The Lancia AR 37101 is a 3,710 cc, narrow — angle V8 petrol engine produced between 1931 and 1937. It featured a single overhead camshaft per cylinder bank and side — valve configuration, delivering power outputs around 88 kW (120 PS). This 19° ‘V’ layout, known as a 'Lancia V8', was designed for compactness and smoothness, allowing a lower bonnet line for improved aerodynamics.
Fitted to the Lancia Artena model, the AR 37101 was engineered for executive touring refinement a…
Production years 1931–1937 predate formal emissions regulations. This engine was designed and certified for use under the vehicle standards of the Kingdom of Italy in the 1930s.
The Lancia AR 37101 is a 3,710 cc narrow-angle V8 petrol engine engineered for luxury saloons (1931-1937). It combines a single overhead camshaft per bank with a side-valve layout to deliver smooth, refined power. Designed before the era of emissions standards, it prioritizes mechanical elegance and torque for its time.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 3,710 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol | |
Configuration | Narrow-angle V8 (19°), SOHC per bank, Side-valve | |
Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
Bore × stroke | 80.0 mm × 92.0 mm | |
Power output | 88 kW (120 PS) @ 3,800 rpm | |
Torque | Not officially recorded (estimated high for era) | |
Fuel system | Single Weber carburettor | |
Emissions standard | None (Pre-regulation era) | |
Compression ratio | 5.75:1 | |
Cooling system | Water-cooled, centrifugal pump | |
Turbocharger | None | |
Timing system | Gear-driven SOHC per bank | |
Oil type | SAE 40 mineral oil (non-detergent) | |
Dry weight | Approx. 330 kg |
The Lancia AR 37101 was used exclusively in Lancia's Artena platform with longitudinal mounting and was not licensed to other manufacturers. This engine received no platform-specific adaptations as it was bespoke to the Artena. All technical details are documented in original factory service bulletins and engineering reports.
The AR 37101's primary reliability risk is overheating in the valley between its narrow V cylinder banks, with elevated incidence in traffic or hot climates. Lancia service bulletins from the 1930s emphasized radiator maintenance, while modern preservation guides note that cooling system neglect is the leading cause of major failure. Infrequent operation and use of incorrect coolant make adherence to period maintenance procedures critical.
Analysis derived from Lancia technical bulletins (1931-1937) and Lancia Historical Society preservation guidelines (2000-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
The most common questions about engine codes, what they mean, how to find them and how this database works
For its era, the AR 37101 was a sophisticated and relatively reliable engine. Its long-term survival depends entirely on meticulous, period-correct maintenance. Keeping the cooling system in perfect order and using the correct oil are the two most critical factors. Neglect, especially of the cooling system, will lead to catastrophic failure.
The most common issues are overheating due to the narrow V design, wear on the camshaft timing gears, leaks from the carburettor float bowl, and sludge buildup in the oil system. These are all consequences of the engine's age and the specific maintenance practices required to preserve it.
The AR 37101 engine was used exclusively in the Lancia Artena, produced from 1931 to 1937. It was available in Berlina (saloon) and Cabriolet body styles. No other Lancia or external manufacturer used this specific engine.
Significant tuning is impractical and historically inappropriate. Minor improvements could be made by optimizing the carburettor or ignition, but the engine's low compression ratio and mechanical design severely limit potential. The focus for this engine should be on preservation and reliable operation, not performance enhancement.
Official figures are unavailable, but estimates for the Artena suggest around 18-22 L/100km (13-16 mpg UK). This is typical for a large, low-compression, luxury car of the early 1930s. Fuel efficiency was not a primary design consideration for vehicles in this class at the time.
No. The AR 37101 uses a side-valve (flathead) design. In this configuration, the valves are located in the engine block beside the pistons, making it physically impossible for them to collide with the pistons, even if the timing system fails completely.
It requires a non-detergent SAE 40 mineral oil, as specified in the original 1931 owner's manual. Modern multi-grade or detergent oils can damage the original babbit bearings by washing away their protective oil film, leading to rapid wear and engine seizure.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
Independent Technical Reference
EngineCode.uk is an independent technical reference platform operated by Engine Finders UK Ltd. We are not affiliated with LANCIA or any other manufacturer. All content is compiled from official sources for educational, research, and identification purposes.
Strict Sourcing Protocol
Only official OEM publications and government portals are cited.
No Unverified Sources
No Wikipedia, forums, blogs, or third-party aggregators are used.
Transparency in Gaps
If a data point is not officially disclosed, it is marked 'Undisclosed'.
Regulatory Stability
EU regulations are referenced using CELEX identifiers for long-term stability.
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.
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.
Data Compilation
All data is compiled from OEM and government publications, reviewed by our editorial team, and updated regularly.
Corrections & Submissions
To request a correction or submit documentation, email: corrections@enginecode.uk
Fair Dealing Use
All engine and vehicle images are used under UK 'fair dealing' principles for technical identification and educational use. Rights remain with their respective owners.
Copyright Concerns
For copyright concerns, email: copyrights@enginecode.uk
GDPR Compliance
EngineCode.uk complies with UK GDPR. We do not collect personal data unless explicitly provided.
Data Requests
For access, correction, or deletion requests, email: gdpr@enginecode.uk
Trademark Notice
All trademarks, logos, and engine codes are the property of their respective owners. Use on this site is strictly for reference and identification.
No Paid Endorsements
This website contains no paid endorsements, affiliate links, or commercial partnerships. We do not sell parts or services.
Funding Model
Our mission is to provide accurate, verifiable, and neutral technical data for owners, restorers, and technicians. This site is self-funded.
All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialLANCIA documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed”.
All external links open in new tabs. Please verify current availability of resources.