Engine Code

LANCIA A112-A-000 engine (1969–1973) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

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.

Lancia Engine
Compliance Note:

Production years 1969–1973 meet the emissions and safety standards applicable in the European Community for that period (EC Directive 70/220/EEC).

A112-A-000 Technical Specifications

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.

ParameterValueSource
Displacement903 cc
Fuel typePetrol
ConfigurationInline-4, SOHC, 8-valve
AspirationNaturally aspirated
Bore × stroke65.0 mm × 68.0 mm
Power output32 kW (44 PS) @ 5,600 rpm
Torque68 Nm @ 3,400 rpm
Fuel systemSingle downdraft carburetor
Emissions standardEC Directive 70/220/EEC
Compression ratio9.0:1
Cooling systemWater-cooled
TurbochargerNone
Timing systemChain-driven (requires periodic inspection)
Oil typeSAE 20W-50 (API SC/SD)
Dry weight95 kg
Practical Implications

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.

Data Verification Notes

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).

Primary Sources

Lancia A112 Workshop Manual, Edition 1970

Lancia Technical Bulletin: TB-69-01

European Commission: Directive 70/220/EEC

Lancia Engineering Report: ER-68-03

A112-A-000 Compatible Models

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.

Make:
Lancia
Years:
1969–1973
Models:
A112
Variants:
First Series
View Source
Lancia Group PT-1972
Identification Guidance

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.

Platform Specific

Evidence:

Lancia Technical Bulletin TB-69-01

Mounting:

Fitted transversely with specific engine mounts and intake routing for the A112 platform.
Critical Maintenance

Evidence:

Lancia A112 Service Schedule, Ed. 1969

Timing Chain:

Inspect timing chain tension and sprocket wear every 40,000 km; replacement recommended at 80,000 km.

Ignition System:

Pre-1971 engines should have the revised distributor advance mechanism (Part No. 8241130) installed during service per Lancia bulletin.

Common Reliability Issues - LANCIA A112-A-000

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.

Points ignition system failure
Symptoms: Engine misfires, rough idle, difficulty starting, reduced power.
Cause: Worn or pitted contact points, weak condenser, or incorrect dwell angle, common on high-mileage engines.
Fix: Replace points and condenser with OEM parts; set dwell angle and ignition timing to specification per service manual.
Carburetor issues
Symptoms: Hesitation, stalling, poor idle, fuel smell.
Cause: Clogged jets, worn throttle shafts, or incorrect float level in the single downdraft carburetor.
Fix: Disassemble, clean, and rebuild carburetor with OEM kit; adjust idle mixture and speed to specification.
Timing chain stretch or wear
Symptoms: Rattling noise from front of engine, ignition timing drift, reduced performance.
Cause: Chain elongation or sprocket wear over time, exacerbated by infrequent oil changes.
Fix: Replace timing chain and sprockets with OEM parts; verify valve timing after installation.
Oil leaks from valve cover gasket
Symptoms: Oil residue on top of engine, burning oil smell, gradual oil level drop.
Cause: Age-hardened gasket allows oil to seep out, a common issue on high-mileage engines.
Fix: Replace valve cover gasket with OEM part; ensure cover is torqued evenly to specification to prevent warping.
Research Basis

Analysis derived from Lancia technical bulletins (1969-1973) and European Commission type-approval records. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.

Frequently Asked Questions about LANCIA A112-A-000

Find answers to most commonly asked questions about LANCIA A112-A-000.

Research Resources

Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references

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Primary Sources

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.

Official Documentation

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Framework and processes ensuring data accuracy and compliance

Regulatory Context

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.

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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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