Lancia in the World Rally Championship
Turín (Italy)
Founded by Vincenzo Lancia.
Manufacturing since 1906 until today.
How many manufacturers championships was win Lancia
Lancia has won 11 world championships (1 IMC and 10 WRC) :
1972 (IMC) Fulvia HF1974 Stratos
1975 Stratos
1976 Stratos
1983 037
1987 Delta 4WD
1988 Integrale 8V
1989 Integrale 8V
1990 Integrale 16V
1991 Integrale 16V
1992 Integrale Evo
Lancia rally cars
Lancia 037Lancia Beta Coupe
Lancia Delta HF 4WD
Lancia Delta HF Integrale
Lancia Delta HF Integrale Gr.N
Lancia Delta Integrale
Lancia Delta Integrale 16V
Lancia Delta S4
Lancia ECV
Lancia ECV II
Lancia Fulvia
Lancia Stratos HF
History of Lancia in the World Rally Championship
Lancia, the legendary Italian automobile manufacturer, has an illustrious history in the World Rally Championship (WRC) that has left an indelible mark on the sport. Founded in 1906 by Vincenzo Lancia, the brand became synonymous with innovation, performance, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. This commitment was vividly displayed through its dominant presence in rallying, particularly from the 1970s through the 1990s.
Lancia's journey in the WRC began to take shape with the Lancia Stratos HF, a car specifically designed for rally racing. Introduced in the early 1970s, the Stratos HF featured a mid-engine layout and a lightweight, aerodynamic body, making it exceptionally agile and powerful. Its distinctive design, coupled with a Ferrari V6 engine, enabled the Stratos to achieve remarkable success. The car clinched three consecutive Manufacturer's Championships from 1974 to 1976, firmly establishing Lancia as a powerhouse in the world of rallying.
Following the Stratos, Lancia continued its dominance with the Lancia 037 Rally in the early 1980s. This car was notable for being the last rear-wheel-drive vehicle to win the WRC, showcasing Lancia's engineering prowess. The 037 Rally's success was highlighted by winning the Manufacturer's Championship in 1983, defeating formidable competitors with more advanced all-wheel-drive systems.
The pinnacle of Lancia's rallying success came with the introduction of the Lancia Delta Integrale. This model became a symbol of rallying excellence and technological innovation. Equipped with a turbocharged engine and advanced all-wheel-drive system, the Delta Integrale was virtually unbeatable. It secured an unprecedented six consecutive Manufacturer's Championships from 1987 to 1992. The car's dominance was further exemplified by numerous drivers' titles, making it one of the most successful rally cars in history.
Lancia's achievements in the WRC were not solely about the cars; the team, the drivers, and the strategic brilliance played crucial roles. Legendary drivers like Sandro Munari, Markku Alén, and Juha Kankkunen were instrumental in translating Lancia's engineering marvels into rally victories. The synergy between the drivers and the cars created a formidable force that competitors found challenging to match.
The brand's success in rallying extended beyond the track, influencing the design and technology of their production cars. Innovations developed for rallying, such as advanced suspension systems, turbocharging, and all-wheel-drive technologies, found their way into Lancia's road cars, enhancing their performance and appeal to consumers.
Despite its eventual withdrawal from the WRC in the early 1990s, Lancia's legacy in the sport remains unparalleled. The impact of their rallying success is still felt today, with the Delta Integrale, in particular, retaining a cult status among automotive enthusiasts and collectors. Lancia's contributions to the WRC helped shape the sport's evolution, pushing the boundaries of automotive technology and performance.
Lancia's history in the World Rally Championship is a testament to its engineering brilliance, competitive spirit, and innovative approach to motorsport. The brand's legendary cars and remarkable achievements have left an enduring legacy that continues to inspire and influence the world of rallying and automotive design.