Lancia Delta classic cars for sale

History of the Lancia Delta

Lancia introduced the Delta at the 1979 Frankfurt Motor Show, with design by Giorgetto Giugiaro, aiming to enrich its compact segment. The car, based on Fiat Ritmo architecture, surpassed its sibling with premium details, including fibreglass-reinforced bumpers and distinctive styling derived from the Maserati Medici concept. Early recognition came with the 1980 'Car of the Year' award. Evolving from a modest five-door hatch, the Delta would become a mainstay of both everyday Italian motoring and international rally competition, particularly from its 1986 transformation into a four-wheel-drive companion for the world’s rally teams. Each generation saw the Delta adapt to new technical and stylistic demands, all the way through to its 2014 finale.

Model History

The Lancia Delta’s first generation (1979–1994) is cherished for its luxury equipment, punchy four-cylinder engines, and a series of high-performance HF and Integrale versions. After several facelifts and mechanical upgrades in the 1980s, the Delta HF Turbo brought turbocharging and in 1986, the infamous all-wheel-drive HF 4WD and Integrale arrived. The second generation (1993–1999), known as 'Nuova Delta', offered a rounder design, improved comfort, and up to 193 PS in the 2.0 16V HF, but gradually faded from the limelight. Following a pause, the third Delta (2008–2014) reinterpreted the formula for the modern era, closing the lineage after over 30 years.

Highlights and Distinctive Features

The Delta is highly regarded for its motorsport pedigree, particularly its six consecutive World Rally Championship Constructors’ titles (1987–1992) with the Integrale. Exclusive editions, broad wheel arches, functional bonnet vents, and intricate rally-inspired engineering set the Integrale range apart. Early models were also notable for their ahead-of-their-time standard features, like heated mirrors and multi-speed wipers. The Delta’s reputation for agile, balanced handling and punchy turbocharged performance gives it an enduring edge over other period hatchbacks.

Technical Data

Special Editions and Collectible Models

Among the most coveted special editions are the Delta Integrale Evoluzione Martini 5 (400 units), Martini 6 (310 units), Giallo Ginestra (220), Dealer’s Collection (180), Bianco Perlato (365), and the ultra-rare Hyena Zagato Coupé (24–25 units), which combined aluminium coachwork with exclusive details. These specials often introduced bespoke paint finishes (such as Giallo Ginestra or Blu Lagos), unique trim, advanced mechanical specifications, and commemorative links to Lancia’s rally dominance.

Weak Spots and Common Issues

Owners should pay close attention to electrical system connectors and corrosion, particularly on earlier models. Worn suspension bushings and mountings frequently require attention due to the high stresses imparted by spirited driving and the robust rally-derived chassis. Careful inspection of subframes, the integrity of the all-wheel-drive system, and evidence of proper service history is crucial given the Delta’s high-performance capabilities and often-enthusiastic use.

Engine and Performance, Transmission and Handling

From the outset, the Delta blended lively performance with secure handling. The switch from front-wheel drive to the advanced permanent all-wheel drive of the Integrale, coupled with turbocharged engines up to 215 PS, gave the Delta unrivalled grip and acceleration in its class. Key features include tight McPherson suspension with anti-roll bars front and rear, upgraded turbocharging, and, on Integrales, a Torsen rear differential. Later Evoluzione models received broader tracks, reinforced chassis, and even larger brakes. - Delta HF Integrale 8V/16V: Turbo, all-wheel drive, up to 200 PS, signature wide-body, sought by enthusiasts for rally heritage.

• Evoluzione I/II: Up to 215 PS, rapid acceleration, ultimate chassis development, infamous among drivers for its precision and power.
• HF 4WD: Early all-wheel drive, 165 PS, direct rally homologation link.
• Hyena Zagato: Rarest, lightweight coupé, collector's favourite, bespoke styling.

Interior, Comfort, Exterior and Design

Designed by Giugiaro, the Delta uses a sharp, square silhouette, which became even more dramatic with the Integrale’s extended wheel arches and rally-inspired airwork. Distinctive body colours – such as Giallo Ginestra yellow, Verde York green, or Blu Lagos blue – and features like Martini racing stripes, wide alloy wheels, and bonnet scoops underline motorsport cues. Interiors vary from practical cloth to Recaro leather/Alcantara, with specialist gauges, deep-bolstered seats, unique stitching, and space for five. Options included electric windows, sunroofs, air conditioning, and, in later models, full customisation of trim and wheels, especially for the special editions.

Other Relevant Features

A notable peculiarity: In Sweden during the early 1980s, the Delta was marketed as the Saab 600 thanks to a partnership with Fiat, differing mainly in branding and minor detail changes. The Hyena Zagato was built in cooperation with the famed Milanese coachbuilder, showcasing an exclusive double-bubble roof in aluminium and weight savings of approximately 180 kg over the stock Integrale.

Summary

The Lancia Delta distinguishes itself in the classic car world for its fusion of engineering innovation, rally-winning credentials, and stylish Italian design. Dominating both classic car supply and enthusiast searches, particularly in Integrale form, the Delta invites drivers to enjoy both motorsport-level performance and daily usability in a way few of its rivals ever managed.