1985 Lancia Delta S4

Delta S4 image

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The Lancia Delta S4, manufactured in 1985, is a powerful rally car that packs quite a punch. This vehicle features a mid-engine layout with a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine boosted with a turbocharger and supercharger. The engine has dual overhead camshafts (DOHC) and an intercooler to increase its output. The engine, capable of producing 450 horsepower at 8,000 rpm, is mated to a 5-speed manual transmission with all-wheel drive. The car can reach a top speed of up to 200 km/h and can accelerate from 0-100 km/h in just 6.0 seconds.

The Lancia Delta S4 is built on a unique tubular space frame chassis with front and rear independent suspension with double wishbones, coil springs, and adjustable shock absorbers. The car also features vented disc brakes all around, coupled with a hydraulic handbrake, enabling quick and stable stops. The chassis is enhanced with lightweight alloy wheels measuring 15 inches, wrapped in high-performance Pirelli P7 tires, which provide excellent grip and handling.

The exterior of the Delta S4 is visually appealing and aerodynamic, with a sleek and rounded body shape, designed for maximum downforce. The car's body is constructed of lightweight composite materials, and it's available in various striking colors, such as red, white, and blue. The interior of the S4 is stripped-down, race-focused, and features a Sparco racing bucket seat, full instrumentation, and a roll cage. The driver has all the necessary controls, including a hydraulic handbrake, a racing steering wheel, and pedals for acceleration and braking.

The Lancia Delta S4's rally-winning pedigree is evident in this track-inspired vehicle's technical specifications. Its mid-engine, DOHC, all-wheel-drive system, and lightweight construction make for an incredibly agile and capable machine capable of providing the ultimate driving experience. While the vehicle never gained the widespread recognition of other rally legends, the Lancia Delta S4 remains a highly collectible and sought-after vehicle for performance enthusiasts and collectors alike.

Milestones

- 1984: Lancia Delta S4 prototype is unveiled at the Turin Motor Show - 1985: Lancia Delta S4 makes its debut in the World Rally Championship at the Rallye Monte Carlo - May 11, 1985: Henri Toivonen and Sergio Cresto die in a crash at the Tour de Corse, leading to the end of Group B rally racing - 1986: Lancia wins the World Rally Championship with the Delta S4 - 1986: Lancia introduces the Delta S4 Stradale, a homologation special with 200 units produced for public sale - 1986: Lancia withdraws from rally racing due to the FIA's ban on Group B - 1991: The Delta Integrale succeeds the Delta S4 and becomes a successful rally car in its own right.


Technical

- Engine: 1.8-liter turbocharged and supercharged inline-four - Power: 480 horsepower at 8,000 RPM - Torque: 361 lb-ft at 5,500 RPM - Transmission: 5-speed manual - Four-wheel drive system with adjustable center differential - Dual hydraulic disc brakes with ventilated rotors - Front and rear independent suspension with adjustable dampers - Lightweight composite body panels - Carbon fiber monocoque chassis - Top speed: over 140 mph - Acceleration: 0-60 mph in 2.5 seconds - Weight: approximately 2,200 lbs - Limited production run of 200 homologation road cars for Group B rally racing regulations - Successful in rally competition with notable wins at Monte Carlo and Acropolis Rallies in 1985.

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