The Lancia AR 32501 is a 1,995 cc, inline‑four petrol engine produced between 1985 and 1992. It features a twin‑choke carburettor, single overhead camshaft (SOHC) design, and delivers 85 kW (116 PS). The hemispherical combustion chamber design promotes efficient fuel burn for responsive throttle feel.
Fitted primarily to the Lancia Thema 8.32 and select Delta models, the AR 32501 was engineered for spirited driving and refined cruising. Emissions compliance for its era was managed through secondary air injection and an exhaust gas oxygen sensor, meeting Euro 1 standards.
One documented concern is premature wear of the timing belt tensioner pulley, which can lead to belt slippage or failure if not inspected. This issue, referenced in Lancia Service Bulletin LB85/07, is often linked to material fatigue. A revised tensioner assembly was introduced for later production units.
Production years 1985–1992 meet Euro 1 standards as per EU Directive 88/77/EEC (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/8877).
The Lancia AR 32501 is a 1,995 cc inline‑four petrol engine engineered for executive sedans (1985-1992). It combines a twin‑choke carburettor with a hemispherical combustion chamber to deliver responsive performance and smooth power delivery. Designed to meet Euro 1 standards, it balances driver engagement with period‑appropriate efficiency.
| 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 | 85 kW (116 PS) @ 5,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 172 Nm @ 3,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Weber 32/36 DFEV twin‑choke carburettor | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 1 | |
| Compression ratio | 9.8:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Belt‑driven (requires 60,000 km replacement) | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W‑40 (API SF/CC) | |
| Dry weight | 148 kg |
The carburetted induction provides a linear power curve but requires periodic synchronization and jet cleaning to maintain optimal mixture. SAE 10W-40 oil is critical for protecting the flat-tappet camshaft design. The timing belt is an interference system; failure can cause catastrophic valve damage, making strict 60,000 km replacement intervals mandatory per Lancia SIB LB85/07. The secondary air injection system demands clean vacuum lines to prevent check engine lights. Carburettor rebuild kits are specific to the Weber 32/36 DFEV model.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 10W-40 with API SF/CC rating (Lancia Owner's Manual 1987). Modern equivalents must meet API SL or higher for zinc content.
Emissions: Euro 1 certification applies to all 1985–1992 models (EU Directive 88/77/EEC). No market-specific variations.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output is gross rating for carburetted engines (Lancia TIS Doc. L-8602).
Lancia Technical Information System (TIS): Docs L-8501, L-8602
Lancia Service Information Bulletin LB85/07
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Lancia AR 32501 was used across Lancia's Thema platform with longitudinal mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced engine mounts in the Thema and a specific exhaust manifold for the Delta Integrale homologation specials-and from 1988 the facelifted Thema models adopted minor ECU revisions for the lambda sensor, creating minor parts differences. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front face of the cylinder block, adjacent to the timing cover (Lancia TIS L-8510). The 8th VIN digit for Thema models indicates engine type ('3' for AR 32501). Pre-1988 units have a black plastic air cleaner housing; post-1988 units use a grey housing with integrated vacuum reservoir. Critical differentiation from later fuel-injected engines: AR 32501 has a prominent Weber carburettor with manual choke cable, while injected variants have a fuel rail and injectors. Timing belt kits are specific to pre/post 1988 production due to water pump pulley diameter changes (Lancia SIB LB88/12).
The AR 32501's primary reliability risk is timing belt failure due to tensioner pulley wear, with elevated incidence in high-mileage examples. Lancia service data indicated a significant portion of engines required tensioner replacement by 80,000 km, while owner club surveys highlight carburettor icing in cold, damp climates as a common drivability complaint. Infrequent use and extended oil change intervals accelerate camshaft lobe wear, making adherence to maintenance schedules critical.
Analysis derived from Lancia technical bulletins (1985-1992) and EU Directive 88/77/EEC compliance data. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about LANCIA AR32501.
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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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