This Lancia Delta Integrale still has its factory cellophane after 30 years... its auction price is insane

There was a time when it leapt between the fir trees, exhaust on fire and all-wheel drive raging. Today, the Lancia Delta HF Integrale no longer thrills the stages... but the auction rooms. And what's in store for 2026 could well mark a new turning point in the madness surrounding this rally icon.

From WRC queen to collector's icon

The Delta has a unique history. Launched in 1979 and designed by Giorgetto Giugiaro, it was originally a sensible compact car. But when the Groupe B era came to an abrupt end in 1986, following the tragedy involving Henri Toivonen.., Lancia transformed this base model into a war machine. With the HF 4WD and Integrale versions, the Italian marque simply dominated the world rally championship: six consecutive manufacturers' titles between 1987 and 1992, 46 victories, and an aura that even today exceeds that of many modern supercars.

On the road, the Evoluzione versions, with their widened fenders and sharpened turbocharged engine, offered sensations very close to those of racing cars. An explosive cocktail, despite a sometimes capricious mechanical reputation.

A spectacular price surge

Long accessible, the Delta Integrale has now become an object of speculation. In Europe, the simplest versions can still be found for between €5,000 and €20,000, but Integrales are now selling for between €30,000 and €70,000. For the most sought-after versions, notably the Evoluzione, prices are skyrocketing. It's no longer unusual to see examples fetching over €100,000, and even over €200,000 for exceptional cars.

Villa d'Este 2026: the Delta enters a new dimension

But the Concorso d'Eleganza Villa d'Este 2026 could well redefine standards. A Lancia Delta HF Integrale Evoluzione Martini 6 will be on offer at the accompanying auction.

Produced in just 310 examples to celebrate Lancia's sixth consecutive world title, this special edition is already a collector's item in its own right. But the example on display goes even further. With only 2,367 kilometers on the odometer, all original paintwork, interiors still protected by their original cellophane and even its car radio never installed, this Delta is in near-new condition. A true time capsule.

The result: estimates of between €325,000 and €375,000. A completely new level for a Delta, which brings it closer to some classic Ferraris.

This “Martini 6” model embodies everything that makes the Delta so popular: an unrivalled track record, limited production, instantly recognizable aesthetics and extreme rarity in this state. And it won't be alone. Other prestigious Lancia models will also be offered for sale, such as the Lancia Stratos HF Stradale, estimated at up to €800,000, and the Aurelia and Flaminia, which bear witness to the brand's rich past. Today, this dream comes at a price. And at Villa d'Este, it could well reach unprecedented heights.