Highlights
- 1 of only 62 RHD examples made
- Right-hand drive, UK supplied example
- Handmade bodywork by Carrozzeria Zagato
- Just three previous keepers and in initial ownership for 36 years
- Recent mechanical refresh
- Restored by the first owner in 1997 and used sparingly ever since
- 20,657 miles indicated and believed to be accurate
The Appeal
Occupying the middle ground between full-size thoroughbreds and diminutive roadsters, the Italian sports coupé offered driving enthusiasts a relatively affordable alternative that would be practical enough for everyday use, without compromising dynamically. Lancia and Alfa Romeo were frontrunners, with the capable Fulvia and 105 Giulia ranges vying for the top spot. For the buyer who wanted something a little more exclusive, Zagato’s Ercole Spada penned his own versions of both cars and these have become some of the most sought-after cars of their era.
We’re delighted to offer this Lancia Fulvia 1600 Sport Zagato, which has been on UK soil since new. Its first owner loved it so much that they kept it for 36 years, even restoring it during that time. Since then it has had just two more keepers prior to current ownership, and while the vendor professes that they want to keep it, they’re now reducing their sizeable collection. Resplendent in orange, the older restoration has now mellowed nicely, making this a car you wouldn’t be afraid to use as its makers intended. With Lancia’s most potent V4 engine under the bonnet, mated to a five-speed dog-leg manual gearbox, this car promises an unrivalled driving experience that’s beloved of petrolheads the world over.
The History and Paperwork
- Rare RHD UK car
- Exempt from MOT testing and road tax
- Four owners from new, In initial ownership for 36 years and previous ownership for 10 years
- Recent mechanical refresh
- Restored in 1997 and the car was reportedly sent to Italy for this work to be undertaken
- Accompanied by a substantial history file
- The vendor has been in contact with the son of the first owner, who has been able to offer some interesting history to supplement the wealth of surviving paperwork
- Period photographs of the car present
- The vendor believes the 20,657 indicated miles to be accurate
- A copy of a Fulvia workshop manual is supplied
- Numerous parts and servicing invoices
- Collection of old MOT certificates
The Interior
- Curious ‘basket weave’ style beige upholstery
- No excessive wear or damage to any of the fabrics
- Ribbed rubber matting lines the floors and looks in great order
- Wood-rimmed sports steering wheel
- A full-size spare wheel can be found in the boot
- Electrically operated windows and ventilated tailgate
- Period stereo cassette player fitted
- Original wooden dashboard fascia in fantastic condition
Climbing aboard this Lancia is certainly a period-correct experience. That unusual beige upholstery is very much of its time and remains in fantastic condition. As was often the case at the time, the floors are not carpeted and are instead protected by ribbed black rubber matting. These cars were destined for regular us and so this proved a very sensible decision on Lancia’s part. All is in good order here, as are the vinyl door cards and the headlining.
Fulvia dashboards are a particular favourite of ours and this one really looks the part with its original woodwork in great shape and a period stereo cassette player mounted on the passenger side. All the instruments and switches present well and we’re not informed of any faults. The controls are very tactile, with a small sports steering wheel feeling just right thanks to its wooden rim, and a smooth ‘pool ball’ gear selector falling nicely to hand.
The Exterior
- Zagato bodywork by Ercole Spada
- Striking orange paintwork
- Remains in very good overall condition having been restored and repainted 25 years ago
- Period accessory BWA ‘Sportstar’ alloy wheels
- Michelin tyres with classic tread pattern
- Original bumpers and overriders fitted
With a 25-year-old restoration now weathering in nicely, this Lancia still looks wonderful and that Zagato bodywork is set off perfectly by the orange paint. Having been kept indoors over the years and most recently in a specialised de-humidified storage facility, it remains in fantastic order. There are of course a few imperfections to the old paintwork, including some slight bubbling to the offside rear wheel arch. There are no signs of accident damage or any evidence of excessive corrosion.
While many have lost their bumpers over the years when chasing that more competition-inspired aesthetic, we’re pleased to report that this one retains its original bumpers, overrriders and trim - all of which appear in very fine shape. It sits upon a set of period accessory BWA ‘Sportstar’ alloys which are in really good order.
The Mechanics
- 1600 cc V4
- Twin carburettors
- Front-wheel drive
- Five-speed dog-leg manual gearbox
- All presents very well under the bonnet
Lancia’s V4 is a jewel of an engine, especially in 1600 cc form which was taken from their rally-bred, homologation special Fulvia HF model. This unusual engine thrives on revs and allows the driver to make regular use of that dog-leg gearbox in order to row the car down the road.
We’re informed that this example is in very good running order with no issues to report. All presents very well under the bonnet and we’re assured that the engine starts well, runs sweetly and delivers ample performance.
Summary
We find this scintillating little Lancia a most endearing classic and we’re sure any driving enthusiast would be eager to add it to their collection. With an older restoration now bedded in nicely, this supremely usable, achingly beautiful and enticingly exotic sports car awaits its next custodian.
BEFORE YOU BUY
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✓ If the seller is registered as a private seller, consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not apply. Car & Classic’s return policy applies.
✓ A non-refundable deposit will be payable if you are the winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted, refer to FAQs and T&Cs for details.
✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is, Where Is’ basis and without warranty. A full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase and bidding is highly recommended. Photos and descriptions are for guidance purposes only.
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