1983 Lancia Delta I (831, facelift 1982) Dimensions, Size & Specs

The curb weight of the Lancia Delta I ranges between 935 and 1000 kg (2062 to 2205 lbs), depending on the trim level and equipment. Its maximum permissible weight ranges from 1385 to 1450 kg (3054 to 3197 lbs), which accounts for passengers, cargo, and additional load. This relatively lightweight construction contributed to the car's agile handling and fuel efficiency.

With the rear seats in their upright position, the Lancia Delta I provides a luggage capacity of 260 liters (approximately 9.2 cubic feet), which is reasonable for a compact hatchback of its time. When the rear seats are folded down, the cargo space expands significantly to 1000 liters (about 35.3 cubic feet), allowing for larger items or increased storage volume for longer trips.

The Lancia Delta I comes with rim sizes of 5.5J x 14, 5.5J x 14, 5.5J x 14, and 5.5J x 13. Compatible tire sizes include 165/65 R14, 175/65 R14, and 165/70 R13. These relatively narrow tire sizes correspond to the vehicle's compact dimensions, offering a good balance between ride comfort, grip, and fuel efficiency.

Yes, with its overall length of 3895 mm (153.3 inches), width of 1620 mm (63.8 inches), and height of 1380 mm (54.3 inches), the Lancia Delta I easily fits into a standard garage. Typical garage door widths range from 2400 to 3000 mm (94.5 to 118 inches), so the Delta's compact size makes parking convenient without requiring special accommodations.

The 1983 facelift Lancia Delta I maintained very similar dimensions to the original pre-facelift model produced starting in 1979, with only minor adjustments mainly to exterior styling rather than size. The length, width, and height stayed nearly the same, preserving the compact hatchback footprint that defined the Delta I, while updates affected aesthetics, aerodynamics, and interior features more than physical size.

The Lancia Delta I's dimensions are comparable to other European compact hatchbacks from the early 1980s, such as the Volkswagen Golf Mk1 and the Ford Escort Mk3. While slightly shorter and narrower than some competitors, the Delta offered competitive luggage capacity and a well-utilized interior space. Its relatively low height also contributed to a sporty silhouette compared to some rivals.

The Lancia Delta I is designed as a 5-door hatchback, a format that combines compact exterior dimensions with enhanced practicality. The hatchback tailgate allows easy loading and unloading of the cargo area, and folding rear seats boost luggage capacity. This configuration made the Delta I appealing for everyday use, balancing passenger comfort and utility.

With a curb weight between 935 and 1000 kg (2062 to 2205 lbs) and a front-engine, front-wheel-drive layout, the Lancia Delta I featured a relatively balanced weight distribution typical for compact hatchbacks. This contributed to predictable and agile handling characteristics, making the car nimble in urban driving and twisty roads, which was well-appreciated among enthusiasts.

The 1983 facelift of the Lancia Delta I primarily addressed visual and equipment updates rather than a comprehensive redesign. This included revised front and rear styling elements, updated interior features, and minor improvements to suspension and noise insulation. Performance remained largely consistent with pre-facelift models, maintaining the vehicle's reputation for efficiency and driving dynamics within its compact class.