Prepare to be amazed as we delve into the story of a unique 1975 Lancia Fulvia Safari, a rare gem that might just be a steal at its asking price of $27,500. This car has an intriguing history and a captivating presence, but is it worth the investment? Let's find out!
First, a little background. Lancia, once a renowned Italian automaker and a dominant force in rally racing, has sadly fallen from grace. Today, it's reduced to a single model, a mere reskin of the Peugeot e-208. A far cry from its glorious past, right? The blame falls on Fiat, Lancia's parent company since 1969, which has struggled to understand and utilize Lancia's unique identity.
This particular Fulvia coupe, designed before Fiat's takeover, showcases some of Lancia's distinctive features. Under the hood lies a 1.3-liter narrow-angle V4 engine, a design that predates Volkswagen's VR series by decades. With its DOHC cylinder head and fed by Solex side-draught carburetors, this mill delivers a factory-rated 100 horsepower. Positioned longitudinally and tilted at a 45-degree angle, the engine is a work of art, with its radiator tucked neatly to the side.
The Safari edition of the Fulvia is a special treat. Only 900 were built to commemorate Lancia's victory in the Kenyan Safari Rally. This particular car, number 872 out of those 900, boasts unique features like deleted bumpers, special denim-insert seat upholstery, and model-specific badging. Despite losing its original wheels and seat upholstery, the car retains its charm and originality.
With just 43,000 miles on the clock and a clean Montana title, this Fulvia is a practical classic. It's old enough to bypass emissions controls in states like California, a bonus for those who want to enjoy it without the hassle of registration restrictions.
While the ad claims the car is all original, there are a few notable deviations. The rockers show signs of an older repair, and the wheels, though from a Lancia Beta, are not authentic. The biggest departure is the seats, reupholstered in black vinyl or leather, losing a key element of the Safari's identity.
The exterior is in good shape, with no major issues. The seller claims it's rust-free, and the pictures support this claim. The only notable flaw is the fading tail lamp lenses, which add a touch of patina but could be improved with new plastic.
Underneath, the car is solid. A slight oil mist under the gearbox is the only notable issue, likely from a rear main seal or oil pan gasket. The FWD setup with a beam axle and cart springs is a simple design, but Lancia's lateral link and anti-roll bar make it a capable handler. These cars are quick and fun, especially with that lively little V4 engine.
The Fulvia line represents one of Lancia's greatest achievements, and this particular car is a rare find in the States. It's rough enough to be a practical classic, a car you can enjoy on weekends without keeping it hidden away. But is $27,500 a fair price for this piece of automotive history? That's the question we're here to answer.
So, what do you think? Is this Fulvia Safari a steal, or is it overpriced for its current condition? Weigh in and let us know your thoughts! This is a car that deserves a second chance, and your opinion matters.
Don't forget to check out the ad on Los Angeles Craigslist or the provided link if it disappears. And if you have a tip for Nice Price or No Dice, send it to robemslie@gmail.com, and remember to include your commenter handle. Let's keep the automotive conversation going!
