Legendary Lancia Delta S4 Stradale: A Tamed Group B Terror
Rally racing often sees manufacturers transforming their racecars into street-legal versions, and one such legendary example is the Lancia Delta S4 Stradale. This extremely rare and limited edition car has gained notoriety for its alleged cheating during production, with only 70 or 80 units believed to have been produced, far fewer than the mandated 200 units.
While the car shares some features with the Lancia Delta production model, including the grille, windshield, and taillights, its spaceframe chassis and mid-mounted engine are derived from the competition model, which earned a fearsome reputation as one of the fastest rally cars of its time and played a role in the decline of Group B rallying.
Despite its formidable reputation, a new video from Hagerty, presented by Henry Catchpole, reveals that the Delta S4 Stradale offers a surprisingly civilized driving experience. Its 1.8-liter engine, equipped with both turbo- and supercharging, delivers 300 hp (224 kW/304 PS), providing ample power without feeling uncontrollable, although it does boast the ability to spit flames, a characteristic reminder of its Group B heritage.
The Lancia Delta S4 Stradale stands as a testament to the melding of high-performance racing technology with street-legal practicality, offering enthusiasts a rare opportunity to experience a piece of rally history on the open road.
