1983 Lancia Beta Monte Carlo
The Lancia Beta Montecarlo was launched in 1975 and derives its name from the victory of Lancia in the legendary Monte Carlo rally.
The Lancia Montecarlo is a Pininfarina-designed mid-engined coupe which is a rare sight on today’s roads, with only 286 right-hand drive Series 2 models delivered to the UK.
On the road, this 1983 Lancia Beta Monte Carlo is a delight with an alive communicative feel through the chassis only mid-engined cars can offer.
The front brake design issue has been addressed with the Series 2 and with the free-revving 2-litre twin cam she is surprisingly quick with an exhaust note to match.
There were several exterior and interior updates on the second series cars, including a beautiful Momo steering wheel in the cabin. The engine was retained but revised: higher compression ratio, Marelli electronic ignition and new carburettors made for a torque gain. This specific car was first registered in 1983. It has been restored to a very nice standard, finished in striking ivory with black interior and wheels painted in silver.
The Montecarlo suffered from several issues. Between the taller springs used to meet the US height requirements, a lack of caster, and bump steer, handling of US market Montecarlo did not meet the promises of the car’s design.
