The Lancia Y (840) 1.4 12V, producing 80 horsepower, was a key variant in the second generation of the Lancia Ypsilon, produced from 1996 to 2002. This model represented an entry point into the Ypsilon range, aimed at buyers seeking a stylish and compact city car with reasonable running costs. Positioned below the more powerful 1.6-liter versions, the 1.4 12V offered a balance between affordability and usability, particularly appealing to younger drivers and those prioritizing fuel efficiency. It was a significant model for Lancia, representing a move towards a more modern and design-focused approach within the European small car segment.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Lancia |
| Model | Ypsilon |
| Generation | Y (840) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.4 12V (80 Hp) |
| Start of production | 1996 |
| End of production | 2002 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 3 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7 l/100 km (33.6 US mpg, 40.4 UK mpg, 14.3 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 12.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 12.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11.8 sec |
| Maximum speed | 170 km/h (105.63 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.7 kg/Hp, 85.6 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8.3 kg/Nm, 119.8 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 80 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 58.4 Hp/l |
| Torque | 112 Nm @ 3250 rpm (82.61 lb.-ft. @ 3250 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 840 A2.000 |
| Engine displacement | 1370 cm3 (83.6 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 82 mm (3.23 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 64.9 mm (2.56 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.8:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 3 |
| Fuel injection system | Single-point injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | OHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.1 l (4.33 US qt | 3.61 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 4.8 l (5.07 US qt | 4.22 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 935 kg (2061.32 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1380 kg (3042.38 lbs.) |
| Max load | 445 kg (981.06 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 215 l (7.59 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 910 l (32.14 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 47 l (12.42 US gal | 10.34 UK gal) |
| Length | 3723 mm (146.57 in.) |
| Width | 1690 mm (66.54 in.) |
| Height | 1435 mm (56.5 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2380 mm (93.7 in.) |
| Front track | 1410 mm (55.51 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1395 mm (54.92 in.) |
| 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, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Spring Strut |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 165/65 R14 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The Lancia Y 840 1.4 12V was powered by the 840 A2.000 engine, a 1370cc inline-four cylinder unit. This engine utilized a single-point fuel injection system, a relatively common technology in the mid-1990s, offering a compromise between cost and efficiency. The engine featured an overhead camshaft (OHC) valvetrain operating three valves per cylinder (two intake, one exhaust). This configuration, while not as sophisticated as dual overhead cam designs, contributed to reasonable power output and torque for its displacement. The engine’s 9.8:1 compression ratio was typical for the era, balancing performance with the ability to run on readily available fuel grades. The 5-speed manual transmission was the standard offering, providing a relatively direct connection between the engine and the front wheels.
Driving Characteristics
The 80 horsepower output of the 1.4 12V engine translated to modest but adequate performance for urban driving. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took approximately 11.8 seconds, and top speed was around 105 mph. The engine felt somewhat strained at higher speeds, and overtaking required careful planning. The 5-speed gearbox was well-matched to the engine’s characteristics, with relatively short gear ratios designed to keep the engine in its optimal power band. Compared to the more powerful 1.6-liter versions, the 1.4 felt noticeably slower, but it offered a more relaxed driving experience and better fuel economy. The relatively light weight of the Ypsilon (around 2060 lbs) helped to mitigate the engine’s power deficit.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.4 12V Ypsilon typically came with a basic level of equipment, reflecting its position as the entry-level model. Standard features generally included power steering, central locking, and a basic audio system. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, and the dashboard featured a functional but relatively simple design. Optional extras included air conditioning, electric windows, and upgraded audio systems. Higher trim levels, such as the “Eleganza,” offered more luxurious appointments, including upgraded upholstery, alloy wheels, and additional comfort features. The focus for this trim was affordability and practicality.
Chassis & Braking
The Lancia Y 840 featured a front-wheel-drive layout with a MacPherson strut suspension at the front and a coil spring suspension at the rear. The suspension setup was tuned for comfort rather than outright handling prowess, providing a relatively smooth ride on typical city streets. Braking was handled by disc brakes at the front and drum brakes at the rear. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was included as standard equipment, enhancing safety. The chassis was relatively lightweight, contributing to the car’s nimble handling characteristics. Stabilizer bars were present, but were relatively thin compared to those found on higher-performance versions.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Lancia Y 840 1.4 12V was generally well-received by critics as a stylish and practical city car. Its fuel economy of around 33.6 mpg was a significant selling point, particularly in Europe where fuel prices were high. However, some reviewers criticized its lack of power and its somewhat basic interior. Compared to rivals such as the Fiat Punto and the Renault Clio, the Ypsilon offered a more distinctive design and a slightly more upmarket feel. The 1.6-liter versions of the Ypsilon offered significantly better performance, but at a higher price point. The 1.4 12V represented a good value proposition for buyers seeking a stylish and economical small car.
Legacy
The Lancia Y 840 1.4 12V powertrain, while not known for exceptional durability or performance, proved to be reasonably reliable in long-term use. The engine is relatively simple to maintain, and spare parts are still readily available. In the used car market today, these models are often sought after by enthusiasts looking for a classic Italian hatchback. They represent an affordable entry point into Lancia ownership and offer a unique blend of style, practicality, and Italian flair. While not a performance icon, the 1.4 12V Ypsilon remains a charming and characterful small car that continues to appeal to a dedicated following.
