StratosFear – inspired by the 1973-78 Lancia Stratos

The Lancia Stratos arguably began life as an outrageously impractical “Zero” sports concept car from the pen of Bertone’s Marcello Gandini. It had a tortured course from there to becoming a mid-engine, rear-drive, production-based FIA Group 4 rally car, still shepherded by Bertone / Gandini.

Powered by Ferrari’s 190 hp 2.4L Dino V6, the homologation production car saw 492 built, measuring just 146″ in length, and 44″ in height. Showroom cars were a lightweight 2161 pounds. Pocket Rocket indeed.

The competition Stratos versions certainly delivered: WRC titles in 1974, 1975, and 1976, largely on dirt, occasionally on snow or tarmac. Tarmacs wins also included the Tour de France on five occasions, and the 1974 Targa Florio. The Air Alitilia sponsorship paint scheme was the most feted.

Lancia followed the Statos with further iconic competition versions of the Group B 037 (Beta Monte Carlo derived), and Lancia Delta S4 (AWD).