Summary
(2004 - 2008)
I learned a lot from my 8V Thema project, but that engine was a bit tired,
having never been rebuilt. After many track days the engine finally spun a
bearing, so I retired it and picked up a 16V Thema turbo engine along with
Thema transaxle. After a lot of work I'm currently very happy overall with
the combination. Performance is as good as many supercars and yet it also
works well as a daily driver. In a recent dyno test we recorded 285 hp and
284 lb-ft of torque at the rear wheels.
Structural
I decided to utilize all three stock Thema mounts since they were designed
for the engine, and the two front mounts incorporated dampers to minimize
vibration transmission. The firewall modification from the 8V was retained,
and the crossmember modified for front mount attachment as well as for
exhaust clearance. The engine tilts forward for best chassis weight
distribution, and I had to notch the gas tank to clear the head. |
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motor mount "kit" using stock Thema visco mounts |
Engine
This time I disassembled and rebuilt the engine, including forged pistons,
shot peened rods, 12mm head bolts, performance cams. Flywheel was lightened
and all moving components were balanced. I discovered what I viewed as a
manufacturing flaw in the engine block oil galleys that caused spun #1
bearings, so oil is fed externally directly into the rear oil galley. I was
not able to devise a sump baffle system that would maintain oil pressure on
track days, so a dry sump was fitted. |
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Engine installation as in
2009 |
Intake
The stock intake manifold was retained but the restrictive throttle body was
replaced with a larger unit from a BMW 5 series. Injectors were uprated to
550cc. A large Spearco intercooler was fitted with direct fresh air feed
from a side air scoop. An intercooler mister was devised for use on track
days.
Exhaust
Turbo was upgraded to a new design Garrett ball bearing "disc potato"
unit, fed by a 4 into 1 equal length header made from 321 stainless
steel. Exhaust is 3" stainless all the way through. The wastegate is a
Tial mechanical fixed at 1.2 bar. |
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Homemade exhaust header, Garrett ball bearing turbo, Tial wastegate,
homemade linkage for a cable shifter. |
Controls
An aftermarket ECU with wideband O2 sensor allows full fuel and ignition
programmability and closed loop control. I use modern igniters (coil +
control electronics) on each spark plug, driven with an electronic
distributor.
Cooling
A large aluminum radiator is fitted along with dual Spal fans. A grille
opening is added to the engine cover so that exhaust heat can escape
directly.
Transaxle
The transaxle is an uprated unit designed for the Thema with optional
Ferrari 3.2 liter engine. There is a competition clutch and pressure plate. A
Transtad torque-sensing limited slip differential works really well in
making sure both rear wheels are transmitting full power to the ground. I
worked out a cable shifter that has great feel and eliminates all the links
and rods that are otherwise necessary.
Suspension
I've installed coil-overs with Koni racing shocks which made a huge
improvement in autocross times at the expense of a somewhat rougher ride.
Brakes
I've kept the Toyota MR-2 turbo brakes but switched to a Tilton racing
master cylinder and pedal assembly, which greatly improved pedal feel.
Interior
Since this is a highly stressed 2 liter, I wanted good instrumentation to
monitor engine health and the stock instrument panel couldn't work with
what I had in mind. I built a new dash and center console from scratch,
and installed a combination of DEFI and AutoMeter gauges. I also wasn't
impressed with the stock climate control and fit a heater/AC unit from a
Dodge Neon. Now there is lots of airflow. I also added a very nice stereo
with Polk speakers designed by MOMO, matches the MOMO wheel and shifter
knob.
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Exterior
No changes since the 8V project, other than fabricating a rear grille based
on a Testarossa theme, and the installation of HID headlights. Given the
car's performance and tempation to drive fast, I feel it's best to keep the
stock appearance and a low profile!
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car
at the 2007 American Lancia club reunion in Palm Springs with proud owner. |
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custom rear grille and dual exhaust, side scoops for air to engine and
intercooler |
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