Classic products are timeless style icons. The Lancia Stratos of the 1970s, with its cutting-edge design, is still an inimitable styling emblem. Starting from an initial assessment of the original car’s aerodynamic performance, the new model was developed during sessions in the Pininfarina wind tunnel to corroborate the basic shape and, during the final testing stage of the project, to define the aerodynamic details. The objective was to create another mid-engined sports car with a short wheelbase, low weight and outstanding agility, using components from the Ferrari 430 Scuderia customised to their new purpose.
The chassis, completely redrawn and made of extruded aluminium elements; it is now 20 cm shorter, and welded to it is a roll cage of steel tubing 40 mm in diameter, certified by the FIA. The 4.3 litre V8 engine, which receives its intake air through the side openings of the rooftop spoiler, is fitted with a new control unit and a high performance exhaust system, including a manifold and catalyser. The 6-speed transmission has been fitted with a new self-locking mechanical differential, and the control electronics were modified to allow for extremely fast gear changes, in less than 60 milliseconds.
The exterior is built entirely of carbon fibre panels, incorporating low density structural inserts. The roof and the sides are the only fixed parts, assembled onto the chassis structure. The large front lid, the engine bonnet and the doors are all hinged like those on the original Stratos. The passenger compartment has a new dashboard, new instruments, new door panels and tailor-made race seats, all in carbon fibre.
The car has received official certification and type approval from the road division of the German TÜV organisation.
