Fascinating Lancia 037 Stradale – The Last Rear-Wheel-Drive Rally Champion You Can Own in 2025
Lancia 037 for sale: Specifications
Technical Specifications – Italian Engineering Mastery
Lancia 037 for sale
Introduction
“The last true rear-wheel-drive rally champion.” That’s how many enthusiasts describe the Lancia 037—an automotive legend that etched its name in motorsport history during the brutal Group B era. In a world where all-wheel-drive quickly took over, the 037 stood alone in 1983 as the final RWD car to win the World Rally Championship. And today? Finding a Lancia 037 for sale is like spotting a unicorn in the wild—thrilling, rare, and unforgettable!
If you’re a collector or motorsport enthusiast, this car isn’t just an investment. It’s a rolling piece of rallying heritage. In this article, we’ll explore the Lancia 037’s history, technical prowess, market value, and the best ways to source one in 2025. Buckle up!
Lancia 037 for sale
A New Era Begins
“We achieved our most outstanding results nearly ten years ago with the Fulvia HF, when we won the 1972 World Rally Championship. We went on to prove our superiority for three years on the trot from 1974 to 1976, again with the Fulvia, and then the Fiat 131 Rally won us victories again in 1977, 1979, and 1980.
Three of our drivers have claimed the World Drivers Title: Sandro Munari, Markku Alén, and Walter Röhrl. But in 1982 we will have to face a substantial rules changement and, just for this, our programs have been revolutionised; we will race beginning from the month of April, as soon as it will be homologated, after the production of the two hundred samples prescribed by the rule with the Lancia Rally.”
These words, spoken on December 14, 1981, by Cesare Fiorio, head of Fiat Group’s Competitions Activities, marked the official birth of the Lancia 037 — a new weapon for rallying, developed to meet the new Group B FISA regulations.
Engineering Foundations
The chassis had to allow for easy repair and part replacement during races. Instead of the Fiat 131’s McPherson setup, the 037 used a double wishbone suspension — enabling a wide range of adjustments and compatibility with radial and non-radial tires.
For the base platform, three options were considered: the Fiat Ritmo, Lancia Delta, and Lancia Beta Montecarlo. Ultimately, the Montecarlo’s frame offered the best stiffness and sportscar pedigree, making it the ideal candidate.
Lancia 037 for sale
Prototyping and Aerodynamics
By July 1980, project “SE037” was sketched. Just six months later, the first prototype was tested at Turin’s ex-airfield in Corso Marche. Pininfarina was tasked with the design, tackling complex packaging, aerodynamic, and styling challenges.
The first prototype, though functional, resembled the Montecarlo too closely and was rejected by design chief Fioravanti. This led to a major redesign focused on aggression and aerodynamic efficiency.
The final form featured purposeful lines, wide tracks, visible engine bay, and wind-tunnel-optimized spoilers. The integrated full-vision windscreen and rear window improved airflow and created downforce essential for rally conditions.
Lancia 037 for sale
History of the Lancia 037 – Born to Rally
The story of the Lancia 037 begins at the intersection of innovation and necessity. As Group B regulations took hold in the early 1980s, Lancia—already a rallying titan thanks to the Fulvia and Stratos—set out to build a new contender. The result was the 037, internally known as Abarth Project SE037.
Lancia 037 for sale
Driven by rally greats like Walter Röhrl and Markku Alén, the Lancia 037 quickly earned its place as a Group B icon. It triumphed over the formidable Audi Quattro in 1983, securing the World Rally Championship Manufacturers’ title—making it the last rear-wheel-drive car to ever claim the crown.
Heart of the 037
The 037’s engine, a 1995 cc inline-four with four valves per cylinder and a Volumex supercharger, drew from Abarth’s earlier successes. Supported by engineer Aurelio Lampredi, this choice avoided turbo lag — a major issue in rallying’s stop-start terrain. Unlike turbos, the supercharger provided instant throttle response, essential on tight rally stages.
The drivetrain included a dry sump, ZF gearbox (shared with the Maserati Bora and De Tomaso Pantera), self-ventilated disc brakes, and adjustable suspension — all hallmarks of a high-performance machine tested in motorsport.
More technical specs here.
Abarth’s Mastery: Chassis and Engine
While Pininfarina handled the styling, Abarth engineers focused on the technical soul. The central monocoque connected to front and rear subframes made of high-strength tubular steel. This layout simplified construction, repairs, and delivered rigidity essential for rally durability.
The roll cage, built to FISA’s strict “Appendix J” safety standards, used 35mm steel pipes and underwent crash tests at Fiat’s safety center. The results were exceptional: after a frontal crash, the doors could still be opened, and the steering column shortened by just 20mm — far below the 127mm limit.
Collectibility and Market Trends – A Rising Star
Lancia 037 for sale
Conclusion – The Lancia 037: Rare, Raw, and Revered
The Lancia 037 is more than a car—it’s a symbol of one of the most exhilarating eras in motorsport. Whether you’re a passionate rally fan or a discerning collector, finding a Lancia 037 for sale represents a rare chance to own a piece of racing history that continues to inspire awe to this day.
In a world of AWD dominance and digital controls, the 037 stands proud as a pure, analog beast that dared to defy convention—and won. If you’re lucky enough to secure one, you won’t just drive a car. You’ll drive a legend.