This 1984 Lancia Trevi represents the range-topping Volumex (VX) model that was sold throughout Europe over the latter half of the car’s four-year production run. Spec includes a 135 hp, Roots supercharged (the volume in Volumex), carbureted Lampredi twin-cam four driving the front wheels through a 5-speed manual transaxle, and the car is fitted with one of the wildest dashboards of the era–far more interesting than the conservative exterior might suggest. These Volumex cars never sold in great numbers, and Trevis of all types are now quite rare to find in any condition. We’re big fans of the Lampredi twin-cam in any number of forms, including turbocharged, 16V spec as found in the Delta Integrale, and would love to hear this supercharged version really wound out. Find it here on mobile.de in Paderborn, Germany for 11,800 euros (~$13,400 USD today).
The car reportedly retains original light blue paintwork over staid Sergio Camuffo-designed bodywork. Cromodora eight-spoke alloy wheels are mounted with a newer-looking set of 185/65 Nereus Sailfish tires, and overall condition looks very good. Note the VX badge on the grille, as well as door handles shared with a number of the marque’s Beta models. Prior to a handful of Fiat group Volumex cars emerging around this time, mechanically-driven blowers hadn’t seen widespread use in European cars since the 1930’s, and as such these fast Trevis were pretty novel despite ho-hum external appearances.
This dash was popularly nicknamed “Swiss cheese,” and was generally not meant in a flattering way–again, this design was shared with several Beta models. Mario Bellini, its designer, has been quoted as calling it “A complex architecture of interiors in a small, very restricted space. A challenge tackled by the architect from a structural, and not purely aesthetic, angle.” We kind of dig it, though living with it day-to-day might elicit different feelings. It sure looks cool at night. Again, condition seems very good throughout the cabin.
A supercharged 2.0-liter twin-cam four routes 135 horsepower to the front wheels via a 5-speed manual transaxle, an impressive number for this class of car in Europe at the time. The seller notes recent maintenance included replacement of the timing and accessory belts, water pump, fuel lines, and various cooling hoses. Engine oil was also reportedly changed and the brakes are said to be in good condition.
Here’s a look under the forward-tilting hood, and the bay looks tidy with few signs of age apart from the yellowing coolant reservoir. Note the carburetor setup near the grille, underneath which resides a Roots supercharger. We’ve heard of these engines being swapped into Montecarlos/Scorpions, which seems like a much more natural fit. It’s also interesting that these Volumex cars were the ultimate performance version of the Trevi, whose successor the Thema would famously be fitted with a Ferrari V8 in top 8.32 trim.
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