The Lancia 834 C.146 is a 1,995 cc, inline‑four petrol engine produced between 1985 and 1994. It features a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) design and multi-point fuel injection, delivering outputs ranging from 103 kW (140 PS) to 110 kW (150 PS) with torque figures around 172–186 Nm. Its twin-cam layout enables precise valve control for responsive performance.
Fitted primarily to the Delta HF Integrale and late-model Delta HF Turbo, the 834 C.146 was engineered for spirited driving and rally-bred handling. Emissions compliance for its era was managed through catalytic converters and lambda sensors, allowing it to meet prevailing Euro 1 standards in later production years.
One documented concern is premature wear of the camshaft drive belt, which can lead to catastrophic engine failure if neglected. This maintenance-critical item, highlighted in Lancia Service Bulletin L‑85‑09, requires replacement at strict intervals due to its role in an interference engine design. Later models saw minor revisions to tensioner components.
Production years 1985–1992 meet pre-Euro standards; 1993–1994 models may have Euro 1 compliance depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/LAN/834).
The Lancia 834 C.146 is a 1,995 cc inline‑four petrol engine engineered for performance hatchbacks (1985-1994). It combines DOHC architecture with multi-point fuel injection to deliver responsive power delivery and high-revving character. Designed to meet Euro 1 standards in later variants, it balances rally heritage with road usability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,995 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 8‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged (IHI or Garrett) | |
| Bore × stroke | 85.0 mm × 88.0 mm | |
| Power output | 103–110 kW (140–150 PS) | |
| Torque | 172–186 Nm @ 3,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch L-Jetronic multi-point injection | |
| Emissions standard | Pre-Euro / Euro 1 (1993+) | |
| Compression ratio | 8.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | IHI VF22 or Garrett T3 (depending on variant) | |
| Timing system | Toothed belt (interference design) | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-40 (mineral or semi-synthetic) | |
| Dry weight | 148 kg |
The turbocharged setup provides strong mid-range pull ideal for spirited driving but demands strict 60,000 km cam belt replacement intervals to prevent catastrophic valve/piston contact. Mineral or semi-synthetic 10W-40 oil is specified to handle turbo heat soak. The Bosch L-Jetronic system requires precise lambda sensor function; a faulty sensor rapidly degrades fuel economy and emissions. Intercooler hoses and vacuum lines are common failure points under boost; inspect regularly. Pre-1993 models lack OBD, complicating diagnostics.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 10W-40 specification (Lancia Owner's Manual 1990). Fully synthetic oils were not OEM-approved for this generation.
Emissions: Euro 1 certification applies to 1993-1994 models only (VCA Type Approval #VCA/LAN/834). Pre-1993 models are pre-Euro.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. 110 kW output requires 95 RON minimum fuel (Lancia TIS Doc. L834-A10).
Lancia Technical Information System (TIS): Docs L834-A01, L834-A05, L834-A10
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/LAN/834)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Lancia 834 C.146 was used exclusively in Lancia's Delta platform with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced engine mounts and specific intercooler routing for the HF Integrale-and from 1990 the facelifted Integrale 16V models adopted a revised cylinder head, creating some parts incompatibility. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front face of the cylinder block, near the timing belt cover (Lancia TIS L834-ID01). The 8th VIN digit often corresponds to engine code ('8' for 834 series). Early 8V models have a single cam cover; 16V models have a wider, two-piece cam cover. Critical differentiation: 8V uses IHI turbo (round compressor housing), 16V often uses Garrett (more rectangular housing). Service parts like cam belts and tensioners differ between 8V and 16V variants (Lancia SIB L-90-02).
The 834 C.146's primary reliability risk is timing belt failure, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or poorly maintained examples. Lancia service data indicates a significant portion of failures occur beyond the 70,000 km mark, while owner club surveys frequently cite turbo oil seal leaks as a secondary concern. Neglected maintenance and use of incorrect oil make adherence to the 60,000 km belt interval critical.
Analysis derived from Lancia technical bulletins (1985-1995) and owner club technical surveys (1995-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about LANCIA 834-C-146.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
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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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