The Fiat 955 A3.000 is a 1,370 cc, inline‑four petrol engine produced between 1993 and 1998. It features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) design and multi‑point fuel injection, delivering outputs around 55 kW (75 PS) and 115 Nm of torque. Its 16‑valve layout, unusual for an SOHC, provided improved airflow for better efficiency and mid‑range response.
Fitted primarily to the Fiat Punto 75 and Fiat Tipo variants, the 955 A3.000 was engineered for spirited urban driving and responsive highway overtaking. Emissions compliance for its production period was managed through catalytic converters and engine management, meeting the prevailing Euro 1 standards.
One documented engineering update addressed premature failure of the plastic intake manifold, as noted in Fiat Service Bulletin TAV 04/94. This was linked to thermal stress cracking near the EGR port. The manifold material and ribbing were revised in late 1994 production to improve heat resistance.
Production years 1993–1998 meet Euro 1 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5681).
The Fiat 955 A3.000 is a 1,370 cc inline‑four petrol engine engineered for superminis (1993-1998). It combines SOHC valvetrain with multi‑point fuel injection to deliver responsive, economical power ideal for city and A-road driving. Designed to meet Euro 1 standards, it balances performance with the emissions technology of its time.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,370 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, SOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 76.5 mm × 74.2 mm | |
| Power output | 55 kW (75 PS) @ 5,750 rpm | |
| Torque | 115 Nm @ 4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Magneti Marelli IAW multi‑point injection | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 1 | |
| Compression ratio | 9.8:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Belt‑driven camshaft | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W‑40 (API SG/CD) | |
| Dry weight | 112 kg |
The 16-valve SOHC design provides a broad, usable torque curve 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 Magneti Marelli IAW system is generally robust but sensitive to poor electrical grounds and low-quality fuel, which can cause idle instability. The late-1994 intake manifold update (per Fiat SIB TAV 04/94) is recommended for all pre-facelift engines during major 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 1994). Modern ACEA A3/B4 is an acceptable equivalent.
Emissions: Euro 1 certification applies to all 1993-1998 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5681). No market-specific variations.
Power Ratings: Measured under EEC 80/1269 standards. Output is consistent across model range (Fiat Technical Manual Vol. 4).
Fiat Technical Information System: Technical Manual Vol. 4, SIB TAV 04/94
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5681)
EEC Directive 80/1269/EEC - Engine Power Measurement
The Fiat 955 A3.000 was used across Fiat's supermini platform with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-unique engine mounts and accessory brackets for the Punto and Tipo-with a significant facelift revision in late 1994 affecting the intake manifold. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the flat machined surface on the front face of the cylinder block, near the gearbox flange (Fiat TIS Section 01-01-03). The 8th digit of the VIN is '5' for the 1.4L 16V petrol engine in Punto/Tipo vehicles. Visually, it is identified by its black plastic cam cover with "16V" embossed on top and the plastic intake manifold running across the top of the engine. Critical differentiation from the 1.4L 8V engine: the 955 A3.000 has a 16-valve head and a more complex intake manifold. Service parts for the intake system require verification of production date; engines built before October 1994 require the updated manifold per Fiat SIB TAV 04/94.
The 955 A3.000'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 (1993-1998) and UK DVSA failure statistics (1998-2008). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FIAT 955-A3-000.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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