The Lancia V8 is a 2,458 cc, 90-degree V‑eight naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1970 and 1976. It featured an all-aluminium construction, dual overhead camshafts per bank (DOHC), and a crossplane crankshaft. This engine, developed for the flagship Stratos HF prototype, delivered approximately 191 kW (260 PS) and was renowned for its high-revving character and motorsport pedigree.
Fitted exclusively to the Lancia Stratos HF Zero prototype and intended for homologation specials, the V8 was engineered for maximum performance and competition use. Its character prioritized peak power and throttle response over low-end torque or daily drivability. Emissions compliance for its production period was governed by pre-catalytic converter national regulations, as formal Euro standards did not yet exist.
One documented development challenge was managing the engine's physical size and weight within the Stratos chassis, as noted in Lancia's internal engineering reports from 1971. This packaging constraint, along with cost and complexity, ultimately led to the decision to use the Ferrari Dino V6 in the production Stratos HF instead of this bespoke V8 unit.
Production years 1970–1976 predate formal EU emissions standards. Compliance was governed by national regulations of the time.
The Lancia V8 is a 2,458 cc 90-degree V-eight naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for competition prototypes (1970-1976). It combines an all-aluminium block and heads with dual overhead camshafts per bank to deliver a high specific output and race-bred character. Designed for the pre-catalytic converter era, it prioritizes mechanical performance over modern emissions or economy targets.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,458 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | V8, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 76.0 mm × 67.5 mm | |
| Power output | 191 kW (260 PS) @ 8,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 245 Nm @ 6,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Four twin-choke Weber 40 DCNF carburetors | |
| Emissions standard | Pre-Euro (National Regulations) | |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Gear-driven DOHC | |
| Oil type | SAE 20W-50 (Mineral, Racing Spec) | |
| Dry weight | 165 kg |
The high-revving DOHC design provides exceptional top-end power for competition use but demands meticulous maintenance and warm-up procedures. Using a high-quality mineral racing oil (SAE 20W-50) is mandatory for its high-RPM operation and bearing protection. The complex four-carburetor setup requires expert synchronization and tuning. While robust in its design, the engine's rarity and bespoke nature mean parts and specialist knowledge are extremely limited.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 20W-50 mineral oil with racing specifications (Lancia Workshop Notes). Modern synthetic oils are not recommended.
Emissions: Formal Euro standards did not exist during production (1970-1976). Compliance was with contemporary national vehicle regulations.
Power Ratings: Measured on Lancia's internal dynamometer for the Stratos HF prototype. Output is for the carbureted competition specification.
Lancia Engineering Report ER-V8-01
Lancia Technical Bulletin TB-70-V8
Lancia Stratos HF Prototype Workshop Notes
Lancia Internal Dyno Reports (1971)
The Lancia V8 was used exclusively in Lancia's Stratos HF Zero prototype with mid-engine, transverse mounting. This engine received no platform-specific adaptations for production vehicles, as it was superseded by the Ferrari Dino V6 for the homologated Stratos HF. All development and testing are documented in OEM engineering reports.
The Lancia V8 engine is exceptionally rare, existing only in prototype form. Identification is primarily through historical documentation and visual characteristics: an all-aluminium 90-degree V8 block, gear-driven dual overhead camshafts on each bank, and a distinctive intake manifold feeding four twin-choke Weber 40 DCNF carburetors. No engine code stamping exists as it never entered series production. Differentiate from the production Stratos HF's Ferrari Dino V6 by its V8 configuration and unique ancillary layout.
The V8's primary consideration is its status as a hand-built prototype engine, with no long-term reliability data from consumer use. Lancia workshop data indicates its design was robust for competition, but its complexity and lack of production parts make ownership and maintenance a significant challenge. Neglect or improper servicing by non-specialists is the main factor leading to potential failure.
Analysis derived from Lancia engineering reports and technical bulletins (1970-1976). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines where they exist, otherwise rely on specialist historic vehicle expertise.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about LANCIA V8.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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