The Lancia 312 B1.000 is a 2,946 cc, V6 petrol engine produced between 1998 and 2005. It features a twin‑cam (DOHC) design per bank and multi‑point electronic fuel injection, delivering smooth, refined power for its era. The aluminium alloy block and heads provided a favorable power-to-weight ratio while maintaining structural rigidity.
Fitted primarily to the Lancia Thesis, the 312 B1.000 was engineered for quiet, luxurious cruising and effortless overtaking. Emissions compliance for its production period was achieved through precise electronic fuel injection and catalytic converter integration, meeting Euro 3 standards.
One documented engineering concern is premature failure of the intake manifold runner flaps, which could lead to reduced performance and rough running. This was addressed in Lancia service documentation, recommending specific flap replacement procedures and the use of updated components for affected vehicles.
Production years 1998–2005 meet Euro 3 standards (Italian Ministry of Transport Type Approval).
The Lancia 312 B1.000 is a 2,946 cc V6 petrol engine engineered for flagship sedans (1998-2005). It combines dual overhead camshafts per bank with multi-point electronic fuel injection to deliver smooth, linear power and meet emissions targets. Designed to meet Euro 3 standards, it balances luxury refinement with strong performance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,946 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | V6, DOHC, 24‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 88.0 mm × 81.0 mm | |
| Power output | 162 kW (220 PS) @ 6,300 rpm | |
| Torque | 285 Nm @ 5,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi-point electronic fuel injection | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 3 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.3:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled, pressurised | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven DOHC | |
| Oil type | SAE 5W-40 (Synthetic) | |
| Dry weight | Not available in OEM documentation |
The DOHC 24-valve V6 design provides exceptionally smooth, refined power ideal for luxury cruising but demands strict adherence to the 120,000 km timing chain inspection interval to prevent potential failure. SAE 5W-40 synthetic oil is specified for its superior high-temperature protection and flow characteristics. The documented intake manifold runner flap issue necessitates using the updated OEM components during replacement to ensure reliable engine operation and performance.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 5W-40 synthetic oil specification (Lancia Owner's Manual, Thesis 1999).
Emissions: Euro 3 certification applies to all 1998-2005 models (Italian Ministry of Transport Type Approval).
Power Ratings: Measured under period-typical standards (e.g., DIN 70020). Figures are net power as installed in vehicle (Lancia Type Approval Documentation 1998).
Lancia Workshop Manual, Chassis 840 (1998)
Lancia Parts Catalogue, Vol. 7 (1999)
Lancia Owner's Manual, Thesis (1999)
Italian Ministry of Transport, Type Approval Records
The Lancia 312 B1.000 was used exclusively in Lancia's Thesis platform with longitudinal, front-engine, front-wheel-drive mounting. This engine received minor platform-specific adaptations for ancillary drive layouts and engine management harness routing. 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 840). The code "312 B1.000" should be clearly visible. Visually, it is identifiable by its V6 configuration, twin camshaft covers per bank, and the multi-point fuel injection rail on the intake manifold. Differentiation from other Lancia V6 engines is by displacement and the specific intake manifold design with electronically controlled runner flaps. Service parts for the intake manifold require verification of the correct updated part number as per Lancia Technical Bulletin.
The 312 B1.000's primary reliability risk is intake manifold runner flap failure, leading to drivability issues and potential check engine light activation. Lancia service data indicates this was a prevalent concern in mid-life examples. Adherence to using the updated OEM components during replacement is critical to prevent recurring faults.
Analysis derived from Lancia technical bulletins (1998-2005) and aggregated data from Lancia owner club technical advisors. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about LANCIA 312-B1-000.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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LANCIA Official Site
Owner literature, service manuals, technical releases, and plant documentation.
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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