The Lancia Musa 1.4 (95 hp) Automatic, produced between 2004 and 2007, represents a specific configuration within the first generation of the Musa (Type 350), a compact MPV designed to appeal to European buyers seeking a stylish and practical vehicle. Positioned as an entry-level to mid-range offering, it provided a more accessible price point compared to the higher-powered engine options. The Musa, built upon the Fiat/PSA shared platform, aimed to blend Italian design flair with functional space and usability. This particular variant, with its 1.4-liter engine and automatic transmission, was intended to offer a comfortable and convenient driving experience, prioritizing ease of use over outright performance.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Lancia |
| Model | Musa |
| Generation | Musa |
| Type (Engine) | 1.4 (95 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2004 |
| End of production | 2007 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | MPV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8.3 l/100 km (28.3 US mpg, 34 UK mpg, 12 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.4 l/100 km (43.6 US mpg, 52.3 UK mpg, 18.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.4 l/100 km (36.8 US mpg, 44.1 UK mpg, 15.6 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 175 km/h (108.74 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 12.2 kg/Hp, 81.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 9.1 kg/Nm, 110.3 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 95 Hp @ 5800 rpm |
| Power per litre | 69.4 Hp/l |
| Torque | 128 Nm @ 4500 rpm (94.41 lb.-ft. @ 4500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 843 A1.000 |
| Engine displacement | 1368 cm3 (83.48 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 72 mm (2.83 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 84 mm (3.31 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 11:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity | 2.7 l (2.85 US qt | 2.38 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 4.5 l (4.76 US qt | 3.96 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1160 kg (2557.36 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1660 kg (3659.67 lbs.) |
| Max load | 500 kg (1102.31 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 and type of gearbox | 5 gears, automatic transmission Dualogic |
| 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 Lancia Musa 1.4 Automatic is powered by the Fiat 843 A1.000 engine, a 1.4-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine utilizes a multi-port fuel injection system, delivering fuel directly into the intake ports. The engine features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) design with two valves per cylinder. The 843 engine family was known for its relatively simple design and reasonable reliability, though it wasn’t a powerhouse in terms of performance. The Dualogic automatic transmission, a semi-automatic gearbox developed by Fiat, was a key feature of this variant. It’s essentially a conventional manual gearbox with automated clutch and shifting, offering a degree of convenience without the full complexity (and cost) of a traditional torque-converter automatic. The Dualogic transmission offered both fully automatic and manual shift modes, allowing drivers to choose between convenience and control.
Driving Characteristics
The 95 hp output and the characteristics of the Dualogic transmission resulted in a driving experience focused on comfort and ease of use rather than sporty performance. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took around 10.9 seconds, and top speed was approximately 108.74 mph. The Dualogic transmission, while convenient, could sometimes exhibit slightly jerky shifts, particularly at lower speeds. The gear ratios were tuned for fuel efficiency and smooth cruising, rather than rapid acceleration. Compared to the more powerful 1.9 JTD diesel or the 1.6-liter gasoline variants, the 1.4 Automatic felt noticeably slower, especially when fully loaded. However, it offered a more relaxed driving experience in urban environments.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.4 Automatic Musa typically came equipped with features such as air conditioning, power windows, central locking, and an audio system. Interior upholstery was generally cloth, with options for upgraded materials available. Trim levels varied depending on the market, but common options included alloy wheels, fog lights, and a sunroof. Safety features included ABS brakes and driver/passenger airbags. The Musa aimed to provide a comfortable and well-equipped interior, emphasizing practicality and family-friendliness.
Chassis & Braking
The Musa’s chassis featured an independent coil spring suspension at the front, providing a comfortable ride. The rear suspension utilized a semi-independent coil spring setup. The front brakes were disc brakes, while the rear brakes were drum brakes – a cost-saving measure common in this segment. The 1.4 Automatic variant, being one of the lighter configurations, generally handled reasonably well, though it wasn’t designed for aggressive cornering. The steering was power-assisted, providing light and easy maneuverability.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Lancia Musa 1.4 Automatic was generally well-received as a practical and stylish MPV. Critics praised its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and attractive design. However, the engine was often criticized for being underpowered, particularly when compared to competitors. Fuel economy was considered reasonable for its class, and the Dualogic transmission offered a degree of convenience. Compared to the diesel variants, the 1.4 Automatic offered lower purchase price but higher running costs due to fuel consumption. The 1.6-liter gasoline version provided a noticeable performance upgrade, but at a higher price point.
Legacy
The Lancia Musa, while not a massive sales success, remains a relatively well-regarded compact MPV. The 1.4 Automatic variant, while not the most desirable in terms of performance, offers a good balance of affordability and practicality. The 843 engine, while not known for exceptional longevity, is generally reliable with regular maintenance. Today, the Musa 1.4 Automatic can be found on the used car market at relatively low prices, making it an attractive option for buyers seeking an affordable and spacious family vehicle. However, potential buyers should be aware of the potential for issues with the Dualogic transmission, and ensure that it has been properly maintained.
