The Lancia 159 B9.000 is a 1,995 cc, inline‑four petrol engine produced between 1975 and 1984. It features a twin‑cam (DOHC) design and mechanical fuel injection, delivering enhanced performance and responsiveness for its era. The aluminium alloy block and head construction reduced weight while maintaining structural rigidity for spirited driving.
Fitted primarily to the Lancia Beta HPE and later Beta models, the 159 B9.000 was engineered for dynamic performance and driver engagement. Emissions compliance for its production period was managed through precise fuel injection mapping and exhaust system design, aligning with evolving national regulations before the formal Euro standards.
One documented engineering update addressed fuel injection pump calibration drift under high ambient temperatures, which could cause lean running and potential pre-ignition. This was rectified in service documentation, recommending specific pump recalibration procedures for affected vehicles operating in warmer climates.
Production years 1975–1984 predate formal Euro emissions standards. Compliance was governed by national regulations (e.g., Italian Ministry of Transport).
The Lancia 159 B9.000 is a 1,995 cc inline‑four petrol engine engineered for sporty coupés and fastbacks (1975-1984). It combines dual overhead camshafts with mechanical fuel injection to deliver responsive power delivery and high-revving character. Designed for the regulatory environment of its time, it prioritizes performance and driver engagement over modern emissions targets.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,995 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 8‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 80.0 mm × 82.0 mm | |
| Power output | 103 kW (140 PS) @ 6,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 172 Nm @ 4,200 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Mechanical fuel injection (Bosch K-Jetronic) | |
| Emissions standard | Pre-Euro (National Regulations) | |
| Compression ratio | 9.8:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled, pressurised | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven DOHC | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-40 (Mineral) | |
| Dry weight | Not available in OEM documentation |
The DOHC design provides a responsive, high-revving character ideal for spirited driving but demands precise valve clearance adjustments and timing chain inspection during major services. SAE 10W-40 mineral oil is specified for its balance of cold-start flow and high-temperature protection. The Bosch K-Jetronic system requires specialized knowledge for diagnosis and calibration; improper adjustment can lead to running issues or increased emissions. Fuel pump and accumulator maintenance is critical for consistent pressure.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 10W-40 mineral oil specification (Lancia Owner's Manual, Beta HPE 1975). Modern synthetic equivalents meeting API SF/CC or earlier are often used.
Emissions: Formal Euro standards did not exist. Compliance was with national regulations (Italian Ministry of Transport, Decree 1974/512).
Power Ratings: Measured under period-typical standards (e.g., DIN 70020). Figures are net power as installed in vehicle (Lancia Type Approval Documentation 1975).
Lancia Workshop Manual, Chassis 830 (1975)
Lancia Parts Catalogue, Vol. 4 (1976)
Lancia Owner's Manual, Beta HPE (1975)
Italian Ministry of Transport, Decree 1974/512
The Lancia 159 B9.000 was used across Lancia's Beta platform with longitudinal, front-engine, front-wheel-drive mounting. This engine received minor platform-specific adaptations for the HPE and later Berlina/Coupé models, primarily concerning fuel injection pump bracketry and engine bay clearance. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine type code stamped on a flat boss on the cylinder block, typically near the oil filter or on the front face adjacent to the water pump (Lancia Workshop Manual 830). The code "159 B9.000" should be clearly visible. Visually, it is identifiable by its twin camshaft covers and the prominent Bosch mechanical fuel injection pump mounted on the intake side. Differentiation from the carburetted 149 C2.000 is by the presence of the fuel injection pump and associated plumbing. Service parts for the fuel injection system are specific to this engine variant.
The 159 B9.000's primary long-term reliability concern is the complexity and maintenance of its Bosch K-Jetronic fuel injection system, with calibration drift being a documented issue in warmer operating environments. Lancia service bulletins from the era highlight this as a key service item, while owner club data suggests it is a frequent cause of running problems in neglected examples. Adherence to specialized maintenance procedures is critical.
Analysis derived from Lancia technical bulletins (1975-1984) and aggregated data from Lancia owner club technical advisors. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about LANCIA 159-B9-000.
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LANCIA Official Site
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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
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