The Lancia Kappa 3.0L – Petrol is a 2,959 cc, 60-degree V6 naturally aspirated engine produced between 1994 and 2000. It features a dual overhead camshaft per cylinder bank with four valves per cylinder, delivering smooth, refined power for executive touring. The engine’s aluminum block and heads, coupled with variable intake geometry, were engineered for broad torque delivery and low NVH.
Fitted to the Lancia Kappa sedan and coupé, the 3.0L V6 was designed for quiet, effortless cruising and strong overtaking ability. It offered a linear power curve and mechanical refinement, making it well-suited for long-distance motorway travel. Emissions compliance was achieved through multi-point fuel injection and catalytic converters, meeting Euro 2 standards for its production period.
One documented reliability concern is premature failure of the plastic intake manifold, which can develop cracks leading to vacuum leaks and lean running conditions. This issue, highlighted in Lancia Service Bulletin L‑97‑08, is often linked to material fatigue under sustained heat cycles. In 1998, Lancia introduced a revised, more robust manifold design to mitigate the problem.
Production years 1994–2000 meet Euro 2 standards (EU Regulation (EC) No 715/2007, Annex I, historical application).
The Lancia Kappa 3.0L – Petrol is a 2,959 cc 60-degree V6 naturally aspirated engine engineered for executive sedans and coupés (1994-2000). It combines a dual DOHC valvetrain with variable intake geometry to deliver broad, linear power and refined operation. Designed to meet Euro 2 emissions standards, it balances luxury comfort with competent performance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,959 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | V6 (60°), DOHC per bank, 24‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 88.0 mm × 81.0 mm | |
| Power output | 204–210 PS (150–155 kW) | |
| Torque | 26.5–27.5 kgm @ 4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch Motronic MPI | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 2 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Belt-driven DOHC (dual belts) | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-40 (Mineral/Semi-Synthetic) | |
| Dry weight | 178 kg |
The DOHC V6 provides smooth, refined power ideal for luxury cruising but requires strict 60,000 km timing belt changes to prevent interference engine damage. SAE 10W-40 oil is recommended for optimal protection. The plastic intake manifold (pre-1998) is prone to cracking; verify or upgrade to the revised manifold per Lancia SIB L‑97‑08. The Bosch Motronic system demands clean electrical grounds and quality fuel for reliable operation.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 10W-40 mineral or semi-synthetic oil (Lancia Owner's Manual, 1995).
Emissions: Euro 2 certification applies to all 1994–2000 models (EU Regulation (EC) No 715/2007, Annex I).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output is consistent across model years (Lancia Factory Data Sheet, 1998).
Lancia Technical Workshop Manual (Sections 02, 03)
Lancia Parts Catalogue (Doc. PC-KAP-94)
Lancia Service Bulletin (L‑97‑08)
EU Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
The Lancia Kappa 3.0L – Petrol was used across Lancia's Kappa platform with longitudinal, front-mounted installation. This engine received no major platform-specific adaptations across its production run, though intake manifold revisions were implemented in 1998. All specifications are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine type code stamped on the flat boss on the front face of the left cylinder bank. The full designation "838A1000" should be visible. Early models (pre-1998) have a black plastic intake manifold with visible ribbing. Post-1998 models feature a revised, more robust manifold design. Critical differentiation: All Kappa 3.0L engines are 24-valve units; no 12-valve variant was offered in this displacement.
The Kappa 3.0L – Petrol's primary reliability risk is plastic intake manifold failure, with elevated incidence in pre-1998 examples. Lancia workshop data from the late 1990s indicated this was a leading cause of drivability complaints, while timing belt failure is a catastrophic risk if neglected. Neglecting coolant changes and using incorrect oil accelerates wear, making adherence to the original maintenance schedule critical.
Analysis derived from Lancia technical bulletins (1994-2000) and historical workshop manuals. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about LANCIA KAPPA-3-0L.
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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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