The Lancia Beta Montecarlo is your own little Italian stallion. Powered by a mid-mounted zesty little 2ltr twin cam engine that has a fearsome rasp generated by a pair of Weber DTRA carburettors and a custom exhaust.

This little gem has recently been recommissioned and is ready to go. The recent owner has suggested that the car was treated to a respray only six years ago, and it does look fresh. To add to the irresistible charm it also has a quirky roll-back fabric targa roof for those sunny days, whenever we get any.

This car has enjoyed a recent recommission which has included all the important engine service items like the cam belt, tensioners and water pump. The Weber carbs have been serviced as have the brake calipers. There’s a new set of tyres on those stylish rims and even that cute roof has benefitted from new seals.

The original windscreen showed a little delamination, so that has been replaced too. The car will be delivered with a new MOT certificate. It has also been regularly maintained by a local Ferrari specialist.

The two-seat cockpit is typical of the era and typical of an Italian-designed car. All the important instruments are placed in direct eye line and everything appears to work as it should, something that is not always the case in an older Italian car. The interior has been re-trimmed at some time in the recent past, although there isn’t any paperwork to identify exactly when.

However, the seats are in great condition and without any obvious wear as are the carpets and door swabs. The fabric targa style roof which needs a certain knack to operate is in excellent condition and has had new seals fitted.

The shine on the sandy-coloured bodywork is deep and appears to be free of blemishes. The nose cone has been kept unpainted to retain originality. Period correct series 2 wheels are still on the car and are in very good condition and are free from any dreaded kerb rash. The doors hang perfectly and close with a satisfying clunk.

The underside of the car has not been inspected fully, but the photographs obtained at ground level appear to show a copious use of rustproofing which is a gratifying indication that the owner has wanted this car to last.

At the heart of this little Italian pocket rocket is the engine. It sits in the right place for perfect balance, just behind the driver. It fires up eagerly straight from the key and settles to an even tick over. The sound it creates when revved is just sublime as the air rushes into the twin Webers and the fumes are forced out of the stainless steel exhaust system. 

The engine bay is clean and tidy with the engine tucked down low and the spare wheel perched above. Everything has been recently serviced and includes the all-important cam belt change along with new plugs and distributor cap. The gear selection is surprisingly crisp and very effective.

Italian sports cars all enjoy that instant appeal, unfortunately, nearly all also have a perpetual battle with the elements and subsequent corrosion. This one though seems to have been treated to a very good respray and a good dose of anti-corrosion protection. The result is a pretty little two-seater that looks fantastic. 

It all works too as the other issue with ageing Italian cars is the quality of the electrics, but not here. All the switches appear to do their jobs and it all seems to work as it should. So, this is a rare car on so many fronts. You don’t see them every day and it is in lovely condition with everything in working order… Belissimo!

This item is sold on an ‘As is Where is’ basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and listing descriptions are for guidance purposes only*.** Car & Classic do not warrant listing accuracy. Full inspection is recommended. Viewings are at the seller’s discretion. Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased.*