1980 Lancia Delta I (831) Dimensions, Size & Specs

The curb weight of the Lancia Delta I (831) ranges from 970 to 975 kilograms (approximately 2138 to 2150 lbs), while the maximum gross weight can reach between 1420 and 1425 kilograms (about 3130 to 3140 lbs). A relatively light curb weight contributes to nimble handling and better fuel economy, while the maximum weight indicates the total capacity including passengers and cargo, ensuring the vehicle maintains structural and mechanical integrity under load.

The Lancia Delta I offers a standard luggage capacity of 260 liters (approximately 9.18 cubic feet), suitable for daily errands and moderate travel. When the rear seats are folded down, the luggage capacity expands significantly to 1000 liters (about 35.3 cubic feet), enabling the transport of larger items or increased cargo volume, making the vehicle versatile for both passenger comfort and carrying loads.

The Lancia Delta I comes equipped with 5J x 13 size rims paired with tires sized 165/70 R13. These relatively compact wheel and tire dimensions contribute to a comfortable ride and sufficient road grip, balancing the car’s light weight and performance capabilities. Smaller rims and higher sidewall tires help absorb road imperfections, making the Delta I well-suited for typical driving conditions and contributing to its agility.

Yes, the Lancia Delta I fits comfortably within standard residential garage dimensions. Typical garage widths are around 2400 mm (94.5 inches) or more, while standard height is about 2100 to 2400 mm (82.7 to 94.5 inches). Given the Delta I's width of 1620 mm (63.78 inches), height of 1380 mm (54.33 inches), and length of 3885 mm (152.95 inches), it can easily be accommodated in an average garage without difficulty, accounting for adequate clearance on all sides.

In the context of early 1980s hatchbacks, the Lancia Delta I is considered compact yet practical. Its length of 3885 mm (152.95 inches) and width of 1620 mm (63.78 inches) place it in a competitive position among contemporaries like the Volkswagen Golf Mk1 and the Ford Fiesta of the era, which had similar dimensions. The Delta I’s balance between space efficiency and performance made it a favored choice for drivers seeking an agile but functional car.

The Lancia Delta I (831) was a new model introduced as a compact hatchback and did not have a direct predecessor within the Lancia lineup, effectively marking a fresh entry into this vehicle category for Lancia. Compared to other models of its time, the Delta I's compact size, modest weight ranging from 970 to 975 kg (2138 to 2150 lbs), and ingeniously utilized interior space positioned it competitively in the subcompact segment, making it neither heavy nor overly large for its class.

The Lancia Delta I, with a length of 3885 mm (152.95 inches), width of 1620 mm (63.78 inches), and weight just under 1000 kg (around 2145 lbs), benefits from relatively lightweight construction and modest dimensions that enhance its agility and responsiveness on the road. Such characteristics typically enable good fuel efficiency and nimble handling, especially in urban and suburban conditions where maneuverability is crucial. The compact shape also reduces aerodynamic drag to some extent, contributing further to economical fuel consumption.

The Lancia Delta I (831) is notable for being one of Lancia’s early ventures into the compact hatchback segment. Mainly designed as a practical yet stylish urban car, it featured a hatchback body type that allowed for versatile interior space use, particularly with foldable rear seats. Its lightweight design, coupled with Fiat-based mechanical parts, offered a balance of performance and economy. The model appealed to young professionals and small families looking for functionality paired with Italian design flair.

The Lancia Delta I stood out among early 1980s hatchbacks primarily due to its distinct Italian styling, engineering practices, and quality build. Compared to rivals like the Volkswagen Golf Mk1 or Ford Fiesta, the Delta offered a unique combination of precise handling and avant-garde design aesthetics. Its manageable size, versatility with rear seat folding for increased cargo space, and solid engineering made it a competitive option for buyers seeking practical yet elegant hatchbacks rather than purely mass-market vehicles.