Highlights

Desirable Series 1 Rallye 1.3 S with the uprated 91 bhp engine
Previously restored and now wearing some light patination
In current ownership since 2007 where it has been used for the occasional regularity rally
Video at the bottom showing oil pressure across the rev range at the end

The Appeal

Throughout the twentieth century, Lancia was a byword for automotive innovation. Even their seemingly conventional cars were anything but underneath and the Fulvia is no exception. A narrow angle V4 engine powers the front wheels of every car in the Fulvia lineup. Available in Berlina (saloon) form, Zagato bodied fastback and as a 2-door coupé such as this, the Fulvia proved immensely successful both on the road and the rally stage.

Since acquiring this rather handsome 1969 Rallye 1.3 S in 2007, the vendor has used the car on a number of regularity rallies where it has performed admirably. Subject to a sympathetic restoration some years ago, it remains a very presentable yet usable car that we’re sure will be enjoyed for years to come.

The History and Paperwork

Acquired by the vendor in 2007
Imported from Italy
FIVA Identity Card present
Previously restored
Kept indoors throughout the vendor’s ownership
Used once or twice a month on average
Has taken part in a number of regularity rallies
The vendor informs us that the odometer displayed around 53,000 kilometres when they purchased the car and it now reads 82,400

The Interior

Minimal wear evident to the tan upholstery
Slight patination to the wooden dashboard fascia
Very original, with no late additions we could see

As something Italian car makers so often get absolutely right, this Lancia’s interior celebrates the elegance of simplicity. All the controls you interact with as a driver feel well made and carefully thought out and unless you’re a non-smoker, there is absolutely nothing you don’t need.

The basic wooden dashboard adds a touch of class but is in no way overbearing and the same goes for the beautiful two-spoked wood-rimmed steering wheel. The original rubber mats line the floors and the upholstery is made from similarly hard-wearing vinyl.

The seats remain clean, undamaged and very supple as do the matching original door cards. The vendor informs us that everything works exactly as it should with the exception of the clock. We could see some gentle patination appearing in places such as to the aforementioned dashboard fascia but we think this adds to the character of the car.

The Exterior

Smart blue paintwork
Very good, solid bodywork
Tyres replaced two years (c.2000 kilometres) ago

Having been restored some years ago and stored in a garage ever since, the blue paintwork is in really good condition with few imperfections. The vendor points out a few small marks including a small scratch behind the nearside door but otherwise the paint presents well and holds a good shine. The brightwork also displays some light patination, most notably to the door handles caused by years of use.

Like many Italian cars of this vintage, Fulvia’s are prone to corrosion but having been kept dry and looked after very carefully, this example appears to be exceedingly solid and we couldn’t see any rust issues. As the vendor remarks, this car is made especially usable by the fact that it is fundamentally sound yet cosmetically not too perfect and so can enjoyed on a regular basis.

The steel wheels present really well, as do the chrome hubcaps and the vendor informs us that the tyres are in very good condition.

The Mechanics

1.3-litre V4 engine
Four-speed manual gearbox
Smart engine compartment
Retains its model-specific oil cooler and brake servo

With its pioneering narrow angle DOHC V4 that uses a single cylinder head and a transaxle powering the front wheels, the Fulvia’s drivetrain is anything but ordinary for its day and was highly effective both in terms of increasing interior space and handling. Fulvia’s proved very successful in rallying with great traction afforded by the unconventional front-wheel drive system.

This ‘S’ model Series 1 features the uprated 91 horsepower V4 and while that doesn’t sound like a lot today, we must remember that the Fulvia weighed in at under a ton. With a four-speed manual gearbox that you interact with constantly to get the best out of it, these Lancias make for a really engaging driving experience.

Under the bonnet, this example presents well and features a pair of Dell’Orto carburettors. The vendor informs us that it always starts well as the battery is regularly conditioned and once up to temperature the Lancia performs really well.

Summary

We’re huge fans of the Lancia Fulvia Coupé and Series 1 cars such as this 1969 example are real gems. With engineering unlike anything else before or since, the Fulvia fits perfectly into any car collection, regardless of what you already have.

If you’re looking for one of these fabulous little cars, this would be a great one to consider.

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