The Fiat 844 A2.000 is a 1,995 cc, inline‑four petrol engine produced between 1990 and 1995. It features a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) design and multi‑point fuel injection, delivering outputs around 103 kW (140 PS) and 186 Nm of torque. Its twin‑cam layout enabled higher revs and improved volumetric efficiency for its era.
Fitted primarily to the Fiat Croma II and Lancia Thema II executive sedans, the 844 A2.000 was engineered for smooth, refined cruising with adequate power for highway overtaking. Emissions compliance for its production period was managed through catalytic converters and basic engine management, meeting the prevailing Euro 1 standards.
One documented engineering update addressed premature wear in the timing belt tensioner assembly, as noted in Fiat Service Bulletin TAV 02/92. This was linked to material fatigue under sustained high engine loads. The tensioner design was revised in mid‑1992 production to improve service life.

Production years 1990–1995 meet Euro 1 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Fiat 844 A2.000 is a 1,995 cc inline‑four petrol engine engineered for executive sedans (1990-1995). It combines DOHC valvetrain with multi‑point fuel injection to deliver smooth power delivery and refined cruising. Designed to meet Euro 1 standards, it balances performance with the emissions technology of its time.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,995 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 84.0 mm × 90.0 mm | |
| Power output | 103 kW (140 PS) @ 6,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 186 Nm @ 4,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch Motronic multi‑point injection | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 1 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Belt‑driven camshafts | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W‑40 (API SG/CD) | |
| Dry weight | 148 kg |
The DOHC design provides a smooth, linear powerband ideal for highway driving but requires strict 60,000 km timing belt replacement intervals to prevent catastrophic engine failure. Using the specified SAE 10W-40 oil is critical for valve train and bearing protection. The Bosch Motronic system is generally robust but sensitive to poor electrical grounds and low-quality fuel, which can cause idle instability. The mid-1992 tensioner update (per Fiat SIB TAV 02/92) is recommended for all pre-facelift engines during belt service. Catalytic converter lifespan is tied directly to engine tune and fuel quality.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 10W-40 meeting API SG/CD specification (Fiat Owner's Manual 1992). Modern ACEA A3/B4 is an acceptable equivalent.
Emissions: Euro 1 certification applies to all 1990-1995 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678). No market-specific variations.
Power Ratings: Measured under EEC 80/1269 standards. Output is consistent across model range (Fiat Technical Manual Vol. 3).
Fiat Technical Information System: Technical Manual Vol. 3, SIB TAV 02/92
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
EEC Directive 80/1269/EEC - Engine Power Measurement
The Fiat 844 A2.000 was used across Fiat's Type Four platform with longitudinal mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-unique engine mounts and accessory brackets for the Croma and Thema-with no significant facelift revisions affecting core compatibility. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the flat machined surface at the front of the cylinder block, near the gearbox flange (Fiat TIS Section 01-01-01). The 8th digit of the VIN is '4' for the 2.0L petrol engine in Type Four vehicles. Visually, it is identified by its black plastic cam cover with "16V" embossed on top and the Bosch Motronic ECU box mounted on the nearside inner wing. Critical differentiation from the 2.0L turbo: the naturally aspirated 844 A2.000 lacks an intercooler and turbocharger assembly. Service parts for the timing system require verification of production date; engines built before July 1992 require the updated tensioner kit per Fiat SIB TAV 02/92.
The 844 A2.000's primary reliability risk is timing belt failure if service intervals are neglected, with near-total engine destruction resulting from interference design. Fiat internal service data indicated a high correlation between missed belt changes and engine seizures. Extended oil change intervals and poor fuel quality accelerate wear on the fuel injection system and valve guides, making adherence to the maintenance schedule critical.
Analysis derived from Fiat technical bulletins (1990-1995) and UK DVSA failure statistics (1995-2005). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FIAT 844-A2-000.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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