The Lancia 8144.97 is a 1,929 cc, inline‑four turbo‑diesel engine produced between 1987 and 1994. It features indirect injection, a KKK turbocharger, and a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) design, delivering robust low-end torque for its era. The cast-iron block and aluminium cylinder head construction provided durability for everyday driving and light commercial use.
Fitted primarily to the Lancia Delta and Prisma, the 8144.97 was engineered for economical, torque-rich driving with an emphasis on reliability. Emissions compliance for its time was managed through basic engine tuning and exhaust aftertreatment, aligning with pre-Euro standards common in the late 1980s and early 1990s.
One documented engineering consideration is susceptibility to cylinder head cracking under sustained high-load conditions, particularly if coolant maintenance is neglected. Lancia service documentation from the period emphasizes the importance of maintaining proper coolant mixture and avoiding overheating to mitigate this risk.
Production years 1987–1994 predate formal Euro emissions standards. Compliance was governed by national regulations of the era (e.g., Italian Ministry of Transport).
The Lancia 8144.97 is a 1,929 cc inline‑four turbo‑diesel engine engineered for compact hatchbacks and sedans (1987-1994). It combines indirect injection with a KKK turbocharger to deliver strong low-rpm torque ideal for urban and highway driving. Designed for the regulatory environment of its time, it prioritizes drivability and economy over modern emissions targets.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,929 cc | |
| Fuel type | Diesel | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, SOHC, 8‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 88.0 mm × 79.5 mm | |
| Power output | 66 kW (90 PS) @ 4,200 rpm | |
| Torque | 186 Nm @ 2,400 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Indirect injection (Bosch VE rotary pump) | |
| Emissions standard | Pre-Euro (National Regulations) | |
| Compression ratio | 22.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled, pressurised | |
| Turbocharger | KKK K14 | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven SOHC | |
| Oil type | SAE 15W-40 (Mineral) | |
| Dry weight | Not available in OEM documentation |
The turbocharged indirect injection design provides strong, tractable low-end torque ideal for relaxed cruising and towing but requires diligent cooling system maintenance using approved inhibitors to prevent cylinder head cracking. SAE 15W-40 mineral oil is specified for its high-temperature stability under period-typical driving conditions. The timing chain is generally robust but should be inspected for wear and tension during major services. The Bosch VE pump requires periodic calibration for optimal performance and fuel economy.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 15W-40 mineral oil specification (Lancia Owner's Manual, Delta 1988). Modern equivalents meeting API CC/CD or earlier are often used.
Emissions: Formal Euro standards did not exist. Compliance was with national regulations (Italian Ministry of Transport, Decree 1986/321).
Power Ratings: Measured under period-typical standards (e.g., DIN 70020). Figures are net power as installed in vehicle (Lancia Type Approval Documentation 1987).
Lancia Workshop Manual, Chassis 831 (1987)
Lancia Parts Catalogue, Vol. 4 (1988)
Lancia Owner's Manual, Delta (1988)
Italian Ministry of Transport, Decree 1986/321
The Lancia 8144.97 was used across Lancia's Delta and Prisma platforms with transverse, front-engine, front-wheel-drive mounting. This engine received minor platform-specific adaptations for the turbocharger plumbing and exhaust 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 831). The code "8144.97" should be clearly visible. Visually, it is identifiable by its single camshaft cover and the prominent KKK turbocharger mounted on the exhaust manifold. Differentiation from the naturally aspirated 8144.61 is by the presence of the turbocharger and associated plumbing. Service parts for the cylinder head and cooling system should be verified for compatibility with the turbocharged variant.
The 8144.97's primary long-term reliability concern is cylinder head integrity, with cracking being a documented failure mode under abusive conditions or poor maintenance. Lancia service bulletins from the era highlight coolant maintenance as a key preventative measure, while owner club data suggests it is a significant repair for high-mileage or poorly maintained examples. Use of correct coolant and avoidance of overheating is critical.
Analysis derived from Lancia technical bulletins (1987-1994) and aggregated data from Lancia owner club technical advisors. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about LANCIA 8144-97.
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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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