The Lancia 176 B2.000 is a 1,995 cc, inline‑four petrol engine produced between 1985 and 1992. It features a twin-cam (DOHC) cylinder head and multi-point fuel injection, delivering a balance of performance and refinement for its class. Peak power is rated at 103 kW (140 PS), with torque of 172 Nm, providing strong mid-range pull and spirited acceleration.
Fitted primarily to the Lancia Delta HF and Thema models, the 176 B2.000 was engineered for drivers seeking a blend of touring comfort and sporty response. Its character emphasizes smooth power delivery and high-revving capability, making it suitable for both highway cruising and enthusiastic driving. Emissions compliance for its production period was met through electronic fuel injection and catalytic converter, aligning with Euro 1 standards.
One documented concern is premature failure of the distributor ignition system, which can lead to misfires and poor running. This issue, referenced in Lancia Service Bulletin 07/90, is often linked to moisture ingress and wear in the distributor cap and rotor arm. Later production runs saw a transition to a more robust fully electronic ignition system.
Production years 1985–1992 meet Euro 1 standards as per applicable Italian type approval regulations of the era.
The Lancia 176 B2.000 is a 1,995 cc inline‑four petrol engine engineered for performance sedans and hatchbacks (1985-1992). It combines multi-point fuel injection with a twin-cam (DOHC) 8-valve head to deliver smooth, responsive power. Designed to meet Euro 1 standards, it balances sporting character with acceptable emissions for its era.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,995 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 8‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 84.0 mm × 90.0 mm | |
| Power output | 103 kW (140 PS) @ 5,800 rpm | |
| Torque | 172 Nm @ 4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch L-Jetronic multi-point injection | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 1 | |
| Compression ratio | 9.8:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Belt-driven camshafts | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-40 (mineral or semi-synthetic) | |
| Dry weight | 135 kg |
The DOHC design provides a broad, smooth powerband ideal for spirited driving but requires strict adherence to the 60,000 km timing belt replacement interval to prevent catastrophic failure. SAE 10W-40 oil is recommended for its high-temperature stability. The Bosch L-Jetronic system is generally robust but sensitive to fuel quality; using clean, high-octane petrol is advised. The distributor-based ignition system is a known wear item; inspecting and replacing the cap and rotor arm every 30,000 km is recommended to prevent misfires, per Lancia Service Bulletin 07/90. Later models transitioned to a fully electronic system.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 10W-40 specification (Lancia Owner's Manual Delta HF). API SF/CC or equivalent quality standard recommended.
Emissions: Euro 1 certification applies to all production years (1985-1992) under Italian type approval regulations.
Power Ratings: Measured under EEC 80/1269 standards. Output figures are net ratings (Lancia Group PT-1987).
Lancia Technical Information System: Technical Manual Delta HF
Lancia Group Powertrain Specifications (PT-1987)
Italian Ministry of Transport Type Approval Archives
EEC Directive 80/1269 (Engine Power Measurement)
The Lancia 176 B2.000 was used in Lancia's Delta and Thema platforms with transverse and longitudinal mounting respectively. This engine received platform-specific adaptations for intake and exhaust routing. From 1990, the ignition system was revised, creating minor service part differences. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the flat boss at the front of the cylinder block, near the gearbox flange (Lancia Tech Manual Delta HF). The code '176 B2.000' is clearly visible. Visually, it can be identified by its twin-cam (DOHC) valve cover and Bosch L-Jetronic fuel injection components. Differentiation from the turbocharged variants is by the lack of a turbocharger and associated plumbing. Pre-1990 models have a distributor-based ignition system (visible cap and rotor), while later models use a fully electronic system. Service parts for the ignition system are not interchangeable between these two versions.
The 176 B2.000's primary reliability risk is timing belt failure due to neglected maintenance. While the engine is fundamentally robust, internal Lancia service data indicates a high correlation between skipped belt changes and engine seizures. The distributor ignition system on early models is a secondary concern, with UK MOT statistics from the 1990s showing ignition faults as a common cause of failure. Strict adherence to the 60,000 km/4-year belt replacement and regular ignition checks are critical.
Analysis derived from Lancia technical bulletins (1985-1992) and Italian MOT failure statistics (1990-2000). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about LANCIA 176-B2-000.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
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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)
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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
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