The Lancia Trevi (828) 1.6, produced between 1983 and 1984, represented an entry-level offering within the Trevi range. The Trevi itself was Lancia’s replacement for the Flavia, positioned as a large, comfortable, and somewhat sporty sedan. The 828 series, launched in late 1980, aimed to modernize Lancia’s lineup, and the 1.6-liter variant was intended to broaden its appeal to a wider customer base, particularly those seeking a more economical option. It was built on the Tipo Due platform, shared with the Fiat Argenta, and represented Lancia’s attempt to compete in the upper-midsize segment of the European market. This specific engine and transmission combination occupied the lower end of the Trevi spectrum, offering a balance between affordability and the Trevi’s inherent qualities of comfort and refinement.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Lancia |
| Model | Trevi |
| Generation | Trevi (828) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 (100 Hp) |
| Start of production | 1983 |
| End of production | 1984 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 11.3 l/100 km (20.8 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 7 l/100 km (33.6 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 12.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 12.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 170 km/h (105.63 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.5 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8.5 kg/Nm |
| Power | 100 Hp @ 5800 rpm |
| Power per litre | 62.8 Hp/l |
| Torque | 134 Nm @ 3000 rpm (98.83 lb.-ft. @ 3000 rpm) |
| Maximum engine speed | 6400 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 828 B.000 |
| Engine displacement | 1592 cm3 (97.15 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 80 mm (3.15 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 79.2 mm (3.12 in.) |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Carburettor |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.2 l (4.44 US qt | 3.7 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 7.5 l (7.93 US qt | 6.6 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1145 kg (2524.29 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1645 kg (3626.6 lbs.) |
| Max load | 500 kg (1102.31 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 440 l (15.54 cu. ft.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1215 kg (2678.62 lbs.) |
| Length | 4355 mm (171.46 in.) |
| Width | 1706 mm (67.17 in.) |
| Height | 1400 mm (55.12 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2540 mm (100 in.) |
| Front track | 1406 mm (55.35 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1392 mm (54.8 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.9 m (35.76 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | McPherson, Transverse stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 175/70 R14 |
| Wheel rims size | 5.5J x 14 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The 1.6-liter engine, designated 828 B.000, was a naturally aspirated, inline-four cylinder unit. It featured a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain operating two valves per cylinder. Unlike the more sophisticated fuel injection systems found in some of its larger siblings, the 1.6 relied on a carburetor for fuel delivery, a cost-saving measure intended to keep the base model affordable. This carburetor setup, while simpler, resulted in slightly lower peak power and less precise throttle response compared to fuel-injected engines. The engine produced 100 horsepower at 5800 rpm and 134 Nm (98.83 lb-ft) of torque at 3000 rpm. The five-speed manual transmission was the standard offering, providing a reasonable spread of gears for both city driving and highway cruising. The transmission was a conventional setup, designed for durability rather than outright performance.
Driving Characteristics
The Trevi 1.6, with its 100 hp and front-wheel drive configuration, offered a comfortable but not particularly sporty driving experience. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph took around 11.5 seconds, and top speed was limited to 170 km/h (105.63 mph). Compared to the more powerful Trevi Volumex (with its supercharged engine) or even the larger-displacement naturally aspirated variants, the 1.6 felt noticeably slower. The carburetor contributed to a slight delay in throttle response, and the engine needed to be revved to extract its maximum performance. However, the relatively light weight of the 1.6-liter Trevi (1145 kg / 2524.29 lbs) helped to mitigate some of the power deficit. The suspension, while tuned for comfort, provided adequate handling, and the front disc brakes offered reasonable stopping power.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.6-liter Trevi was typically equipped with a fairly basic level of trim. Standard features included cloth upholstery, a simple dashboard layout, and manual windows and door locks. Air conditioning and a radio were often optional extras. The interior was functional and well-built, reflecting Lancia’s reputation for quality, but it lacked the luxurious appointments found in the higher-spec Trevi models. The exterior styling was consistent across the range, with the 1.6 featuring the same elegant lines and distinctive Lancia grille as its more powerful counterparts.
Chassis & Braking
The Trevi utilized an independent McPherson strut suspension setup at the front, with a transverse stabilizer bar to reduce body roll. The rear suspension also employed a McPherson strut design. Front brakes were ventilated discs, providing good stopping power, while the rear brakes were also discs, a relatively uncommon feature for a car in this class at the time. The steering was a rack-and-pinion system, offering precise and responsive control. Tire size was typically 175/70 R14, mounted on 5.5J x 14 steel wheels.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Trevi 1.6 was generally well-received as an affordable entry point into the Trevi range. Critics acknowledged its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and build quality. However, the engine’s performance was often criticized as being underwhelming, particularly when compared to the more powerful alternatives available. Fuel economy was reasonable for the time, but not exceptional. Compared to the Trevi 2.0, the 1.6 offered a significant price advantage but sacrificed performance. The 1.6 appealed to buyers who prioritized comfort and practicality over outright speed.
Legacy
The Lancia Trevi 1.6, while not the most iconic version of the Trevi, remains a relatively rare and collectible classic car. The 828 B.000 engine is generally considered to be reliable, although carburetor maintenance is essential to ensure optimal performance. Parts availability can be a challenge, as with many classic Lancias. Today, the Trevi 1.6 represents a unique and affordable way to experience the elegance and refinement of a 1980s Italian sedan. Its simplicity and relative affordability make it an attractive option for enthusiasts looking for a classic Lancia that won’t break the bank.
