Water-cooled, pressurized system with electric fan
đ§ Transmission
Standard
Transmission Type:
5-speed manual
Optional
Transmission Type:
4-speed automatic (less common)
Features
Gear Ratios:
Specific ratios provided for each gear and final drive in manual.
Clutch Type:
Hydraulically operated, single dry plate clutch
Fluid Specifications
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 (refer to manual for exact OEM spec)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron III or equivalent (if applicable)
đ Dimensions
Exterior
Length:
4285 mm (168.7 in)
Width:
1760 mm (69.3 in)
Height:
1370 mm (53.9 in)
Wheelbase:
2500 mm (98.4 in)
Track Width Front:
1505 mm (59.3 in)
Track Width Rear:
1475 mm (58.1 in)
Cargo
Trunk Volume:
Approx. 240 liters (8.5 cu ft)
Weights
Curb Weight 2.0L:
Approx. 1350 kg (2976 lbs)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Refer to vehicle placard/manual
đĄïž Safety Features
Ratings
Euro Ncap Rating:
Not rated under modern standards, early models had basic safety features.
Active Features
ABS:
Standard on most variants, especially turbocharged models.
Traction Control:
ASR (Acceleration Slip Regulation) often available on higher trims/turbo models.
Passive Features
Airbags:
Driver and passenger airbags standard.
Seatbelts:
Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pre-tensioners.
Body Structure:
Reinforced passenger cell, crumple zones.
đĄ Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Factory fitted cassette/radio with CD changer option. Basic analogue dashboard instrumentation.
Climate Control Tech:
Manual or optional automatic climate control systems.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Optional on some variants.
Connectivity
Connectivity Options:
Limited to factory fitted radio/cassette player. No OEM Bluetooth or USB in 1995.
đ§ Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
15,000 km (9,000 miles) or 12 months, whichever comes first.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Every 90,000 km (55,000 miles) or 5 years. CRITICAL on Turbo models to prevent catastrophic engine damage.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000 km (18,000 miles)
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Specification:
API SJ/SL, ACEA A3/B3, SAE 10W-40 or 5W-40 (depending on climate). Consult manual for exact grade.
Coolant Specification:
Ethylene glycol based coolant, 50/50 mix with distilled water. Purple/pink long-life coolant often specified.
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 4
Power Steering Fluid:
ATF Dexron II or III (confirm with manual)
Known Issues
Common Failures:
Timing belt tensioner and idler pulleys (critical failure risk), rust in wheel arches and sills, electrical gremlins (window regulators, central locking), turbocharger wear (on turbo models), clutch wear.
Durability Concerns:
Some engine components may be less robust than Japanese counterparts; turbo models require meticulous maintenance.
đ Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Marque Focus:
Fiat has a long history of producing innovative and sporty vehicles.
Model Evolution
Design Influence:
Designed by Pininfarina, it shared its platform with the Fiat Tipo but featured a distinctive, aggressive styling.
Introduction Year:
1993
Facelifts:
Minor revisions occurred, including interior updates and powertrain refinements in later years.
Production
Production Period:
1993 - 2001
Manufacturing Location:
Turin, Italy
Total Units Produced:
Approx. 140,000
đ Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Design Awards:
Praised for its distinctive and bold styling by critics and the public alike. Pininfarina designation adds prestige.
Ratings
Reliability Ratings:
Generally considered average to below average by contemporary consumer reports, with a strong emphasis on the need for diligent maintenance. Turbo models particularly sensitive.
Certifications
Emissions Standards:
Compliant with Euro 1/2 emissions standards for its respective markets.