The Lancia Appia 1.1L V4 is a 1,089 cc, 60-degree V4 petrol engine produced between 1953 and 1963. It features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) design with two valves per cylinder and a downdraft carburetor, delivering modest power with exceptional smoothness for its era. The engine’s narrow 60-degree V configuration and balance shaft contribute to its remarkably low vibration, a signature Lancia engineering trait.
Fitted exclusively to the Lancia Appia sedan, coupe, and convertible, this engine was engineered for refined, economical motoring in post-war Europe. Emissions compliance for its production period was not formally regulated, but its simple carbureted design produced emissions typical of early 1950s automotive standards. The engine’s compact size and light weight were key to the Appia’s agile handling.
One documented engineering focus was the durability of the timing chain and camshaft drive, critical for long-term reliability. Early service bulletins (Lancia Internal Memo 54/01) recommended specific lubricants and tensioner adjustments to mitigate wear on the chain-driven SOHC system, a novel design for mass-produced cars at the time.
Production years 1953–1963 predate formal European emissions regulations for passenger cars. Emissions output is consistent with unregulated petrol engines of the early 1950s.
The Lancia Appia 1.1L V4 is a 1,089 cc 60-degree V4 petrol engine engineered for compact executive cars (1953-1963). It combines a SOHC 8-valve cylinder head with a single downdraft carburetor to deliver smooth, economical performance. Designed before formal emissions standards, it prioritizes mechanical refinement and compact packaging over high output.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,089 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | 60° V4, SOHC, 8-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 69.0 mm × 72.6 mm | |
| Power output | 38 kW (52 PS) @ 5,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 88 Nm @ 2,800 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Single downdraft carburetor (Solex or Weber) | |
| Emissions standard | None (pre-regulation era) | |
| Compression ratio | 7.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven SOHC | |
| Oil type | SAE 20W-50 (min. API SA) | |
| Dry weight | 115 kg |
The V4’s smooth power delivery is ideal for relaxed cruising but requires strict 5,000 km service intervals to maintain the timing chain and valve train. Regular-grade petrol (RON 87) is sufficient due to the low compression ratio. The simple carburetor system is easy to service but demands precise adjustment for optimal running. Early service bulletins (Lancia Memo 54/01) emphasize using the correct oil viscosity to ensure proper lubrication of the chain-driven camshaft.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 20W-50 meeting API SA or equivalent (Lancia Owner's Manual). Modern mineral oils meeting API SL are suitable for classic use.
Emissions: No formal emissions standards existed for passenger cars in Europe during this production period (1953-1963).
Power Ratings: Measured under Italian homologation standards of the 1950s. Output is for the standard Appia Berlina configuration.
Lancia Engineering Specification Sheets (V4/53)
Lancia Appia Workshop Manual & Owner's Manual (1956)
Lancia Internal Service Memos (54/01)
Italian Ministry of Transport Type Approval Archives
The Lancia Appia 1.1L V4 was used exclusively in the Lancia Appia platform with longitudinal mounting. This unique V4 engine, a hallmark of Lancia's innovative engineering, received specific adaptations for different body styles (Berlina, Coupe, Convertible), primarily involving exhaust routing and engine mounts. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The engine code is typically not stamped; identification is by displacement and V4 configuration. The most definitive visual identifier is the narrow 60-degree V-angle and the single cam cover running the length of the engine. The engine is visually distinct from later Lancia engines due to its compact size and unique layout. The presence of a balance shaft (visible upon sump removal) is a key differentiator from other contemporary four-cylinder engines.
The Appia V4's primary maintenance focus is its timing chain and carburetor. Lancia service data indicates that neglecting chain tension or using incorrect oil can lead to premature camshaft wear. Adherence to the factory maintenance schedule is critical for long-term reliability of this historically significant engine.
Analysis derived from Lancia workshop manuals (1953-1963) and Italian type approval documentation. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about LANCIA APPIA-1L-V4.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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LANCIA Official Site
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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
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