Engine Code

LANCIA V6 engine (1994–2000) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

The Lancia V6 is a 2,959 cc, 60-degree V6 petrol engine produced between 1994 and 2000. It features a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) design with four valves per cylinder and electronic fuel injection, delivering smooth, refined power characteristic of a premium grand tourer. The engine’s 60-degree bank angle contributes to its inherent balance and low vibration, providing a serene driving experience.

Fitted primarily to the Lancia Kappa and its coupe/estate variants, the V6 was engineered for comfortable, high-speed cruising and effortless overtaking. Emissions compliance for its production period was managed through its sequential fuel injection system and catalytic converter, meeting the applicable European standards of the mid-to-late 1990s (Euro 2).

One documented engineering focus was minimizing NVH (Noise, Vibration, Harshness), a priority for the Kappa's luxury positioning. This led to specific mounting and acoustic insulation solutions, as detailed in Lancia service documentation. A known service bulletin (Lancia SIB 95/03) addresses potential oil consumption in early production units, linked to piston ring design.

Lancia Engine
Compliance Note:

Production years 1994–2000 meet the emissions standards applicable in the European Community for passenger cars during that period (EC Directive 94/12/EC - Euro 2).

V6 Technical Specifications

The Lancia V6 is a 2,959 cc 60-degree V6 petrol engine engineered for premium sedans and coupes (1994-2000). It combines a DOHC 24-valve cylinder head with sequential electronic fuel injection to deliver smooth, linear power. Designed to meet Euro 2 emissions standards, it prioritizes refinement and effortless performance over outright sportiness.

ParameterValueSource
Displacement2,959 cc
Fuel typePetrol
Configuration60° V6, DOHC, 24-valve
AspirationNaturally aspirated
Bore × stroke88.0 mm × 81.0 mm
Power output150 kW (205 PS) @ 5,750 rpm
Torque270 Nm @ 4,000 rpm
Fuel systemBosch Motronic M2.7 sequential fuel injection
Emissions standardEuro 2 (EC Directive 94/12/EC)
Compression ratio10.0:1
Cooling systemWater‑cooled
TurbochargerNone
Timing systemChain-driven DOHC
Oil typeSAE 10W-40 (min. API SG/CC)
Dry weight195 kg
Practical Implications

The V6’s smooth power delivery makes it ideal for relaxed touring but requires strict 15,000 km service intervals to maintain fuel injection and ignition system health. Premium unleaded fuel (95 RON minimum) is recommended. The sophisticated Motronic system demands qualified diagnostics for any running issues. Early production engines (pre-1996) may exhibit higher oil consumption; consult Lancia SIB 95/03 for inspection and potential piston ring replacement procedures.

Data Verification Notes

Oil Specs: Requires SAE 10W-40 meeting API SG/CC or equivalent (Lancia Owner's Manual). Modern ACEA A3/B4 oils are suitable replacements.

Emissions: Certification applies to all production years under EC Directive 94/12/EC (Euro 2) for passenger cars.

Power Ratings: Measured under EEC 80/1269 standards. Output is for the standard Kappa 3.0 V6 configuration.

Primary Sources

Lancia Technical Service Bulletins (94/08, 95/03)

Lancia Kappa Workshop Manual & Owner's Manual

EU Regulatory Archives: Directive 94/12/EC

Lancia Internal Engineering Specification Sheets

V6 Compatible Models

The Lancia V6 was used exclusively in the Lancia Kappa platform with longitudinal mounting. This engine, derived from the Fiat Group's premium V6 family, received specific calibrations and ancillary layouts for the Kappa. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.

Make:
Lancia
Years:
1994–2000
Models:
Kappa
Variants:
Sedan, Coupe, SW
View Source
Lancia Type Approval Documentation
Identification Guidance

The V6 engine code is typically stamped on the front face of the cylinder block, near the timing cover (Lancia Workshop Manual). The most definitive visual identifier is the “3.0 V6” badge on the rear of the vehicle and the unique “V” shaped cam cover design. The engine is visually distinct from the Kappa’s 4-cylinder engines due to its wider profile and twin exhaust manifolds. No parts are interchangeable with the 2.0L turbo engine.

Unique Heritage

Detail:

This V6 engine is part of the Fiat Group's 'Pratola Serra' engine family, also used in Alfa Romeo 164 and Fiat Croma models, though with different tuning and ancillaries for each brand.

Evidence:

Lancia Technical Service Bulletin 94/08
Maintenance Focus

Cooling:

Ensure the cooling system is bled correctly after any service to prevent airlocks, which can cause overheating in the rear cylinder bank.

Evidence:

  • Lancia SIB 95/03
  • Lancia Kappa Workshop Manual

Oil Consumption:

Early production engines (pre-1996) may have higher oil consumption. Refer to Lancia SIB 95/03 for diagnostic procedures and potential piston ring upgrades.

Common Reliability Issues - LANCIA V6

The V6's primary maintenance focus is its electronic fuel injection and ignition systems. Lancia service data indicates that neglecting spark plug and coil changes can lead to misfires and catalytic converter damage. Adherence to the factory maintenance schedule is critical for long-term reliability, especially for pre-1996 units regarding oil consumption.

Ignition coil failure
Symptoms: Engine misfire, rough idle, loss of power, check engine light with misfire codes.
Cause: Ageing or heat-damaged ignition coils, a common issue on high-mileage units.
Fix: Replace all ignition coils with OEM parts. It is often recommended to replace them as a set to prevent recurring issues.
Motronic ECU or sensor faults
Symptoms: Poor running, erratic idle, difficulty starting, multiple sensor-related fault codes.
Cause: Failing sensors (e.g., crankshaft position, camshaft position, oxygen sensors) or degraded wiring/connectors in the complex Motronic system.
Fix: Diagnose with proper equipment. Replace faulty sensors or wiring harness sections per Lancia workshop manual procedures. ECU replacement is rare but possible.
Oil consumption (early models)
Symptoms: Low oil level between services, blue smoke from exhaust (especially on startup or under load).
Cause: Design characteristic of early piston rings, leading to oil passing into the combustion chamber.
Fix: For excessive consumption, the engine may require disassembly to replace piston rings with the updated design specified in Lancia SIB 95/03.
Cooling system airlocks
Symptoms: Overheating, especially at low speeds or idle, inconsistent heater performance.
Cause: Improper bleeding of the cooling system after servicing, trapping air in the high points of the V6 engine, particularly around the rear cylinder bank.
Fix: Follow the specific bleeding procedure outlined in the Lancia Kappa workshop manual, which often involves running the engine with the heater on full and periodically topping up the coolant.
Research Basis

Analysis derived from Lancia technical bulletins (1994-2000) and EU type approval documentation. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.

Frequently Asked Questions about LANCIA V6

Find answers to most commonly asked questions about LANCIA V6.

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

Regulatory Compliance

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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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