The Lancia 198 A8.000 is a 1,749 cc, inline‑four petrol engine produced between 2004 and 2010. It features a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) design with variable valve timing (VVT) on the intake cam, delivering 96 kW (130 PS) and 162 Nm of torque. Its twin‑cam layout enables precise valve control for responsive urban performance.
Fitted primarily to the Lancia Musa and Lancia Ypsilon during this period, the 198 A8.000 was engineered for agile city driving with adequate power for highway merging. Emissions compliance for its production run was managed through multi‑point fuel injection and catalytic converter technology, meeting Euro 4 standards.
One documented service consideration is potential failure of the variable valve timing solenoid, which can trigger a check engine light and cause rough idling. This issue, referenced in Fiat Group Service Bulletin 04‑07‑12, is often due to oil sludge buildup restricting solenoid operation. Regular oil changes with the correct specification are the primary preventative measure.

Production years 2004–2010 meet Euro 4 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9012).
The Lancia 198 A8.000 is a 1,749 cc inline‑four petrol engine engineered for compact city cars (2004-2010). It combines DOHC valvetrain with intake variable valve timing (VVT) to deliver responsive low-end power and enhanced fuel efficiency. Designed to meet Euro 4 standards, it balances urban agility with acceptable emissions performance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,749 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 80.5 mm × 86.0 mm | |
| Power output | 96 kW (130 PS) @ 6,300 rpm | |
| Torque | 162 Nm @ 4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi‑point fuel injection (Magneti Marelli) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 4 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.8:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Belt‑driven | |
| Oil type | SAE 5W‑40 (ACEA A3/B4) | |
| Dry weight | 128 kg |
The VVT system provides crisp low-RPM response ideal for city driving but necessitates strict 60,000 km timing belt replacement intervals to prevent engine damage. Using ACEA A3/B4 specification oil is critical to prevent sludge buildup that can clog the VVT solenoid. The Magneti Marelli injection system is generally reliable but benefits from clean fuel. Pre-2007 engines should have the VVT solenoid inspected if rough idling or fault codes occur, as per Fiat SIB 04-07-12.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 5W-40 meeting ACEA A3/B4 specification (Fiat SIB 04-07-12).
Emissions: Euro 4 certification applies to all 2004-2010 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9012).
Power Ratings: Measured under EEC 80/1269 standards. Output consistent across model range (Fiat TIS Doc. F98772).
Fiat Technical Information System (TIS): Docs F98772, SIB 04-07-12
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/9012)
European Economic Community Directive 80/1269/EEC
The Lancia 198 A8.000 was used across Lancia's Musa and Ypsilon platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received minor platform-specific adaptations-different intake manifolds and engine mounts-and no significant facelift revisions occurred during its production, ensuring broad parts interchangeability. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on a flat boss on the front of the cylinder block, below the exhaust manifold (Fiat TIS F98772). The full code "198 A8.000" will be clearly visible. Visually, it can be identified by its black plastic camshaft cover with "16V" embossed on top and the VVT actuator on the intake camshaft pulley. Critical differentiation from the 1.4L engine: The 1.8L has a larger bore and a different intake manifold casting. Service parts like the timing belt kit are generally compatible across all applications.
The 198 A8.000's primary reliability risk is VVT solenoid failure if oil changes are neglected. Fiat Group internal data indicated a correlation between extended oil change intervals and solenoid malfunction. Urban driving with frequent short trips accelerates oil degradation, making adherence to the manufacturer's oil change schedule critical.
Analysis derived from Fiat Group technical bulletins (2004-2010) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2010-2020). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about LANCIA 198-A8-000.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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