Engine Code

LANCIA 8144-97Y engine (1987–1995) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

The Lancia 8144.97 Y is a 2,445 cc, inline‑four turbo‑diesel engine produced between 1987 and 1995. It features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) 8‑valve cylinder head and indirect injection via a Bosch VE distributor pump. The cast-iron block and simple mechanical design prioritized durability for commercial and passenger use.

Fitted to the Lancia Delta, Prisma, and Dedra platforms, the 8144.97 Y was engineered for robust torque delivery and fuel efficiency in varied conditions. Emissions compliance for its era was managed through basic exhaust aftertreatment, meeting pre-Euro and early Euro 1 standards for vehicles sold in participating markets.

One documented service consideration is the potential for injector pump seal failure, leading to diesel leakage into the engine oil sump. This is noted in Fiat Group Service Bulletin T.87.03. The mechanical nature of the VE pump requires precise calibration during rebuilds to maintain performance and economy.

Lancia Engine
Compliance Note:

Production years 1987–1995 meet applicable national emissions standards for their model year; formal Euro 1 compliance varies by specific market and VIN (EU Regulation 83/351/EEC).

8144-97Y Technical Specifications

The Lancia 8144.97 Y is a 2,445 cc inline‑four turbo‑diesel engineered for compact and mid-size models (1987-1995). It combines indirect injection with a mechanically controlled turbocharger to deliver strong low-rpm torque and rugged reliability. Designed to meet pre-Euro and early Euro 1 standards, it prioritizes durability and serviceability over refinement.

ParameterValueSource
Displacement2,445 cc
Fuel typeDiesel
ConfigurationInline‑4, SOHC, 8‑valve
AspirationTurbocharged
Bore × stroke93.0 mm × 90.0 mm
Power output66–74 kW (90–100 PS)
Torque192–206 Nm @ 2,500 rpm
Fuel systemBosch VE distributor pump (mechanical)
Emissions standardPre-Euro / Euro 1 (Market Dependent)
Compression ratio22.5:1
Cooling systemWater‑cooled
TurbochargerKKK K14 (mechanically wastegated)
Timing systemBelt-driven SOHC
Oil typeSAE 15W-40 (Mineral)
Dry weightNot Available
Practical Implications

The SOHC 8-valve layout provides rugged, low-RPM torque ideal for hauling but requires strict 60,000 km timing belt replacement intervals to prevent catastrophic interference engine damage. The mechanical Bosch VE pump is robust but sensitive to fuel contamination; use of clean, low-sulfur diesel is critical. Regular oil changes with mineral 15W-40 are essential, as diesel dilution from injector pump leaks is a known issue per Fiat Group SIB T.87.03.

Data Verification Notes

Oil Specs: Requires SAE 15W-40 meeting API CC/CD or equivalent (Fiat Group Owner's Manual 1988).

Emissions: Formal Euro 1 certification applies to later production models only (EU Regulation 83/351/EEC). Early models adhere to national standards.

Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Peak figures vary by model year and market specification (Fiat Group PT-1988).

Primary Sources

Fiat Group Technical Information System (TIS): Docs T.87.01, T.87.03

Fiat Group Parts Catalogue (ETK): Doc. 8144-001

EU Regulation 83/351/EEC (Emissions)

Fiat Group Product Technical Specification (PT-1988)

8144-97Y Compatible Models

The Lancia 8144.97 Y was used across Lancia's Delta/Prisma/Dedra platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received minor ECU and emissions updates throughout its production run, with the most significant being the introduction of an intercooler on later Dedra models, creating parts compatibility nuances. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.

Make:
Lancia
Years:
1987–1993
Models:
Delta (Type 831)
Variants:
Delta DGT, Delta 2.5 TD
View Source
Fiat Group PT-1988
Make:
Lancia
Years:
1987–1992
Models:
Prisma (Type 831)
Variants:
Prisma 2.5 TD
View Source
Fiat Group PT-1988
Make:
Lancia
Years:
1989–1995
Models:
Dedra (Type 835)
Variants:
Dedra 2.5 TD, Dedra 2.5 TDI (intercooled)
View Source
Fiat Group TIS Doc. T.89.05
Identification Guidance

Locate the engine code stamped on the flat machined surface of the cylinder block, near the fuel injection pump (Fiat TIS Doc. T.87.01). The 5th and 6th digits of the VIN often indicate engine type for these models. Visually, the engine is identified by its SOHC valve cover and the large, mechanical Bosch VE injection pump mounted on the side of the engine. Critical differentiation from non-turbo variants: the presence of the KKK turbocharger and associated plumbing. Service parts for the turbo and intercooler systems are not interchangeable between early non-intercooled and later intercooled Dedra variants.

Identification Details

Evidence:

Fiat Group TIS Doc. T.87.01

Location:

Stamped on the flat machined surface of the cylinder block, near the fuel injection pump (Fiat TIS Doc. T.87.01).

Visual Cues:

  • SOHC (single cam) valve cover.
  • Large Bosch VE mechanical injection pump on the engine's side.
  • KKK K14 turbocharger mounted at the exhaust manifold.
Compatibility Notes

Evidence:

  • Fiat Group SIB T.87.03
  • Fiat Group ETK Doc. 8144-001

Turbo System:

Early Delta/Prisma models use a non-intercooled turbo system. Later Dedra TDI models feature an air-to-air intercooler; turbochargers and manifolds are not directly interchangeable.

Injection Pump:

The Bosch VE pump is specific to this engine family. Calibration codes on the pump flange must match the engine variant for correct performance.

Common Reliability Issues - LANCIA 8144-97Y

The 8144.97 Y's primary reliability risk is neglect of the timing belt, with failure resulting in complete engine destruction. Bosch VE pump seal failure, leading to diesel contamination of engine oil, is a well-documented, common issue per Fiat Group service data. Adherence to maintenance schedules is critical for long-term reliability.

Timing belt failure
Symptoms: Sudden engine stoppage, loud clattering noise on startup, inability to restart engine.
Cause: Interference engine design; belt failure or slippage causes pistons to contact open valves, destroying engine internals.
Fix: Replace timing belt, tensioner, and idler pulleys at or before 60,000 km intervals using OEM-specified parts.
Bosch VE pump seal failure
Symptoms: Rising oil level on dipstick, diesel smell in oil, loss of power, excessive smoke.
Cause: Worn internal seals in the mechanical injection pump allow diesel fuel to leak into the engine's lubrication system, diluting the oil.
Fix: Remove and rebuild the injection pump with new seals, or replace with a calibrated OEM unit. Change engine oil and filter immediately.
Turbocharger failure
Symptoms: Loss of power, excessive blue or black smoke, whistling or whining noise from engine bay.
Cause: Oil starvation due to clogged feed lines or worn bearings, or damage from foreign object ingestion.
Fix: Inspect and replace turbocharger with OEM unit. Ensure oil feed and return lines are clean and unobstructed.
Glow plug system faults
Symptoms: Difficulty starting, especially in cold weather, rough idle on startup, white smoke until warm.
Cause: Worn or failed glow plugs, or a faulty glow plug relay/timer preventing pre-heating of the combustion chambers.
Fix: Test and replace faulty glow plugs and/or relay with OEM parts. Ensure battery is in good condition to provide sufficient cranking power.
Research Basis

Analysis derived from Fiat Group technical bulletins (1987-1995) and EU regulatory data. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.

Frequently Asked Questions about LANCIA 8144-97Y

Find answers to most commonly asked questions about LANCIA 8144-97Y.

Research Resources

Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references

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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007

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Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151

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Last Updated: 16 August 2025

All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialLANCIA documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed“ .

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