Think Rallying, Think Lancia at Race Retro 2011

By David Batten-Hill on 10.12.2010

Think rallying, think Lancia! The celebrated rally marque will be at next year’s Race Retro, when the event returns to Stoneleigh Park, Coventry in the earlier time slot of 25-27 February.

For decades, the Italian car-maker, famous for its Fulvia, Stratos and 037 models, has been associated with one of the toughest – if not THE toughest – form of motor sport, which tests a car’s strength and durability to the max over many gruelling miles and hours.

There will be a magnificent static Lancia display in Hall 1 (the Rally Hall) but the magic will come to life on the Live Rally Stage, sponsored by Hero. The newly designed course proved a hit in 2010 with the drivers and visitors alike, and the organisers are hoping to ‘up the ante’ once again with further modifications.

Few car-makers have enjoyed a strong rallying pedigree across several decades. However, the record books speak for themselves: the Lancia Stratos took the World Rally Championship constructors’ championship crown three times (1974, 1975 and 1967) while the 037 did the same in 1983. The Lancia Delta went on to win the six consecutive titles, from 1987 to 1992. And it wasn’t just the cars that scored well – both Juha Kankkunen and Miki Biasion won drivers’ titles piloting a Lancia.

Today Lancias are a dominant force in historic rallying, recreating their illustrious past for a new generation of fans. So whether it’s a 1960s Fulvia HF, the much-loved ‘70s Stratos or the later 037, S4 and Integrale, Race Retro is bringing together numerous examples of the marque for a well-deserved tribute.

Adult ticket prices start at just £20 for Friday and Saturday, £15 for Sunday when booking in advance. Children’s tickets are £5 on Friday or Saturday and free on Sunday. Parking is also free throughout. The show is open from 9.30am each day and closes at 5.30pm on Friday and Saturday, and 4.30pm on Sunday. Tickets, and the latest updates, are available at www.raceretro.com