1/24 Stratos HF '77 Monte-Carlo Rally Winner

HSGWA-25232

The Lancia Stratos was developed as the world's first purpose-built machine,
born as an innovative mid-engine machine with FRP cowlings at the front and rear.
In the 1970s, the power competition in rallying intensified year by year, and
winning required high performance and a lightweight, compact machine.
Lancia abandoned the idea of creating rally machines based on production cars, and
the Stratos was developed solely with the purpose of winning the world's first WRC title. In
November 1970, Bertone unveiled the original Stratos at the Turin Motor Show, and in November 1971 , they presented Lancia with a second prototype car
incorporating a mid-engine layout . The following year, although still a prototype, it participated in various events, further refining it before entering the WRC. Production of the Stratos began in October 1973, and it obtained Group 4 homologation in October 1974, immediately making its debut at the WRC Round 5, the Sanremo Rally. The Stratos maintained its lead throughout the race, demonstrating overwhelming performance and brilliantly winning its debut race, securing the manufacturers' title for that season. In 1975, when it entered full competition, Italian airline Alitalia became the main sponsor, and it won the manufacturers' title again. Its dominance did not wane in 1976, achieving the remarkable feat of winning the manufacturers' title for the third consecutive year, and setting a brilliant record of winning the opening race in Monte Carlo for three consecutive years from 1975 to 1977. The Lancia Stratos is a representative rally car of the 1970s.