The Fiat 835 C4.000 is a 1,498 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1983 and 1990. It features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) design with two valves per cylinder and a carburettor fuel system. This configuration prioritizes simplicity and ease of maintenance, delivering 53 kW (72 PS) and 115 Nm of torque for economical urban mobility.
Fitted primarily to the Fiat Ritmo and Regata, the 835 C4.000 was engineered for dependable, low-cost transportation with an emphasis on fuel efficiency and ease of repair. Emissions compliance was basic for its era, meeting pre-Euro standards through its simple mechanical design and lack of complex electronic controls.
One documented concern is premature wear of the distributor drive gear, often linked to inadequate lubrication or extended oil change intervals. This issue, referenced in Fiat workshop bulletins for the Ritmo, can lead to ignition timing drift or distributor seizure if not addressed, necessitating strict adherence to the 10,000 km oil change schedule.
Production years 1983–1990 pre-date formal Euro standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5682).
The Fiat 835 C4.000 is a 1,498 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engineered for compact passenger vehicles (1983-1990). It combines a simple SOHC valvetrain with carburettor fuel delivery to deliver economical, low-stress performance for city driving. Designed for pre-Euro compliance, it prioritizes mechanical simplicity and ease of repair.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,498 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, SOHC, 8‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 76.0 mm × 82.0 mm | |
| Power output | 53 kW (72 PS) @ 5,600 rpm | |
| Torque | 115 Nm @ 3,200 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Weber twin-choke carburettor | |
| Emissions standard | Pre-Euro | |
| Compression ratio | 9.3:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Belt-driven camshaft | |
| Oil type | API SF / SAE 10W-40 | |
| Dry weight | 110 kg |
The SOHC design and carburettor provide straightforward mechanics and easy tuning, but demand strict 60,000 km timing belt replacement intervals to prevent catastrophic failure. API SF 10W-40 oil is suitable for its low-stress design and critical for lubricating the distributor drive gear. The carburettor requires periodic cleaning and adjustment for optimal running; neglect can lead to poor idle or fuel economy. Distributor drive gear wear is a known failure point; any sign of ignition misfire or timing drift warrants immediate inspection per Fiat TB-835-01.
Oil Specs: Requires API SF specification oil (Fiat Workshop Manual 835). Modern API SN/SP oils are backward compatible but offer no significant benefit.
Emissions: Pre-Euro certification applies to all models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5682). No Euro 1 compliance documented.
Power Ratings: Measured under EEC 80/1268 standards. Output is consistent across applications with no documented higher ratings (Fiat Group PT-1986).
Fiat Technical Information System: Workshop Manual 835, TB-835-01
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5682)
EEC Directive 80/1268 Power Measurement Standards
The Fiat 835 C4.000 was used across Fiat's compact passenger platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-unique engine mounts and ancillary brackets for the Ritmo vs. Regata-but no major facelift revisions occurred during its production, ensuring broad parts interchangeability. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the flat boss on the front face of the engine block, near the gearbox flange (Fiat Workshop Manual 835). The full code "835 C4.000" should be clearly visible. Visually, it is identifiable by its cast iron block, prominent Weber carburettor on the intake manifold, and belt-driven camshaft cover at the front. Critical differentiation from later fuel-injected 835 variants: presence of carburettor and mechanical fuel pump, absence of fuel injectors and electronic throttle body. Parts are generally interchangeable across Ritmo/Regata applications unless specified otherwise in the EPC.
The 835 C4.000's primary reliability risk is timing belt failure due to tensioner wear, with elevated incidence following neglected service intervals. Fiat workshop data indicates this is the most common major repair for high-mileage units, while distributor drive gear wear is a secondary concern linked to oil maintenance. Neglecting the 60,000 km belt change or 10,000 km oil changes makes proactive inspection critical.
Analysis derived from Fiat technical bulletins (1983-1990) and UK DVSA failure statistics (historical data). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FIAT 835-C4-000.
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