The Lancia Musa 1.3 Multijet (90 hp) was a compact multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) produced by the Italian manufacturer Lancia between 2004 and 2007. Positioned as an entry-level offering within the Musa range, it aimed to provide economical and practical transportation for families. The Musa, based on the Fiat 307 platform (Project 199), represented Lancia’s attempt to enter the growing small MPV segment, offering a more premium alternative to mainstream competitors. This particular variant, powered by the 1.3 Multijet engine and paired with a manual transmission, was a significant volume seller in European markets, particularly Italy and France.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Lancia |
| Model | Musa |
| Generation | Musa |
| Type (Engine) | 1.3 Multijet (90 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2004 |
| End of production | 2007 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | MPV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 6.3 l/100 km (37.3 US mpg, 44.8 UK mpg, 15.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.1 l/100 km (57.4 US mpg, 68.9 UK mpg, 24.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.9 l/100 km (48 US mpg, 57.6 UK mpg, 20.4 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 12.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 12.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 173 km/h (107.5 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 13.3 kg/Hp, 75 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6 kg/Nm, 166.7 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 90 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 72.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 200 Nm @ 1750 rpm (147.51 lb.-ft. @ 1750 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 199 A3.000 |
| Engine displacement | 1248 cm3 (76.16 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 69.6 mm (2.74 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 82 mm (3.23 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 18.1:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 3 l (3.17 US qt | 2.64 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 6 l (6.34 US qt | 5.28 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1200 kg (2645.55 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1705 kg (3758.88 lbs.) |
| Max load | 505 kg (1113.33 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 320 l (11.3 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1420 l (50.15 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 47 l (12.42 US gal | 10.34 UK gal) |
| Length | 3985 mm (156.89 in.) |
| Width | 1698 mm (66.85 in.) |
| Height | 1688 mm (66.46 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2508 mm (98.74 in.) |
| Front track | 1444 mm (56.85 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1431 mm (56.34 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.31 |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.4 m (34.12 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent coil spring |
| Rear suspension | Semi-independent, coil spring |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Tires size | 195/60 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 15 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Musa 1.3 Multijet was the 199A3.000 engine, a 1.3-liter inline-four cylinder diesel. This engine was a product of Fiat’s Multijet technology, a second-generation common rail direct injection system. Multijet allowed for multiple injection events per combustion cycle, resulting in smoother operation, reduced noise, and improved fuel efficiency. The engine featured a turbocharger with an intercooler to boost power output. The 1.3 Multijet produced 90 horsepower at 4000 rpm and 200 Nm (147.51 lb-ft) of torque at 1750 rpm. The engine utilized a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. The transmission was a five-speed manual gearbox, chosen for its efficiency and affordability in this segment. This engine code was widely used across various Fiat and Lancia models, known for its relatively robust design and fuel economy.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.3 Multijet engine in the Musa provided adequate, though not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took around 11.9 seconds, and top speed was approximately 107.5 mph. The engine’s torque peak at low rpm made it feel responsive in everyday driving situations, particularly for overtaking and navigating city traffic. However, compared to higher-powered versions of the Musa, such as those equipped with the 1.9 JTD engine, the 1.3 Multijet felt noticeably slower, especially when fully loaded with passengers and luggage. The five-speed manual transmission was well-matched to the engine’s characteristics, offering a reasonable spread of gears. The gear ratios were optimized for fuel economy rather than outright performance. The engine could feel strained at higher speeds or when climbing steep hills.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.3 Multijet variant of the Lancia Musa typically came with a reasonable level of standard equipment. This included power steering, central locking, electric front windows, and an air conditioning system. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with a relatively simple dashboard layout. Optional extras included alloy wheels, rear parking sensors, a CD stereo system, and upgraded interior trim. The Musa aimed for a slightly more upscale feel than some of its competitors, with attention paid to interior design and material quality, though it didn’t reach the luxury levels of some premium MPVs. Trim levels varied slightly depending on the market, but generally, the 1.3 Multijet represented the entry point to the Musa range.
Chassis & Braking
The Lancia Musa utilized a front-wheel-drive chassis with an independent coil spring suspension at the front and a semi-independent coil spring suspension at the rear. This setup provided a comfortable ride quality, suitable for everyday use. The front brakes were disc brakes, while the rear brakes were drum brakes. This configuration was common for vehicles in this price range and weight class. The Musa’s suspension was tuned for comfort rather than sporty handling. Stabilizer bars were fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering. The steering was hydraulic power-assisted, providing light and easy steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Lancia Musa 1.3 Multijet was generally well-received by automotive critics for its fuel efficiency, practicality, and comfortable ride. However, some reviewers criticized its lack of outright performance and its relatively basic interior compared to some competitors. Compared to the higher-powered 1.9 JTD versions of the Musa, the 1.3 Multijet offered significantly lower running costs but sacrificed performance. The 1.9 JTD was favored by drivers who prioritized power and driving enjoyment. The 1.3 Multijet appealed to buyers who were primarily concerned with fuel economy and practicality. It competed with other small MPVs such as the Renault Scenic, Citroën C3 Picasso, and Opel/Vauxhall Meriva.
Legacy
The Lancia Musa 1.3 Multijet has proven to be a relatively reliable vehicle, particularly the engine itself. The 1.3 Multijet engine is known for its durability and longevity, provided it is properly maintained. Common issues include wear and tear on suspension components and occasional problems with the turbocharger. In the used car market, the Musa 1.3 Multijet remains an affordable and practical option for families. Its fuel efficiency and low running costs continue to be attractive features. However, potential buyers should be aware of the vehicle’s age and potential maintenance requirements. The Musa, while not a sales success for Lancia, represented an important step in the brand’s attempt to modernize its lineup and compete in the increasingly popular MPV segment.
