Lancia Stratos
The Lancia Stratos was a trailblazer in the world of rally racing. It was the first car designed from scratch for this kind of competition and it certainly impressed when it was introduced by Italian car manufacturer Lancia in 1971. The Stratos had a distinctive, crescent-shaped wrap-around windshield and a wedge-shaped body that was unusually short and wide to provide maximum traction.
It was powered by a 190bhp, 2418cc Dino Ferrari V6 engine, which could be tuned up to 280hp and even further with a turbocharger. It went on to be a dominant force in rally racing, winning the 1974, 1975 and 1976 championships, and may have done more had it not been hindered by internal politics within the Fiat group.
Also produced in limited numbers was a Group 5 road racing 'silhouette' version, which went on to win the Giro D'Italia Automobilistica in 1976 and 1977. With only 492 of these cars ever made, the Stratos is a highly desirable collector's car today.
In popular culture, the Stratos has been featured in cartoons such as The Transformers and Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex, and in classic racing games such as Sega Rally Championship, Forza Motorsport and Gran Turismo 4. It has also featured in movies such as Herbie Goes to Monte Carlo, and anime series such as éX-Driver.
Make a statement with a classic! Show off your style with a 1973 Lancia Stratos poster, mouse pad, t-shirt, or calendar. These unique items will turn heads and start conversation! Get yours today and display your appreciation for automotive history!
