Alfa Romeo 33 1.7 Ti

In Europe during 1986, Alfa Romeo laid plans for the next major mechanical change for the by now evergreen flat four boxer engine.

This involved three areas of development and would eventually result in a substantial increase  in power output and over all performance.

Stage one provided for the capacity to be lifted to 1712cc, achieved by raising bore and stroke to 87mm x 75mm respectively.

Camshaft profiles and carburettor jetting were also slightly modified providing 118hp at 6000 rpm.

Stage two involved modifying inlet and exhaust valve actuation by deleting the tappet shim method of adjustment and opting for a hydraulic system that relied on engine oil pressure for more acurate valve operation and less maintenance required.

The third and final stage involved the adaption of Bosch Jetronic fuel injection.

Stage one, the 1.7 engine was first seen in Australia in October 1987 as the Alfa 33 1.7 Ti.

This car followed the trend set by the earlier 1.5 Ti of having the front and rear bumper bars colour coded to the body, a large rear spoiler mounted to the hatch and the return of the Green Clover Leaf badge, symbolic of past racing glory and designating the car as the "sports" version of the model range.

The interior featured deeply contoured bucket seats that were very similar to the Sprint QV and 33 1.5 Ti, but trimmed in dark grey and black fabric with a red strip to highlight the check pattern.

The same material was used for the door trims with red carpet adding a strong contrast to the overall dark colours used.

Mechanically, new up rated springs and shock absorbers were used as well as ventilated front disc brakes.

To be continued.....................

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