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven | |
| Oil type | ACEA B3/B4 (SAE 15W‑40) | |
| Dry weight | 255 kg |
The indirect injection system provides forgiving cold starts and mechanical simplicity but is less efficient than modern common-rail designs. Regular coolant changes and thermostat checks are critical to prevent cylinder head cracking, a known failure point per Fiat SIB 93/02. The Bosch VE pump requires clean, low-sulfur diesel to maintain calibration and prevent wear. Oil changes with ACEA B3/B4 15W-40 every 10,000 km are essential for turbo and bottom-end longevity. Pre-1995 engines should be inspected for the original, thinner cylinder head design.
Oil Specs: Requires ACEA B3/B4 specification oil (Fiat Workshop Manual 8140). 15W-40 viscosity recommended for most climates.
Emissions: Euro 1 certification applies to all 1991-1998 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/8140).
Power Ratings: Measured under EEC 80/1269 standards. Output is consistent across model years (Fiat Group PT-1995).
Fiat Technical Workshop Manual: Engine 8140
Fiat Service Information Bulletin (SIB): 93/02
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/8140)
The Fiat 8140.27 was used across Fiat's light commercial platforms with longitudinal mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced engine mounts in the Ducato Maxi-and was also supplied to Alfa Romeo for their AR6 van. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on a flat pad on the left-hand side of the engine block, just below the cylinder head (Fiat Workshop Manual 8140). The code "8140.27" will be clearly visible. Visually, it can be identified by its cast-iron block, SOHC valve cover, and the Bosch VE injection pump mounted on the right side. Differentiate from the non-turbo 8140.25 by the presence of the turbocharger and associated pipework on the exhaust manifold. Cylinder heads manufactured before mid-1994 are prone to cracking and can be identified by a smoother casting surface compared to the ribbed, reinforced design introduced later (Fiat SIB 93/02).
The 8140.27's primary reliability risk is cylinder head cracking, with elevated incidence following coolant system neglect. Fiat internal service data indicated this was a leading cause of major engine failure in high-mileage fleets, while its simple mechanical design otherwise proved very durable. Overheating events make proactive cooling system maintenance critical.
Analysis derived from Fiat technical bulletins (1991-1998) and UK DVSA failure statistics (1995-2005). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FIAT 8140-27.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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