Alfa Romeo 33

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/6/60/33pressphoto.jpg

Alfa Romeo 33
Manufacturer:	Alfa Romeo
Production:	1983-1994
Body Styles:	FF compact 5-door hatchback & station wagon
Predecessors:	Alfa Romeo Alfasud
Successors:	Alfa Romeo 145/146
Competitors:	Ford Escort Volkswagen Golf

The Alfa Romeo 33 was a compact automobile produced by the Italian manufacturer Alfa Romeo between 1983 and 1994.

The car was essentially an evolution of its predecessor, the Alfasud, which was based on the same floorplan and mechanicals. Launched in 1983 as a 5-door hatchback, and a station wagon version initially badged Giardinetta, later badged SportWagon) was introduced the following year. Both the hatchback and station wagon were styled by Pininfarina. The 33 became reknowned for its nimble handling and powerful Boxer engines, but also became equally well-known for its unreliable electrics (a frequent complaint on Italian cars in general at the time).

During its 11 year lifespan the 33 saw two restyles: a mild one in 1987, when the 1.7 litre engine was introduced, and a much more extensive one in 1990, with a heavily restyled exterior (in line with the new Alfa "family look" established by the flagship 164), a revised interior, and the 1.7 litre engine upgraded to a 137 bhp 16 valve version.

The 33 was discontinued in 1994 and replaced by the Alfa Romeo 145 and 146, which used the same Boxer engines but built around an entirely new platform based on the Fiat Tipo.

Engines

Single carburettor

• 1.3, 79bhp
• 1.5, 85bhp

Twin carburettor

• 1.3 86bhp
• 1.5 95bhp
• 1.5 105bhp
• 1.7 118bhp

Fuel injection

• 1.4 88bhp (some markets under 1.3 logo)
• 1.5 95bhp
• 1.7 110bhp (IE)
• 1.7 16v 137 - 132bhp (QV)
• 1.8 TD 83bhp (3 Cyl)