Market Position:
The Lancia Delta, particularly its HF 4WD and Integrale variants, occupied a prominent position in the rally-bred homologation special and compact performance car segment. These models were celebrated for their advanced all-wheel-drive systems, potent turbocharged engines, and distinctive styling, making them highly sought after by enthusiasts.
Competitive Analysis:
Competed against other iconic performance hatchbacks and sedans of its era, such as the Ford Escort RS Cosworth, Audi Sport Quattro, Peugeot 205 T16, and BMW M3 (E30). The Delta Integrale series stood out with its unparalleled success in the World Rally Championship, lending significant prestige and desirability to the road-going versions.
Key Features:
The Lancia Delta Integrale models are characterized by their robust turbocharged engines, sophisticated permanent four-wheel-drive systems with viscous couplings and/or Torsen differentials (depending on variant), independent suspension all around, powerful braking systems, and distinctive wide-body styling. The manual covers the evolution from the initial HF 4WD to the later, more powerful Evoluzione models.
Rally Heritage Impact:
The manual’s existence and coverage directly reflect the Lancia Delta's storied career in motorsport. The technical details within are often derived from race development and homologation requirements, offering a deep dive into high-performance engineering.
Systems Covered:
Engine Mechanical, Engine Control System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Fuel System, Emission Control Systems, Ignition System, Charging System, Starting System, Clutch System, Manual Transaxle System, Drive Shaft, Differential Case Assy, Rear Axle Beam, Front Suspension System, Rear Suspension System, Steering System, Brake System, Wheel And Tire System, Body Repair, Supplemental Restraint System, Sun Roof System, Power Window Control System, Power Door Lock Control System, Wiper & Washer System, Lighting System, Combination Meter, HVAC System (Heater Radiator Assy), Interior Trim, Exterior Trim, Wiring Diagrams, Chassis Components
Electrical System Coverage:
Detailed diagnosis and repair of the entire electrical system, including wiring diagrams, component testing, fuse box layouts, lighting circuits, ignition circuits, starter and charging circuits, and sensors.
Chassis And Suspension Coverage:
Detailed information on front MacPherson struts and rear independent suspension systems, including component identification, removal/installation, alignment specifications, and shock absorber/spring replacement.
Body And Interior Coverage:
Includes procedures for body panel repair, alignment, rust prevention, interior trim removal and installation, seat repair, and headliner replacement.
Brakes Coverage:
Detailed coverage of hydraulic brake systems, including master cylinder, brake boosters, proportioning valves, brake lines, calipers, pads, and rotors. ABS system diagnostics are also included for equipped models.
Transmission And Drivetrain Coverage:
Comprehensive coverage of the manual gearbox, clutch system, driveshafts, constant velocity joints, transfer case, and differentials (front, center, and rear). Includes rebuild and repair procedures.
Procedures Included:
Scheduled Maintenance, Engine Overhaul, Transmission Repair, Differential Repair, Suspension Component Replacement, Brake System Servicing, Steering System Servicing, Electrical System Diagnosis and Repair, Fuel System Servicing, Cooling System Servicing, Lubrication System Servicing, Emission Control System Servicing, Bodywork Repair, Airbag System Servicing, Body Panel Alignment, Glass Replacement, Wiper and Washer System Repair, Lighting System Repair, Instrument Cluster Diagnosis, HVAC System Repair, Troubleshooting Procedures, Diagnostic Procedures, Torque Specifications, Component Removal and Installation, Fluid Capacity and Specification, Tire and Wheel Servicing, Wheel Alignment
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive from basic maintenance to complete engine and drivetrain rebuilds, including detailed diagnostic and repair procedures for all major vehicle systems.
Primary Engine:
Inline 4-cylinder, turbocharged, 16-valve (for Integrale 16v and Evoluzione), or 8-valve (for HF 4WD and Integrale 8v) gasoline engines. Common displacements include 2.0 liters.
Performance Range:
Horsepower typically ranged from approximately 165 hp for early models to over 210 hp for later Evoluzione variants. Torque figures were also substantial, providing strong acceleration.
Torque Figures:
Torque figures generally in the range of 250-300 Nm (184-221 lb-ft), providing strong mid-range pull.
Fuel System:
Fuel injection (Bosch Motronic typically), turbocharged induction.
Fuel Pump Type:
Electric fuel pump, typically mounted in the fuel tank. Specifications and testing procedures are included.
Engine Mechanical Details:
Inline 4-cylinder, DOHC, turbocharged. Features include cast-iron block, aluminum cylinder head, intercooler for charged air cooling. Maintenance of turbocharger, wastegate, and blow-off valve are critical.
Valve Clearance:
Adjustable valve lifters or shims may be present, requiring periodic checking and adjustment. Specific procedures and specifications are vital and found in the manual.
Turbocharger System:
Garrett or similar turbocharger, intercooler, boost control system. Manual details maintenance and troubleshooting for these components.
Service Intervals:
Standard intervals for oil changes (e.g., every 10,000-15,000 km), spark plug replacement, timing belt replacement (critical for turbocharged engines), brake fluid flush, coolant replacement. Specific intervals detailed within the manual. Early attention to turbocharger maintenance is crucial.
Engine Oil Specifications:
Typically high-performance synthetic engine oil, viscosity grade such as 10W-40 or 5W-40, meeting specific API or ACEA standards. Manual will specify exact grade and capacity.
Transmission Fluid Type:
Manual transmission fluid (GL-4 or GL-5 rated gear oil), differential fluid (specific grades for front and rear differentials, likely GL-5). Capacities and exact specifications will be in the manual.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze/coolant, mixed with distilled water. Capacity and specific type detailed in the manual.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid, depending on specific vehicle configuration. Manual will confirm.
Known Issues:
Rust prone areas (wheel arches, sills, rear bulkhead), aging rubber components (hoses, bushings), turbocharger wear, oil leaks, potential for clutch and gearbox wear due to performance driving. The manual is essential for addressing these common issues proactively.
Electrical Common Problems:
Degradation of wiring insulation over time, faulty relays, issues with the fuel pump relay, and intermittent electrical faults are common and addressed in the manual's diagnostic sections.
Cooling System Common Problems:
Aging radiator, coolant hoses, and water pump can lead to overheating. Manual provides replacement procedures and coolant capacity.
Spark Plug Recommendation:
High-performance spark plugs, likely heat range appropriate for turbocharged applications. Specific part numbers and gap settings will be detailed in the manual.
Timing Belt Replacement Interval:
Crucial maintenance item for turbocharged engines. Typical interval around 60,000-90,000 km or 5 years. Manual will provide exact interval and procedure.
Brand Heritage:
Lancia has a rich heritage in motorsport, particularly in rallying, dating back to the 1950s. This manual covers a period where Lancia dominated the World Rally Championship with the Delta platform.
Motorsport Legacy:
Lancia's dominance in rallying, winning numerous World Rally Championship titles with the Delta Integrale, significantly influences the design and engineering of these vehicles. This manual provides insights into that performance-oriented development.
Model Evolution:
The Delta platform, launched in 1979, evolved significantly into the high-performance HF 4WD and then the legendary Integrale series. Key developments included increased engine power, refined all-wheel-drive systems (8v to 16v to the iconic Evo I and Evo II), wider track bodies, upgraded suspension and braking components, and distinctive styling cues. The manual covers this entire evolution within its production years.
Integrale Variants Evolution:
From the 'HF 4WD' to the 'Integrale 8v', 'Integrale 16v', 'Integrale Evoluzione I' (or 'Martini'), and 'Integrale Evoluzione II', each iteration brought enhancements in power, torque, chassis dynamics, and styling. The manual bridges these significant advancements.
Production Period:
1979-1994 for the models covered by this manual, with the performance-oriented Integrale variants spanning from the late 1980s into the mid-1990s.