Noble Sisters: Lancia Delta Integrale

The story of the Lancia Delta Integrale follows the "win on Sunday, sell on Monday" concept, already proven by the Italian manufacturer with the Fulvia HF in the 1970s, which became a rally champion and transformed into a coveted road icon. Its appeal, beyond aesthetics, was a driving experience close to that of a race car, making the dreams of many passionate drivers a reality. The Delta project was unveiled in 1979 at the Frankfurt Motor Show, with an innovative design by Giorgetto Giugiaro, who had just five years prior designed the lines of the Volkswagen Golf, Europe’s bestseller for its practical and rational style. This was no coincidence: the Fiat Group, owner of Lancia, wanted a car that could challenge the German competition. Not only the design, but also the technology came from Fiat, providing the Ritmo’s platform and engines of 1300 and 1500 cc. The Delta stood out immediately: in 1980, it was named Car of the Year and saw high sales, propelled by its attractive styling and quality finishings.

The Lancia Delta debuted in 1979 at the Frankfurt Motor Show with an innovative design by Giorgetto Giugiaro.

This successful model in the 1980s was enriched with something truly special: after the glory of the Fulvia and Stratos, the Delta also entered competitions, first as the HF Turbo and then as the extreme S4 version for Group B. This was a true racing prototype with dual forced induction, but its career was abruptly cut short with the abolition of Group B, too dangerous due to its high performance leading to severe accidents. However, the experience was not lost, and in 1986, Lancia presented the Delta 4WD, the first road-going model with all-wheel drive, a perfect basis for the newly formed Group A, which required series-derived vehicles.

After the cancellation of Group B, Lancia introduced the Delta 4WD in 1986, becoming the basis for the rally version that would compete in the new Group A.

Thus was born the legend of the Delta Integrale. With the 2.0 turbo engine from the Thema, the 4WD triumphed in rallying in 1987, launching an unstoppable winning streak that continued until 1992. In 1989, the Delta Integrale 16v debuted, followed by the Evoluzione 1 and 2, with wider tracks, more powerful engines, and improved aerodynamics. Enthusiasts were captivated: the Delta was more than a sports car; it was a rally dream that could be driven every day.

The Delta Integrale 16v was born in 1989, immediately recognizable by the hood bulge made necessary by the modified cylinder head.

The Martini liveries and numerous special editions, such as the Martini 5 and 6 or the rare Giallo Ginestra and Verde York, have made the Delta an icon for collectors and enthusiasts worldwide. Valuations have reached prices well over €100,000 for specimens in original condition. Much more reasonable in terms of price, around €35,000 on average, is the 16v produced from 1989 to 1992, immediately recognizable by the hood bulge made necessary by the modified cylinder head to accommodate the new camshaft.

There are numerous special editions of the Lancia Delta Integrale, like the Martini 5 shown here, created between 1991 and 1992 to celebrate the fifth consecutive Constructors' title in the World Rally Championship.