The Lancia 838 B.000 – Petrol is a 1,498 cc, inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine produced between 1985 and 1992. It features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) design and electronic fuel injection, delivering outputs of 85 kW (115 PS) and 162 Nm of torque. Its turbocharger enables strong low-end response for spirited driving.
Fitted to performance-oriented models like the Delta HF Turbo, the 838 B.000 was engineered for rally-bred handling and rapid acceleration. Emissions compliance for its era was managed through its electronic fuel injection and catalytic converter, allowing it to meet Euro 1 standards for the European market during its later production years.
One documented characteristic is the potential for turbocharger failure if lubrication is inadequate. This issue, noted in Lancia service bulletins, is often linked to extended oil change intervals or low oil levels. In 1987, Lancia introduced revisions to the turbo oil feed system to improve reliability.
Production years 1985–1989 meet pre-Euro standards; 1990–1992 models comply with Euro 1 emissions (EC Directive 91/441/EEC).
The Lancia 838 B.000 – Petrol is a 1,498 cc inline-four turbocharged petrol engine engineered for performance hatchbacks (1985-1992). It combines SOHC architecture with electronic fuel injection and a turbocharger to deliver accessible torque. Designed to meet evolving emissions standards, it balances rally-inspired performance with road-going practicality.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,498 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, SOHC, 8-valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 78.0 mm × 78.4 mm | |
| Power output | 85 kW (115 PS) @ 5,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 162 Nm @ 2,750 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Weber-Marelli IAW electronic fuel injection | |
| Emissions standard | Pre-Euro (1985–1989); Euro 1 (1990–1992) | |
| Compression ratio | 8.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | IHI turbocharger | |
| Timing system | Belt-driven (requires periodic replacement) | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-40 (API SG/CC) | |
| Dry weight | 132 kg |
The turbocharged engine provides strong low-end torque ideal for overtaking but requires strict adherence to 10,000 km oil change intervals to prevent turbo bearing failure. Using the specified SAE 10W-40 oil is critical for maintaining turbocharger health. The Weber-Marelli injection system demands clean fuel and regular sensor checks. The timing belt, which also drives the water pump, must be replaced every 60,000 km to prevent catastrophic engine damage. Post-1987 models feature an improved turbo oil feed line per Lancia bulletin.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 10W-40, API SG/CC specification (Lancia Delta Owner's Manual, Ed. 1985).
Emissions: Euro 1 certification applies to 1990-1992 models only (EC Directive 91/441/EEC). Pre-1990 models have no formal Euro standard.
Power Ratings: Measured under EEC 80/1269 standards (Lancia Group PT-1990).
Lancia Delta Workshop Manual, Edition 1986
Lancia Technical Bulletin: TB-85-04
European Commission: Directive 91/441/EEC
Lancia Engineering Report: ER-84-09
The Lancia 838 B.000 – Petrol was used primarily in the Lancia Delta platform with transverse front-wheel-drive mounting. This engine powered the early HF Turbo variants and received specific adaptations for boost control and cooling. 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 Workshop Manual). The 8th digit of the VIN is 'H' for vehicles equipped with this 1.5L turbo engine. Visually, it is identifiable by its top-mounted turbocharger. Critical differentiation from other Delta engines: This is the only turbocharged 1.5L engine in the lineup. Service parts, particularly the turbocharger and manifold, are specific to the HF Turbo model and vary from later 2.0L turbo units.
The 838 B.000 – Petrol's primary reliability risk is turbocharger failure due to inadequate lubrication or overheating. Lancia service documentation highlights this as a common failure mode in vehicles with neglected oil changes. UK MOT statistics from the 1990s frequently cited oil leaks and emissions faults on high-mileage examples. Adherence to the manufacturer's oil change and timing belt schedule is critical for longevity.
Analysis derived from Lancia technical bulletins (1985-1992) and European Commission type-approval records. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about LANCIA 838-B-000.
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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