Lancia Stratos classic cars for sale

History of the Lancia Stratos

The Lancia Stratos story began in 1970 when Bertone presented the Stratos Zero concept, instantly capturing Lancia’s interest. Designed from the outset for rally use, the Stratos was a radical departure from earlier designs, with the production-ready Stratos HF introduced in 1971. Development was led by Cesare Fiorio and the design executed by Marcello Gandini for Bertone, resulting in a compact, lightweight car with a mid-mounted Ferrari Dino V6 engine.

Mass production started in 1973, with the Stratos winning the World Rally Championship in three consecutive years (1974–1976). Both competition and road 'Stradale' versions were produced, although limited in number (fewer than 500 units). The Stratos quickly established itself as a rally weapon, its design focused on balance, agility, and optimum visibility—key factors on twisty rally stages. Though replaced by the Fiat 131 Abarth for factory competition after 1977, the Stratos continued to win events in private hands up to the early 1980s and remains a fixture at historic rallies.

Model History

The Stratos succeeded the Lancia Fulvia Coupé in rally competition, representing a leap toward focused rally engineering. Early prototypes featured a four-cylinder engine, but all production models adopted the 2.4-litre Dino V6, delivering between 188 and 190 hp depending on trim. The Stratos was available in rally trim and as the street-legal Stradale version, both recognisable by their sharply angled Bertone wedge silhouette and compact proportions. Special attention to weight, with extensive use of fibreglass and minimalistic interiors, made the Stratos singular among its contemporaries. After factory production ceased in 1975, road-legal cars and competition cars supplied by Bertone still saw use in various motorsport arenas.

Highlights of the Lancia Stratos

• Ferrari Dino 2.4-litre V6, up to 190 hp
• 0–100 km/h in just 6.8 seconds, top speed up to 248 km/h
• Legendary Bertone 'wedge' design by Marcello Gandini
• Rally victories: World Rally Championship winner in 1974, 1975, 1976
• Only about 500 cars produced, with around 200 Stradale models surviving
• Rare colours from factory, including yellow and azzuro (code 86980), plus three others
• Lightweight fibreglass body, mid-engined layout, independent suspension all round, and limited-slip differential
• Unique features like the flip-up windscreen for cockpit access and cosmetic 'basket handle' rear spoiler.

Technical Data

Special Editions and Collectible Models

Distinct concept and special models mark the Stratos history:

• Stratos Zero (1970): Bertone’s dramatic concept car featuring an extreme wedge design and futuristic details.
• Stratos Sibilo (1978): Further radicalised concept by Bertone, with smoked plastic windows and advanced aerodynamics.
• Fenomenon Stratos (2005): A British reinterpretation concept, updating the Stratos design for the 21st century.
• New Stratos (2010): Commissioned by Michael Stoschek, based on the Ferrari F430 platform, featuring a V8 and 540 hp—produced in extremely low numbers. The original competition (Gr. 4) and Stradale models, with documented chassis numbers, are considered significant collectibles.

Weak Spots and Common Issues

Original Stratos models require specialised attention due to their motorsport roots. Spare parts are available via a dedicated classic parts network, including components like OEM wheels and body panels. Prospective owners should verify chassis authenticity through expert documentation, check for correct care of the fibreglass body, and ensure that the Dino V6 powertrain receives regular maintenance to avoid expensive overhauls. Suspension joints, wiring looms, and unique parts (windscreen mechanism, flip-up body sections) can be wear points. Motorsport or event history also affects structural integrity and originality.

Engine and Performance, Transmission and Handling

The Stratos delivers a pure, direct driving experience. Weighing below 1,000 kg and powered by the high-revving Dino V6, it offers spectacular acceleration and an agile feel from its mid-engine layout. The short wheelbase and wide track create rapid turn-in and stability even on tricky rally stages, rewarding skilled drivers but requiring attention at the limit. The 5-speed manual and limited-slip diff transmit power efficiently, while all-wheel independent suspension and disc brakes assure sharp responses both on tarmac and gravel. - Stratos HF Group 4: Competition variant, purpose-built for rally (188–230 hp, homologation specials).

• Stradale (road version): Slightly softened setup, but still direct and uncompromising compared to any other production car of its time.
• New Stratos (2010): Modern reinterpretation based on Ferrari F430; much higher power (540 hp) and advanced driveline.

Interior, Comfort, Exterior and Design

Marcello Gandini of Bertone shaped the Stratos into one of the sharpest wedge silhouettes of the era. Its fibreglass body was lightweight and included unique details like flip-up front bonnet and engine cover, signature semi-circular 'basket handle' rear spoiler, and minimalist rally-inspired cockpit. Factory colours included just five shades—most famously bright yellow and azzuro blue. The dashboard was tailored to controls necessary for rallying, and road versions featured pared-back trim. Genuine accessories and OEM rally equipment—like Cibié lamps, original alloy wheels, or auxiliary rally gauges—are highly valued for authenticity.

Other Notable Features

Each Stratos is documented through chassis numbers, with many models holding FIVA papers and further motorsport homologations, allowing entry at international classic car and rally events. An enthusiastic owner network and robust parts supply exist for restoration. Event eligibility and provenance are significant points for collectors.

Summary

The Lancia Stratos stands apart: a rally car for the road, built uncompromisingly to win, and shaped by some of Italy’s most influential automotive figures. Its collectability is underscored by extremely limited numbers, unique technical specification, and a competition record seldom matched. Today, the Stratos offers the ultimate entry into the world of classic rallying and remains a reference point in Italian motorsport design.