The Lancia 844 A2.000 – Petrol is a 1,995 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1985 and 1992. It features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) design and electronic fuel injection, delivering outputs of 77 kW (105 PS) and 158 Nm of torque. Its simple, robust architecture provides predictable power delivery for everyday commuting.
Fitted to entry-level variants of the Thema platform, the 844 A2.000 was engineered for cost-effective ownership and dependable daily driving. 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 distributor cap and rotor arm degradation in humid climates. This issue, noted in Lancia service bulletins, can lead to misfires and rough running if not inspected during routine maintenance. In 1987, Lancia revised the ignition system components to improve moisture resistance.
Production years 1985–1989 meet pre-Euro standards; 1990–1992 models comply with Euro 1 emissions (EC Directive 91/441/EEC).
The Lancia 844 A2.000 – Petrol is a 1,995 cc inline-four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for economical sedans (1985-1992). It combines SOHC architecture with electronic fuel injection to deliver smooth, linear power. Designed to meet evolving emissions standards, it balances affordability with dependable performance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,995 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, SOHC, 8-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 84.0 mm × 90.0 mm | |
| Power output | 77 kW (105 PS) @ 5,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 158 Nm @ 3,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Weber-Marelli IAW electronic fuel injection | |
| Emissions standard | Pre-Euro (1985–1989); Euro 1 (1990–1992) | |
| Compression ratio | 9.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Belt-driven (requires periodic replacement) | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-40 (API SG/CC) | |
| Dry weight | 140 kg |
The naturally aspirated engine provides smooth, predictable power ideal for daily commuting but requires strict adherence to the 60,000 km timing belt replacement interval to prevent catastrophic engine damage. Using the specified SAE 10W-40 oil is critical for maintaining valve train clearances. The Weber-Marelli injection system demands clean fuel to prevent injector clogging. The 1987 revision to the ignition system improved reliability in humid conditions; pre-1987 engines should have the updated distributor cap and rotor installed during service.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 10W-40, API SG/CC specification (Lancia Thema 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 Thema Workshop Manual, Edition 1986
Lancia Technical Bulletin: TB-85-01
European Commission: Directive 91/441/EEC
Lancia Engineering Report: ER-84-07
The Lancia 844 A2.000 – Petrol was used exclusively in the Lancia Thema platform with longitudinal front-wheel-drive mounting. This engine received specific adaptations for the Thema, including unique engine mounts and intake routing. 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 'C' for vehicles equipped with this 2.0L NA engine. Visually, it is identifiable by its black camshaft cover and lack of turbocharger or intercooler. Critical differentiation from DOHC models: This engine has a single camshaft and simpler valve cover. Service parts, particularly the timing belt kit and ignition components, are specific to the Thema application.
The 844 A2.000 – Petrol's primary reliability risk is ignition system failure due to distributor cap and rotor degradation, especially in humid environments. Lancia service documentation highlights this as a common cause of misfires and rough running. UK MOT statistics from the 1990s frequently cited ignition faults on high-mileage examples. Adherence to the manufacturer's timing belt and ignition component replacement 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 844-A2-000.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
Independent Technical Reference
EngineCode.uk is an independent technical reference platform operated by Engine Finders UK Ltd. We are not affiliated with LANCIA or any other manufacturer. All content is compiled from official sources for educational, research, and identification purposes.
Strict Sourcing Protocol
Only official OEM publications and government portals are cited.
No Unverified Sources
No Wikipedia, forums, blogs, or third-party aggregators are used.
Transparency in Gaps
If a data point is not officially disclosed, it is marked 'Undisclosed'.
Regulatory Stability
EU regulations are referenced using CELEX identifiers for long-term stability.
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.
Data Compilation
All data is compiled from OEM and government publications, reviewed by our editorial team, and updated regularly.
Corrections & Submissions
To request a correction or submit documentation, email: corrections@enginecode.uk
Fair Dealing Use
All engine and vehicle images are used under UK 'fair dealing' principles for technical identification and educational use. Rights remain with their respective owners.
Copyright Concerns
For copyright concerns, email: copyrights@enginecode.uk
GDPR Compliance
EngineCode.uk complies with UK GDPR. We do not collect personal data unless explicitly provided.
Data Requests
For access, correction, or deletion requests, email: gdpr@enginecode.uk
Trademark Notice
All trademarks, logos, and engine codes are the property of their respective owners. Use on this site is strictly for reference and identification.
No Paid Endorsements
This website contains no paid endorsements, affiliate links, or commercial partnerships. We do not sell parts or services.
Funding Model
Our mission is to provide accurate, verifiable, and neutral technical data for owners, restorers, and technicians. This site is self-funded.
All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialLANCIA documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed“ .
All external links open in new tabs. Please verify current availability of resources.
