1972 Lancia Fulvia 1.6 Sport Zagato HF Lusso

Lot details
Registration No: GKO870L
Chassis No: 8187511715
Mot Expiry: June 2006

The Lancia Fulvia was introduced in 1963 as a replacement for the successful Appia series as the smallest model in the Lancia range. However despite being ostensibly their cheapest model, in true Lancia tradition no cost was spared in the engineering of the car. Powered by a V4 1098cc engine and with front wheel drive the Fulvia belied its boxy looks with a wonderful chassis which combined precise handling with a comfortable ride in a way few other cars of its size could approach. Thus despite being very expensive for its size (in the UK the Fulvia was almost the same price as a Jaguar Mk2 2.4) the Fulvia was very popular with the motoring 'cognescenti' who appreciated the sophisticated engineering and superior refinement that the Fulvia offered.
This appeal was greatly enhanced when the delectably pretty Coupe model was launched in 1965, a model which in 1.6 HF form achieved huge success in rallying in the late 1960s/early 1970s. However, the most expensive and rarest of the Fulvias arrived in 1967 when coachbuilder Zagato continued their long and successful association with Lancia marque with the launch of the Fulvia Sport Zagato. The striking fastback body featured an early use of the hatchback type third door, rectangular headlamps and even a side hinged bonnet on the shorter wheelbase used for the standard Coupe. Being even more expensive than the already costly Coupe the Zagato proved a rare sight on UK roads despite being officially produced in right hand drive form. Launched with the Coupe's 1298cc version of the V4 engine, Lancia introduced a 1.6 model in 1971 featuring the homologation special engine from the 1.6 HF to create an exceptional driver's car. Very rare in right hand drive form (only 80 are thought to have been produced) all came to the UK in Lusso specification featuring such luxuries as electric windows and leather seats. Production of the Zagato bodied models finished in 1972, one year before the Berlina with the Coupe continuing up to 1976.
H&H are pleased to be able to offer a rare right hand drive Fulvia Sport Zagato 1.6 here today. Originally built in 1972 but registered in 1973 (and therefore eligible for free road tax) this dark red example with beige leather trim is believed but not warranted to have covered 61,000 miles from new. We are told that the car has benefited from welding from Lancia specialist Richard Thorn and comes with a large history file including photographs of the restoration, magazine articles, previous MOTs and original owners handbook. Mot'd until June 2006 and currently taxed the car is ready to drive away from the sale and will surely turn heads as well as providing a wonderful driving experience.