Alfa Romeo 33 1.7 Boxer 16v (1990-92)

The Alfa Romeo 33 1.7 Boxer 16V, like many classic cars, had its share of common issues:
1. Electrical Problems: These were quite frequent, affecting various components.
2. Brake Wear: Heavy brake pad wear was common, especially if the car was driven vigorously.
3. Torque Steer: This issue affected the handling, particularly under hard acceleration.
4. Steering Feel: The steering was often criticized for lacking feedback.
5. Ergonomics: The driving position was awkward, with the driver angled towards the centre of the car.
6. Rust: Although improved over earlier models, rust could still be an issue.
7. Engine Issues: Problems like rough idling, misfiring, and lack of power were reported by some owners.
Despite these faults, the Alfa Romeo 33 1.7 Boxer 16V remains a beloved classic for its unique character and driving experience.
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Generations
The Alfa Romeo 33 1.7 Boxer 16V was part of the second generation of the Alfa Romeo 33 series. The second generation, which included the 1.7 Boxer 16V, was produced from 1989 to 1994.
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Trim Levels
The Alfa Romeo 33 1.7 Boxer 16V, produced between 1990 and 1992, was available in several trim levels. The most notable ones included:

1. **Standard Trim**: This base model offered essential features and the powerful 1.7 Boxer 16V engine.
2. **Cloverleaf (Quadrifoglio Verde)**: This was the sportier version, featuring enhanced performance and distinctive styling elements.

These trims provided a mix of performance and style, making the Alfa Romeo 33 a popular choice among enthusiasts during that period.
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Engines
The Alfa Romeo 33 1.7 Boxer 16V was equipped with a single engine option: the 1.7-litre 16-valve boxer engine. This engine was notable for its quad-cam design and fuel injection system, producing between 129 to 137 PS (95 to 101 kW) depending on whether it had a catalytic converter.
This engine was a significant upgrade over previous versions, featuring redesigned cylinder heads with two camshafts per bank and a higher compression ratio, which contributed to its impressive performance.
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Performance
The Alfa Romeo 33 1.7 Boxer 16V offered impressive performance for its time. Here are some key performance figures:
• 0-60 mph (0-100 km/h): Approximately 8 seconds.
• Top Speed: Around 128 mph (203 km/h).
• Power Output: 132 horsepower (98 kW).
The car was known for its lively engine, which revved eagerly to its redline, and its agility, making it a fun drive on twisty roads. However, it did suffer from some traction issues under hard acceleration, which could affect its 0-60 mph times.
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Spares
You can find spare parts for the Alfa Romeo 33 1.7 Boxer 16V at several online retailers in the UK and Ireland. Here are a few options:
1. Autodoc: They offer a wide range of parts for the Alfa Romeo 33, including the 1.7 16V model.
2. BuyCarParts.co.uk: Another reliable source for various spare parts.
3. ML Performance: Specializes in performance parts and accessories.
4. EU-Spares: Provides a comprehensive parts catalogue for the Alfa Romeo 33.
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Specialists
There are several garage services in Northern Ireland that can help with your Alfa Romeo 33 1.7 Boxer 16V. Here are a few options:
1. Alfa Romeo Specialists Belfast: Known for their expertise in Alfa Romeo models, they offer a range of services including maintenance, repairs, and parts sourcing.
2. Auto Q Belfast: They provide comprehensive services for classic and modern Alfa Romeos, including diagnostics and repairs.
3. Mervyn Stewart Alfa Romeo: Located in Belfast, they are an authorized Alfa Romeo service centre, offering specialized care for your vehicle.
These garages should be able to assist you with any maintenance or repair needs for your Alfa Romeo 33 1.7 Boxer 16V.
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Racing
The Alfa Romeo 33 1.7 Boxer 16V had a notable presence in motorsport, particularly in touring car and rally racing during the late 1980s and early 1990s. Here are some highlights of its racing history:
Touring Car Racing
• European Touring Car Championship (ETCC): The Alfa Romeo 33 1.7 Boxer 16V competed in the ETCC, where it faced off against other popular touring cars of the era. Its lightweight design and powerful engine made it a competitive choice.
• National Championships: The car also participated in various national touring car championships across Europe, where it often performed well due to its agility and handling.
Rally Racing
• National Rally Championships: The 33 1.7 Boxer 16V was a popular choice in national rally events, particularly in Italy and other European countries. Its robust engine and nimble handling made it suitable for the challenging conditions of rally stages.
• Club-Level Events: Many privateers and amateur racers used the Alfa Romeo 33 1.7 Boxer 16V in club-level rally events, where it gained a reputation for being both fun to drive and competitive.
Key Features for Racing
• Engine: The 1.7-litre 16-valve boxer engine provided a good balance of power and reliability, essential for racing.
• Handling: The car’s front-wheel-drive layout and well-tuned suspension made it agile and responsive, which was beneficial in both touring car and rally formats.
• Lightweight: Its relatively low weight contributed to its performance, especially in terms of acceleration and cornering.
The Alfa Romeo 33 1.7 Boxer 16V’s racing history is a testament to its engineering and design, making it a beloved model among enthusiasts and racers alike.
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Valuation 2024
The current value of an Alfa Romeo 33 1.7 Boxer 16V can vary depending on its condition, mileage, and history. Here are some examples of recent listings:
• AutoScout24: Listings show prices around €11,500 for well-maintained models.
• Classic Trader: Prices can range from approximately £5,035 for models in good condition.
These values can fluctuate based on the car’s specific condition and any modifications or restorations it may have undergone.
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