The Lancia Delta HF Turbo 1.6 (132 Hp), produced from 1987 to 1991, represents a significant iteration of the first-generation Delta (Type 831), particularly after the 1986 facelift. Positioned as a performance-oriented variant within the Delta range, it aimed to deliver a blend of practicality and spirited driving. The Delta, launched in 1979, was a groundbreaking vehicle for Lancia, moving away from their traditionally more conservative designs and embracing a modern, angular aesthetic. The HF Turbo 1.6 built upon the Delta’s success, offering a turbocharged engine and enhanced features, solidifying its reputation as a capable and desirable hatchback in the European market. It was a key model in establishing the Delta’s rally heritage, paving the way for the even more iconic Delta Integrale.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Lancia |
| Model | Delta |
| Generation | Delta I (831, facelift 1986) |
| Type (Engine) | HF Turbo 1.6 (132 Hp) |
| Start of production | 1987 |
| End of production | 1991 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 10 l/100 km (23.5 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.5 l/100 km (36.2 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 198 km/h (123.03 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.4 kg/Nm |
| Power | 132 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 83.3 Hp/l |
| Torque | 196 Nm @ 2750 rpm (144.56 lb.-ft. @ 2750 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 831B7046 |
| Engine displacement | 1585 cm3 (96.72 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 84 mm (3.31 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 71.5 mm (2.81 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 8:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.8 l (5.07 US qt | 4.22 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 6.5 l (6.87 US qt | 5.72 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1050 kg (2314.85 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1500 kg (3306.93 lbs.) |
| Max load | 450 kg (992.08 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 260 l (9.18 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1000 l (35.31 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 55 l (14.53 US gal | 12.1 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1100 kg (2425.08 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 530 kg (1168.45 lbs.) |
| Length | 3895 mm (153.35 in.) |
| Width | 1620 mm (63.78 in.) |
| Height | 1355 mm (53.35 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2475 mm (97.44 in.) |
| Front track | 1400 mm (55.12 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1400 mm (55.12 in.) |
| Front overhang | 750 mm (29.53 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 670 mm (26.38 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.6 m (38.06 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Drive wheel | 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 | Ventilated discs, 257 mm |
| Rear brakes | Disc, 227 mm |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 165/65 R14 |
| Wheel rims size | 5.5J x 14 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the HF Turbo 1.6 is the 831B7046 engine, a 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder powerplant. This engine is distinguished by its turbocharging and intercooling, which significantly boosted its output compared to naturally aspirated Delta variants. The engine utilizes a multi-port fuel injection system, providing precise fuel delivery for optimal combustion. The double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain, with two valves per cylinder, further enhances breathing and contributes to the engine’s performance. The 8:1 compression ratio was a compromise between performance and reliability, necessary for use with the available fuel grades of the time. The turbocharger itself was typically an IHI unit, providing boost pressure to increase power output. The engine was transversely mounted, a common configuration for front-wheel-drive vehicles, contributing to a more compact engine bay and improved weight distribution.
Driving Characteristics
The HF Turbo 1.6 offered a noticeable performance upgrade over the standard Delta models. With 132 horsepower and 196 Nm (144.56 lb-ft) of torque, it could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in approximately 8.5 seconds and achieve a top speed of around 123 mph. While not blistering by modern standards, this performance was competitive for a hatchback of its era. The five-speed manual transmission was the only option available, providing drivers with full control over the engine’s power band. Turbo lag was present, typical of turbocharged engines of the time, but the surge of power once the turbo spooled up provided a rewarding driving experience. The Delta’s front-wheel-drive configuration offered good traction, but could also exhibit torque steer under hard acceleration.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The HF Turbo 1.6 was generally well-equipped for its time. Standard features typically included power steering, central locking, electric windows, and a more comprehensive instrument cluster compared to base models. Interior upholstery was often a combination of cloth and velour, with a sporty design. Optional extras could include a sunroof, alloy wheels, and upgraded audio systems. The HF Turbo trim also featured unique exterior styling cues, such as a rear spoiler and distinctive badging, setting it apart from other Delta variants.
Chassis & Braking
The Delta HF Turbo 1.6 utilized an independent McPherson strut suspension at the front, providing good handling and ride comfort. The rear suspension also employed a McPherson strut design, with a transverse stabilizer bar to reduce body roll. Braking was handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear, providing adequate stopping power for the vehicle’s weight and performance. The steering was a rack and pinion system, offering precise and responsive steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Lancia Delta HF Turbo 1.6 was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its performance, handling, and practicality. Compared to other Delta variants, such as the 1.5-liter and 1.9-liter models, the HF Turbo offered a significant performance advantage. However, it was also more expensive to purchase and maintain. Compared to rivals like the Volkswagen Golf GTI, the Delta offered a more distinctive design and a more sophisticated driving experience, but the Golf often had a reputation for greater reliability. Fuel economy was reasonable for a turbocharged vehicle of the era, but not as efficient as the naturally aspirated models.
Legacy
The Lancia Delta HF Turbo 1.6 played a crucial role in establishing the Delta’s reputation as a performance hatchback. It served as a stepping stone to the even more successful Delta Integrale, which dominated the World Rally Championship in the late 1980s and early 1990s. Today, the HF Turbo 1.6 is a sought-after classic car, appreciated by enthusiasts for its unique character and performance. While finding well-maintained examples can be challenging, the engine is generally considered robust, although turbocharger and fuel injection system components may require attention due to their age. The Delta HF Turbo 1.6 remains a testament to Lancia’s innovative engineering and design prowess.
