1994 Lancia Delta Integrale Evoluzione 'Verde York'

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-litre four-cylinder engine in 1989, maximum power increasing to 200bhp and top speed to around 220kmh.

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.

After their incredible run of six consecutive World Rally Championship titles, from 1987 to 1992, Lancia paid tribute to this success with several special series produced in limited quantities, each benefiting from a specific finish, upholstery and colours. Presented in the summer of 1992, the Verde York is perhaps one of the most desirable and alluring of these special editions. It was intended for the most demanding Lancia customers and was designed to place particular emphasis on the values ​​of performance and technical sophistication. 200 examples were built all finished in York Green (344) with green-stitched Champagne leather and featured Solextra tinted windows and Recaro seats.

Offered from a deceased estate, this is #110 of those 200 cars and was originally delivered new to a doctor in Italy, and appears to be very well-preserved having covered only 63,407km (39,400 miles). It's supplied with a small history file, UK V5C, two keys, and will receive a service and fresh MOT ahead of the sale.

This attractive 'Verde York' Integrale, with its low-mileage and remarkable originality, represents a truly exceptional find.