BODY
The use of the most advanced computerized design and
materials led to a body of top level characteristics in terms
of rigidity, strength, reliability, corrosion resistance and
comfort. The most innovative methods of integrated design
enabled the combination of this mechanical characteristics
with style and aerodynamics.
STRENGTH AND RIGIDITY
A deep structural analysis has been developed according to
the "Finished Elements Method". This new technique, which
simulates the behavior of a vehicle in the most diverse
stress conditions, enabled Alfa Romeo to minimize the
distortion and stress concentration in the materials, and to
achieve the maximum rigidity, especially torsional: in other
words, the body of the 164 is practically undeformable when
subject to stresses derived from normal use of the vehicle.
The high rigidity of the body also improves the operation of
the suspension (designed to operate on a rigid body) and
noticeably reduces the noise and squeaking generated by
the various components.
The torsional rigidity is further increased by the windshield
and by the rear window, bonded to the body.
The engine support frame, resulting from a study aiming to
optimize the manufacturing and assembly processes, further
increases the strength and rigidity of the front section,
and assures maintenance of front suspension geometric
characteristics.
Particular care has been given to the passenger compartment
design; accurate testing enabled the optimization of
the rigidity and safety characteristics.
ANTI-CORROSION PROTECTION
The body of the 164 has been treated wIth the most advanced
anti-corrosion materials and processes:
- Pre-galvanized metal sheets have been used for the
most exposed components.
- Reduced number of components, and therefore re-
duction of joints.
- Remarkable reduction of weld points (4000 against
the usual 6000), and use of automated welding.
- Drastic reduction (only 1 meter against the usual 5) of
wire welgind, the most critical process from the corrosion point of view.
- Total sealing of the body.
- Specific PB8 tretment of the box-type structure and
underbody.
The above features provide the highest resistance to any
oxidation process, and result in the maximum corrosion protection
that can be obtained with today's technology.
PAINTWORK
Alfa Romeo has set up a totally automated painting cycle
that provides the best functional and aesthetic result
- Deoxidation and decreasing.
- Phosphatizing and passivation (with total body immersion).
- Medium thickness cataphoresis.
- Application of sealant and protective coating (PVC) to
underbody.
- Primer coating of exterior parts.
- Oven curing.
- Application of lacquer (performed in rotating-cup au-
tomated booths) with maximum evenness of layers.
- Final oven curing.