Lancia Beta Monte Carlo 037 Stradale & Group 5 to Group B 1980-1984

Homologation of a racing car in Group B category requested at least 200 road going examples to be produced; this explains that several high performance cars intended for racing were also declined in street legal version.
During Retromobile 2012 in Paris, a red Lancia 037 Stradale 1984 with 11.000 km at the odometer was sold for 196.000 Euros at Artcurial Auction. A Lancia 037 Martini Group B was exhibited at the same Show by Youngtimers. The Stradale version was part of the homologation process. The racing version started as a Group 5 before evolving to Group B. The racing involvement was quite impressive with World Endurance Championship win in 1980 and 1981. A Lancia 037 Group 5 even finished in 15th position at 1981 24 hours of Le Mans with Finotto, Pianta and Schon at the wheel.

At 1983 Monte Carlo rally, Röhrl and Alen finished in first and second place. The Lancia Beta Monte Carlo has also competed in Safary rallies.

The Lancia Rall1ye 037 was presented to the international press in December 1981. The Group B competition version was homologated in April 1982 and appeared in August 1982. For something homologated as an out-and-out rally car, the road-going version, known as the "Stradale ", was relatively well-equipped with electric windows and carpeted interior. The bodywork was finished using the latest high-quality plastics.

Rally 037 Group B specifications

Monocoque structure with tubular frame extensions; Body designed by Pinifarina and made of composite polyester; Engine 4 cylinders longitudinal in mid-ship position, 16 valves twin overhead camshaft, 1.995 cc, 325 hp at 8.500 rpm, Abarth compressor and one double barrel Weber carburettor; 5-speed ZF gearbox. Dimensions: wheelbase 2,44 m, length 3,91 m, width 1,85 m, height 1,24 m, weight 960 kg (Racing) 1170 kg (Stradale).

Lancia Beta Monte Carlo 037 Stradale & Group 5 to Group B 1980-1984