The Lancia 838 B.000 – Petrol is a 1,498 cc, inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine produced between 1985 and 1992. It features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) design and electronic fuel injection, delivering outputs of 85 kW (115 PS) and 162 Nm of torque. Its turbocharger enables strong low — end response for spirited driving.
Fitted to performance — oriented models like the Delta HF Turbo, the 838 B.000 was engineered for rally — bred handling and rapid acceleration. Em…
Production years 1985–1989 meet pre-Euro standards; 1990–1992 models comply with Euro 1 emissions (EC Directive 91/441/EEC).
The Lancia 838 B.000 – Petrol is a 1,498 cc inline-four turbocharged petrol engine engineered for performance hatchbacks (1985-1992). It combines SOHC architecture with electronic fuel injection and a turbocharger to deliver accessible torque. Designed to meet evolving emissions standards, it balances rally-inspired performance with road-going practicality.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 1,498 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol | |
Configuration | Inline-4, SOHC, 8-valve | |
Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
Bore × stroke | 78.0 mm × 78.4 mm | |
Power output | 85 kW (115 PS) @ 5,500 rpm | |
Torque | 162 Nm @ 2,750 rpm | |
Fuel system | Weber-Marelli IAW electronic fuel injection | |
Emissions standard | Pre-Euro (1985–1989); Euro 1 (1990–1992) | |
Compression ratio | 8.0:1 | |
Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
Turbocharger | IHI turbocharger | |
Timing system | Belt-driven (requires periodic replacement) | |
Oil type | Refer to vehicle handbook / manufacturer specification | |
Dry weight | 132 kg |
The Lancia 838 B.000 – Petrol was used primarily in the Lancia Delta platform with transverse front-wheel-drive mounting. This engine powered the early HF Turbo variants and received specific adaptations for boost control and cooling. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
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The 838 B.000 – Petrol's primary reliability risk is turbocharger failure due to inadequate lubrication or overheating. Lancia service documentation highlights this as a common failure mode in vehicles with neglected oil changes. UK MOT statistics from the 1990s frequently cited oil leaks and emissions faults on high-mileage examples. Adherence to the manufacturer's oil change and timing belt schedule is critical for longevity.
Analysis derived from Lancia technical bulletins (1985-1992) and European Commission type-approval records. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
The most common questions about engine codes, what they mean, how to find them and how this database works
With meticulous maintenance, particularly strict oil changes every 10,000 km and timing belt changes every 60,000 km, it can be very reliable. Its rally-bred design is robust, but neglect, especially of the turbocharger's lubrication, leads to premature failure. Regular servicing is key to longevity.
The most critical issue is turbocharger failure due to oil starvation. Other common problems include timing belt failure, faults in the Weber-Marelli fuel injection system, and oil leaks from the camshaft seals. All are well-documented in Lancia service literature.
This engine was used in the Lancia Delta HF Turbo model from 1985 to 1992. It was the original turbocharged 1.5L engine that launched the Delta's performance legacy and was not fitted to any other Lancia models.
Yes, it is tunable. Simple ECU chip tuning or boost controller adjustments can yield gains. The robust bottom end can handle increased power, making it a favorite for enthusiasts. Major modifications like larger turbos are possible but less common than on the 2.0L variants.
Fuel economy is typical for a performance turbo engine of its era. Expect around 10-12 L/100km (28-24 mpg UK) in city driving and 7-8 L/100km (40-35 mpg UK) on the highway. Real-world combined figures typically fall between 8-9 L/100km (35-31 mpg UK).
Yes. It is an interference engine design. If the timing belt fails, the pistons will collide with the open valves, causing severe internal damage that requires a complete engine rebuild or replacement.
Lancia specified SAE 10W-40 engine oil meeting API SG/CC standards. Using a high-quality mineral or semi-synthetic oil of this grade is essential for protecting the turbocharger bearings and engine internals, especially given its performance nature.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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Regulatory Stability
EU regulations are referenced using CELEX identifiers for long-term stability.
EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.
DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
UK type-approval authority for automotive products.
Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.
VCA Certification Portal
Type-approval guidance and documentation.
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