The 1990 Lancia Delta Integrale: A Rally Legend
The automotive world in the late 20th century was no stranger to the thrill of rally racing, a sport that pushed the limits of both drivers and their machines. Among the legends of this era, the 1990 Lancia Delta Integrale stands out as an icon, revered for its groundbreaking engineering, stunning performance, and indomitable presence in rally history.
A Rally Icon is Born
The Lancia Delta Integrale, introduced in 1988, was a high-performance evolution of the Lancia Delta, a compact family car launched in 1979. However, it was the Integrale versions that captured the hearts of enthusiasts and racers alike. By 1990, the Integrale had already made a significant mark on the World Rally Championship (WRC), establishing Lancia as a dominant force in the sport.
Engineering Excellence
The 1990 Integrale featured a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four engine, capable of producing around 200 horsepower and 220 lb-ft of torque. This was a substantial output for a compact car of its time, allowing the Integrale to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just over six seconds. The all-wheel-drive system, a crucial component for rally success, provided exceptional traction and stability across diverse and often treacherous terrains.
The car's suspension system was also noteworthy, designed to handle the rigorous demands of rally racing. The MacPherson struts with coil springs, anti-roll bars, and dampers were meticulously tuned to provide the perfect balance between road handling and off-road capability. The Integrale's wide track and fender flares not only enhanced its aggressive stance but also improved stability and grip.
Design and Aesthetics
Visually, the 1990 Delta Integrale was a perfect blend of function and form. Its boxy, angular design was both aerodynamic and aggressive, a look that was further accentuated by its wide wheel arches and signature rally livery. The functional hood vents and integrated rear spoiler were not just for show; they contributed to the car's performance by improving cooling and aerodynamics.
Inside, the Delta Integrale was relatively spartan, reflecting its rally roots. However, it offered a driver-focused cockpit with supportive Recaro seats, a thick-rimmed steering wheel, and clear instrumentation, all designed to keep the driver in complete control, whether on a rally stage or a winding mountain road.
Rally Dominance
The Delta Integrale's prowess on the rally circuit is perhaps its most celebrated aspect. By 1990, it had already secured multiple WRC titles. The Integrale's superior engineering, combined with Lancia's relentless pursuit of perfection, enabled it to dominate the rally scene. The 1990 season saw Lancia winning both the manufacturers' and drivers' championships, further cementing the Integrale's legacy.
Its success wasn't just due to raw power and engineering; it was also a testament to Lancia's innovative approach. The car's advanced turbocharging technology, combined with a sophisticated all-wheel-drive system and meticulous attention to detail in its construction, made it unbeatable in the harsh and varied conditions of rally racing.
Legacy and Impact
The 1990 Lancia Delta Integrale is more than just a car; it's a symbol of an era when rally racing captured the imagination of motorsport fans around the world. Its success on the track translated to a cult following off it, with enthusiasts and collectors seeking out Integrales for their performance, heritage, and timeless design.
Today, the Lancia Delta Integrale remains a highly sought-after classic, celebrated at car shows and in private collections. Its influence is still felt in modern performance cars, many of which draw inspiration from its pioneering technology and design.
Conclusion
The 1990 Lancia Delta Integrale is a testament to what can be achieved when passion, innovation, and engineering excellence come together. It not only redefined what a rally car could be but also left an indelible mark on automotive history. For those who appreciate the art of driving and the spirit of competition, the Delta Integrale remains an enduring symbol of rallying greatness.
The offered Lancia comes from Switzerland, that's why it has, for example, a 16V bonnet with a bulge, which was supplied to the local market. Interestingly, the engine block is also already 16V and therefore has piston skirts, which is quite a significant improvement over the older versions. The car has already been painted, but apart from a few details it is stock. However, it does have a ceramic clutch, for example, and the powerflex silentblocks provide greater chassis security. The brakes have also been serviced. They're covered by 17-inch forged wheels in the style of the Evo versions (though the original wheels are available, of course). Inside, a Sparco frame is fitted (from the first owner in Switzerland), as well as Sparco sports seats and Sabelt seatbelts. The car moved to Austria during its lifetime, from where it came to Czechia. It was subsequently bought by the current owner, a great connoisseur and collector of Lancias. There are documents and manuals for the vehicle.
Production date | 1990 |
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Body Type | Hatchback |
Engine | 1.995 ccm, 177 PS, I4 |
transmission | Manual |
Steering | Left Hand Drive |
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Layout | All Wheel Drive |
Color - exterior | Red |
Color - interior | Black / Grey |
Miles/Kilometers shown | 139.721 km |
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Chassis / VIN | ZLA831AB000523160 |
Location - Country | Czechia |
Location - City | Pisek |
5-door hatchback body type; 4x4 full-time (all-wheel drive permanent, center differential with Ferguson type viscous, 47/53 torque distribiution, torsen self-locking rear differential), manual 5-speed gearbox; gasoline (petrol) engine with displacement: 1995 cm3, advertised power: 130 kW / 174 hp / 177 PS (ECE), torque: 290 Nm; characteristic dimensions: outside length: 3898 mm, width: 1686 mm, wheelbase: 2479 mm; reference weights: base curb weight: 1250 kg; top speed: 212 km/h (132 mph) (declared by factory); accelerations: 0-60 mph 6.5 s, 0-100 km/h 6.9 s (declared by factory)
Mlada Boleslav, Czechia
Jablonec nad Nisou, Czechia
Jablonec nad Nisou, Czechia
Prague, Czechia
Prague, Czechia
Pisek, Czechia