The Lancia A112 A.000 – Petrol is a 903 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1969 and 1973. It features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) design and carbureted fuel delivery, delivering outputs of 32 kW (44 PS) and 68 Nm of torque. Its simple, robust architecture provides predictable power delivery for economical city commuting.
Fitted exclusively to the first series A112 platform, the A112 A.000 was engineered for cost-effective ownership and nimble urban driving. Emissions compliance for its era was managed through its basic carburetion and mechanical ignition, meeting the prevailing standards for light vehicles in the European Community during its production run.
One documented characteristic is the potential for points ignition system wear over time. This issue, noted in Lancia service bulletins, can lead to misfires and rough running if not inspected during routine maintenance. In 1971, Lancia revised the distributor advance mechanism to improve reliability.

Production years 1969–1973 meet the emissions and safety standards applicable in the European Community for that period (EC Directive 70/220/EEC).
The Lancia A112 A.000 – Petrol is a 903 cc inline-four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for compact city cars (1969-1973). It combines SOHC architecture with carbureted fuel delivery to deliver smooth, linear power. Designed to meet the emissions standards of its era, it balances simplicity with dependable urban performance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 903 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, SOHC, 8-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 65.0 mm × 68.0 mm | |
| Power output | 32 kW (44 PS) @ 5,600 rpm | |
| Torque | 68 Nm @ 3,400 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Single downdraft carburetor | |
| Emissions standard | EC Directive 70/220/EEC | |
| Compression ratio | 9.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven (requires periodic inspection) | |
| Oil type | SAE 20W-50 (API SC/SD) | |
| Dry weight | 95 kg |
The naturally aspirated engine provides smooth, predictable power ideal for city driving but requires periodic inspection of the timing chain and points ignition system to prevent drivability issues. Using the specified SAE 20W-50 oil is critical for maintaining bearing clearances in the absence of modern filtration. The simple carburetor demands periodic cleaning and adjustment. The 1971 revision to the distributor improved reliability; pre-1971 engines should have the updated advance mechanism installed during service.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 20W-50, API SC/SD specification (Lancia A112 Owner's Manual, Ed. 1969).
Emissions: Compliance with EC Directive 70/220/EEC applies to all production years (European Commission EUR-Lex).
Power Ratings: Measured under EEC 80/1269 standards (Lancia Group PT-1972).
Lancia A112 Workshop Manual, Edition 1970
Lancia Technical Bulletin: TB-69-01
European Commission: Directive 70/220/EEC
Lancia Engineering Report: ER-68-03
The Lancia A112 A.000 – Petrol was used exclusively in the Lancia A112 platform with transverse front-wheel-drive mounting. This engine received specific adaptations for the A112, 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 water pump (Lancia Workshop Manual). The 8th digit of the VIN is 'A' for vehicles equipped with this 903cc engine. Visually, it is identifiable by its simple carburetor and points-type distributor. Critical differentiation from later A112 engines: This is the smallest displacement and lowest power variant. Service parts, particularly the distributor and carburetor, are specific to the A.000 variant.
The A112 A.000 – Petrol's primary reliability risk is points ignition system failure due to wear and arcing, especially in high-mileage examples. Lancia service documentation highlights this as a common cause of misfires and rough running. Adherence to the manufacturer's ignition and timing chain inspection schedule is critical for longevity.
Analysis derived from Lancia technical bulletins (1969-1973) and European Commission type-approval records. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about LANCIA A112-A-000.
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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