1994 Lancia Kappa (838) Dimensions, Size & Specs

The curb weight of the Lancia Kappa (838) varies between 1440 kg and 1520 kg (3170 to 3351 lbs), depending on the variant and equipment level. Its maximum permissible weight ranges approximately from 1990 kg to 2030 kg (4387 to 4476 lbs). This weight range reflects the car's substantial build and equipment, contributing to its solid road feel and safety characteristics.

The Lancia Kappa boasts a luggage capacity between 525 and 565 liters (18.5 to 19.9 cubic feet), which is quite generous for a sedan of its class. This capacity provides ample space for suitcases, shopping bags, or other cargo, making it a practical option for families and long-distance driving requirements.

The Lancia Kappa (838) is fitted with rims sized 6.5J x 15 ET 37, with tire options including 195/65 R15, 205/55 R16, 205/65 R15, 205/60 R15, 195/60 R15, and 215/55 R16. These tire sizes provide a balance between ride comfort, handling, and road grip, suitable for the car's executive sedan characteristics.

The width of the Lancia Kappa ranges from 1822 mm to 1826 mm (about 71.7 to 71.9 inches). This width gives the vehicle a stable stance on the road, enhancing cornering and handling. However, the width means that parking in narrow spots or tight urban environments may require more caution, though it remains practical by mid-size sedan standards.

A standard family garage size typically measures around 2400 mm (7.87 ft) in width and about 4800 mm (15.75 ft) in length. The Lancia Kappa (838), at 4687 mm (15.38 ft) long and up to 1826 mm (6 ft) wide, fits comfortably within these dimensions. This means it can easily be parked inside a typical single-car garage with some room to spare for doors to open and movement around the vehicle.

The Lancia Kappa (838) succeeded the Thema and is marginally larger in length and width, offering improved passenger and luggage space. While the Thema measured approximately 4770 mm in length (a bit longer), the Kappa’s slightly wider stance (1822-1826 mm vs. Thema's approximate 1770 mm) results in a more spacious cabin feel and better road presence. The Kappa also introduced updated styling and technology, representing a modern evolution while maintaining the luxury and comfort expected from Lancia’s executive sedans.

In comparison to executive sedans like the BMW 5 Series (E34) or the Audi A6 (C4) from the same era, the Lancia Kappa holds its own with competitive dimensions. Its length of 4687 mm (184.4 inches) is within the typical range for mid-size luxury sedans, though slightly shorter than some rivals. The 525-565 liters of trunk space is generous, often exceeding some competitors' capacities. While some German contemporaries might offer more rigid driving dynamics, the Kappa focuses on comfort and spaciousness, making it practical and elegant with Italian flair.

With an external height of 1462 mm (57.6 inches), the Lancia Kappa delivers balanced internal headroom typical for executive sedans of its time. Though not classified as particularly tall, the car’s efficient interior packaging allows comfortable seating for front and rear passengers, ensuring passengers do not feel cramped. Its overall spacious cabin benefits from a thoughtfully designed interior, making it suitable for longer journeys without sacrificing comfort.

The Lancia Kappa's curb weight, ranging from 1440 kg to 1520 kg (3170 to 3351 lbs), places it in the mid-weight category for executive sedans. This weight helps provide a stable, solid ride quality and enhanced safety through structural rigidity. However, it also means that fuel efficiency may not be as high as lighter compact cars, especially when paired with larger engine options. The balance between weight and power was designed to offer a comfortable and refined driving experience rather than sporty performance.