Inline-4 cylinder petrol, Inline-4 cylinder turbodiesel (TD and JTD common rail)
Performance
1.4L Petrol (1372Cc):
Approx. 73-75 PS (54-55 kW), ~115 Nm torque
1.6L Petrol (1581Cc):
Approx. 90-103 PS (66-76 kW), ~134-145 Nm torque
1.8L Petrol (1747Cc):
Approx. 113-115 PS (83-85 kW), ~154-156 Nm torque
2.0L Petrol (1998Cc, 20V):
Approx. 147 PS (108 kW), ~186 Nm torque
1.9L Td (1929Cc):
Approx. 75-90 PS (55-66 kW), ~155-185 Nm torque
1.9L Jtd (1910Cc):
Approx. 105 PS (77 kW), ~200 Nm torque
Fuel System
Petrol Injection:
Multi-point fuel injection (MPI)
Diesel Injection:
Indirect Injection (TD), Common Rail Direct Injection (JTD)
đ§ Transmission
Standard
Standard Transmission:
5-speed manual
Optional
Optional Transmission:
4-speed automatic (on select petrol engines)
Features
Clutch Type:
Hydraulically operated single dry plate clutch
đ Dimensions
Exterior
Body Styles:
Saloon (4-door), Hatchback (3-door and 5-door), Weekend/Estate (5-door station wagon)
Wheelbase:
Approximately 2,511 mm (98.9 in)
Length:
Varies by body style (Saloon ~4.3m, Weekend ~4.45m)
Weights
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1100-1300 kg depending on engine and body style
đĄïž Safety Features
Ratings
Euroncap Crash Test:
Generally received 3-star ratings in contemporary Euro NCAP tests (Euro NCAP 1997 results for Bravo/Brava chassis as reference)
Active Features
Braking System:
Front ventilated discs, rear solid discs. Optional ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) available on higher trims or as an option.
Traction Control:
TC (Traction Control) was an optional feature on some higher-spec models.
Passive Features
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags standard on most models, side airbags optional.
Seatbelts:
Pre-tensioned front seatbelts
đĄ Technology Features
Infotainment
Original Audio:
Factory fitted radio cassette or CD players with basic speaker systems.
Climate Control:
Manual air conditioning or optional climate control systems on higher trims.
Driver Assistance
ABS Availability:
ABS was optional or standard on higher trims, not universally equipped.
Connectivity
Early Connectivity:
Limited by modern standards; primarily focused on basic vehicle functions. Aftermarket Bluetooth and multimedia integration is common for modern use.
đ§ Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Petrol:
Every 15,000 km or 12 months (whichever comes first), depending on driving conditions and oil specification.
Oil Change Diesel:
Every 10,000-15,000 km or 12 months (depending on TD vs JTD and oil type).
Timing Belt:
Recommended replacement every 60,000 - 90,000 km or 5 years (critical for interference engines, check specific engine).
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Petrol:
API SJ or ACEA A2/A3, Viscosity SAE 10W-40 or 5W-40. Consult manual for specific engine requirements.
Engine Oil Diesel:
API CF or ACEA B2/B3, Viscosity SAE 10W-40 or 15W-40. JTD may require specific synthetic oils.
Coolant:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze mixture with corrosion inhibitors, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-80 or 75W-90 gear oil
Transmission Fluid Auto:
Dexron II/III or equivalent ATF fluid (consult manual for exact specification)
Known Issues
Common Problems:
Rust in wheel arches and sills, electrical gremlins (especially window regulators, central locking), worn suspension bushings, potential head gasket issues on some petrol engines, early JTD injectors can be sensitive to fuel quality.
Preventative Measures
Corrosion Control:
Regular inspection and treatment of potential rust spots, especially in commonly affected areas.
đ Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Fiat History:
Fiat, an Italian automotive manufacturer founded in 1899, has a long history of producing accessible and innovative vehicles for the mass market.
Model Evolution
Predecessor:
Based on the Fiat Bravo/Brava platform, succeeding models like the Fiat Tipo.
Marea Introduction:
Introduced in 1996 as a more upmarket and distinct offering from the Bravo/Brava hatchback siblings, focusing on sedan and estate body styles.
Production
Production Period:
1996-2007 (with facelifts)
Production Locations
Manufacturing Sites:
Primarily Italy (Turin) and Brazil.
đ Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
General Reception:
Received mixed reviews, praised for Italian styling and practicality, but sometimes criticized for build quality and perceived reliability compared to some competitors. Awarded 'Car of the Year' titles in some specific markets for particular variants.