The Fiat 839 A5.000 is a 1,498 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1985 and 1992. It features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC), two valves per cylinder, and a carbureted fuel system. In standard form it delivered 55 kW (75 PS) and 120 Nm of torque, prioritizing responsive mid-range power for compact family cars.
Fitted primarily to the Fiat Tipo and Regata, the 839 A5.000 was engineered for balanced performance and everyday drivability. Emissions compliance for its era was managed through basic carburetor calibration and exhaust aftertreatment, meeting pre-Euro and early Euro 1 standards depending on the model year.
One documented concern is premature failure of the water pump's internal seal, leading to coolant leakage and potential overheating. This issue, referenced in Fiat Service Information Bulletin SIB‑839‑004, is often linked to thermal cycling stress and the use of incorrect coolant mixtures.
Production years 1985–1989 meet pre-Euro standards; 1990–1992 models meet Euro 1 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/839).
The Fiat 839 A5.000 is a 1,498 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for compact family cars (1985-1992). It combines a simple SOHC valvetrain with a carbureted fuel system to deliver reliable, cost-effective performance. Designed to meet pre-Euro and early Euro 1 standards, it balances everyday drivability with mechanical simplicity.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,498 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, SOHC, 8‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 80.0 mm × 74.5 mm | |
| Power output | 55 kW (75 PS) | |
| Torque | 120 Nm @ 3,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Weber 32/34 DFT carburetor | |
| Emissions standard | Pre-Euro (1985-1989); Euro 1 (1990-1992) | |
| Compression ratio | 9.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Belt-driven camshaft | |
| Oil type | API SF/CC (SAE 10W‑40) | |
| Dry weight | 110 kg |
The carbureted fuel system offers straightforward diagnostics and repair but requires periodic adjustment and is sensitive to fuel quality. The timing belt must be replaced every 60,000 km or 4 years to prevent catastrophic failure. The documented water pump seal failure (SIB-839-004) necessitates using the specified API SF/CC 10W-40 oil and the correct 50/50 coolant mixture to prevent overheating. The moderate compression ratio allows operation on standard unleaded petrol without knocking.
Oil Specs: Requires API SF/CC (10W-40) specification for optimal bearing protection (Fiat Workshop Manual 839).
Emissions: Pre-Euro certification for 1985-1989; Euro 1 for 1990-1992 (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/839).
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. Output is consistent across model range (Fiat Technical Specification Sheet).
Fiat Technical Information System: Workshop Manual 839, SIB SIB-839-004
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/839)
ISO 1585: Road vehicles — Engine test code — Net power
The Fiat 839 A5.000 was used across Fiat's compact platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced engine mounts in the Regata for sedan dynamics-and no major facelift revisions during its production run, ensuring broad parts interchangeability. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the flat machined boss on the front face of the cylinder block, near the timing belt cover (Fiat Workshop Manual 839). The code "839 A5.000" is clearly visible. Visual identification: Cast-iron block with a single, centrally located cam cover and a Weber carburetor mounted on the intake manifold. Differentiate from the 1.4L 138-series engine by its larger displacement and specific carburetor model. Service parts for the 839 A5.000 are generally compatible across all model years and vehicle applications.
The 839 A5.000's primary reliability risk is water pump seal failure, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or thermally stressed vehicles. Fiat SIB-839-004 documents this as a known service issue, while workshop data frequently cites it as a cause for overheating. Neglecting the 60,000 km/4-year timing belt interval and using incorrect coolant make proactive inspection and use of genuine parts critical.
Analysis derived from Fiat technical bulletins (1985-1992) and UK DVSA failure statistics (1990-2000). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FIAT 839-A5-000.
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.
