1992 Lancia Delta Integrale Evoluzione I

From the mid-1960s until the early 1990s, Lancia was a major force in international rallying, winning the ‘World Rally Championship for Makes’ no fewer than 11 times between 1972 and 1992, including a remarkable six successive victories commencing in 1987. During the same period, Lancia drivers won the European Rally Championship on 14 occasions and the World Drivers' Championship (only instigated in 1978) four times. Badged as the Delta HF 4WD on its introduction in 1986, the model retained the Volumex supercharger initially before switching to a straightforward turbo when transformed into the Integrale in 1987. The latter would prove a supremely capable rally car, winning the World Championship in both 1987 and 1988, yet in road trim remained a thoroughly practical family hatchback. Integrale performance was boosted further by the introduction of a 16-valve cylinder head for the 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine in 1989, maximum power increasing to 200bhp and top speed to around 220km/h.

Homologated to maintain the works rally team's competitive edge, the first Evoluzione models were manufactured towards the end of 1991, incorporating wider front and rear track, appropriately altered bodywork, an engine re-mapped to produce 210bhp and a number of other detail improvements.

Finished in Metallescente Winner Red with a black hide interior, this particular, matching numbers, Evo I is superbly original throughout having come from long-term ownership and as such is fresh to market.  With a conscious decision made to keep the Lancia unmolested, apart from the addition of Compomotive wheels – the originals remain with the car – this example is rather refreshing as it has remained as Lancia intended with no alterations from factory specification, a rarity in itself. With only two UK-registered keepers since importation in 2000, the Delta comes complete with a file of invoices and receipts alongside the original handbooks, recently serviced including new belts and pulleys and supplied with an MOT certificate valid until June 2023. This represents an opportunity to acquire one of the most iconic hot hatches of the 1980s and 90s, delightfully unmolested and in excellent condition.