Sky no limit for new Lancia Stratos

Lancia's iconic rally special from the 1970s could be reborn. And those familiar with the Bertone-styled original will have no trouble identifying the 21st century version.

The Fiat offshoot has been developing a modern version of the mid-engined coupe, possibly stepping up from the original's 2.5-litre Ferrari Dino V6 powerplant to an as-yet undesignated Ferrari V8.

According to press scuttlebutt, the new Stratos is Ferrari F430 based and was developed over four years with a generous budget to be a serious supercar contender. Compact dimensions, clamshell doors, ceramic brakes and a spectacular power-weight ratio make for a delicious combination.

But will it be possible to buy one?

On that, the jury appears to be out, especially in light of original information that the car is a one-off funded by a wealthy industrialist -- although some sources suggest the real deal will be formally introduced to journalists at the Paul Ricard circuit in France during November this year.

The original Stratos followed the futuristic wedge-shaped Stratos Zero concept car first viewed at the 1970 Turin motor show that would still be spectacular by today's standards. Styling of the functioning Stratos was only loosely based on the show car.

Lancia raced and rallied the Stratos as a Group 5 prototype in the early 1970s and won the World Rally Championship titles in 1974, 1975 and 1976. It also claimed victories in the Monte Carlo Rally in 1975, 1976 and 1977. Only 492 were built between 1972 and the end of production in 1974.

As for the maybe/maybe not Stratos revival, watch this space  . . .

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