Lancia Stratos '73

aspiration

NA (Naturally Aspirated)

Group

Gr.N

Displacement

2,418 cc

DriveTrain

MR

Height

1,114 mm

Length

3,710 mm

Weight

980 kg

Width

1,750 mm

Max Power

185 BHP / 7,000 rpm

Max Torque

23.0 kgfm / 4,000 rpm

Performance Point

PP 447.56

Manufacturer

Lancia

Lancia Stratos '73: The Rally Legend That Redefined Motorsport

The Lancia Stratos '73 is an icon that stands at the crossroads between radical automotive design and motorsport dominance. Conceived primarily for rally racing, the Stratos was unveiled in the early 1970s as a collaborative masterpiece between Lancia and legendary design house Bertone. Its sharp, wedge-shaped profile, mid-engine layout, and compact size were revolutionary, signaling a new era in rally car engineering. Powered by a potent 2.4-liter Ferrari Dino V6 engine, the Stratos balanced light weight with impressive power, embodying both agility and raw speed.

The competition history of the Lancia Stratos is nothing short of spectacular. It was purpose-built to conquer the World Rally Championship (WRC), quickly achieving that goal with three consecutive championship titles from 1974 to 1976. Pilots such as Sandro Munari and Björn Waldegård exploited the Stratos' sophisticated suspension and dynamic balance to triumph on terrains ranging from icy Alpine roads to sun-baked African gravel. Its agile handling and robust engine allowed it to outperform larger, heavier competitors, making it a feared and revered rival during its time.

Off the racing stage, the Lancia Stratos gained a cult following among car enthusiasts for its distinctive looks and rally pedigree. Although only around 500 road-going units were produced to satisfy homologation requirements, the car's legacy endures in automotive culture, collector circles, and racing simulators like Gran Turismo 7. Revered for its outlandish design and competitive prowess, the Stratos is often cited as one of the most influential rally cars ever built, marking a pivotal chapter in both Lancia's history and global motorsport.