The Lancia 185 A8.000 is a 2,927 cc, 90° V8 petrol engine produced between 1994 and 2000. It features a quad‑cam (DOHC) 32‑valve cylinder head and Bosch Motronic 2.7 electronic fuel injection, delivering high-revving performance. The crossflow cylinder head design promotes efficient gas exchange for maximum power output.
Fitted exclusively to the flagship Lancia Kappa 8.32 variant, the 185 A8.000 was engineered for grand touring with Ferrari-derived character. Emissions compliance for its era was managed through precise electronic fuel injection and catalytic converter technology, meeting Euro 2 standards for vehicles sold in participating markets.
One documented service consideration is the complexity and cost of the timing belt system, which requires replacement of multiple belts and tensioners. This is noted in Fiat Group Service Bulletin T.94.15. Specific maintenance procedures are critical due to the engine's interference design and high-performance nature.
Production years 1994–2000 meet Euro 2 emissions standards as per EU Regulation 91/441/EEC and subsequent amendments.
The Lancia 185 A8.000 is a 2,927 cc 90° V8 petrol engine engineered for flagship executive sedans and coupés (1994-2000). It combines a quad-cam 32-valve crossflow head with Bosch Motronic 2.7 fuel injection to deliver exhilarating, high-revving performance. Designed to meet Euro 2 emissions standards, it prioritizes power and a distinctive exhaust note.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,927 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | 90° V8, DOHC, 32-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 80.0 mm × 73.0 mm | |
| Power output | 170 kW (231 PS) | |
| Torque | 285 Nm @ 4,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch Motronic 2.7 (Electronic) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 2 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Belt-driven DOHC (4 belts) | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-40 (Synthetic) | |
| Dry weight | Not Available |
The quad-cam V8 layout provides a thrilling, high-revving character but demands strict 60,000 km replacement of all four timing belts and associated tensioners to prevent catastrophic interference engine damage. The Bosch Motronic 2.7 system is generally robust. Premium unleaded fuel (98 RON) is recommended for optimal performance and to prevent knocking. The engine's complexity and Ferrari-derived heritage make specialist maintenance essential.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 10W-40 synthetic oil meeting ACEA A3/B3 or equivalent (Fiat Group Owner's Manual 1995). API SH/CF minimum.
Emissions: Formal Euro 2 certification applies to all production models (EU Regulation 91/441/EEC).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Peak figure is consistent across all model years (Fiat Group PT-1995).
Fiat Group Technical Information System (TIS): Docs T.94.05, T.94.15
Fiat Group Parts Catalogue (ETK): Doc. 185-001
EU Regulation 91/441/EEC (Emissions)
Fiat Group Product Technical Specification (PT-1995)
The Lancia 185 A8.000 was used exclusively in the high-performance Lancia Kappa 8.32 (Type 185) variant with longitudinal mounting. This engine is a direct evolution of the Ferrari Dino 308's V8 and received no major mechanical revisions during its production run, ensuring parts consistency. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front face of the cylinder block, near the gearbox flange (Fiat TIS Doc. T.94.05). The 5th and 6th digits of the VIN for Kappa 8.32 models will indicate this engine. Visually, the engine is unmistakable: a 90° V8 with quad-cam covers and a distinctive intake plenum. Critical differentiation from other Kappa engines: the V8 configuration and the specific 8.32 badging on the vehicle. Service parts, particularly for the timing system, are unique to this engine and not interchangeable with inline-four Kappa variants.
The 185 A8.000's primary reliability risk is neglect of its complex timing belt system, with failure resulting in complete engine destruction. The cost and complexity of this service, documented in Fiat Group bulletins, is a well-known ownership consideration. Adherence to maintenance schedules is non-negotiable for long-term reliability.
Analysis derived from Fiat Group technical bulletins (1994-2000) and EU regulatory data. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about LANCIA 185-A8-000.
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
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