There are images that fascinate as much as they disturb. Those of two legendary Lancias from the 80s, abandoned in the basement of a parking lot in Germany, are clearly one of them. A Lancia Delta HF Integrale and a Lancia Thema Ferrari 8.32, two models that have become cult favorites, seem to have been waiting for years for an owner who hasn't returned. The photos were shared by the Instagram page rare_cars_deutschland, which specializes in unusual automotive discoveries across the Rhine. They show the two German-registered cars, covered in dust, leaves and dirt, in a condition that leaves little doubt: they haven't moved in a long time.
A Thema 8.32 and a not-so-ordinary Delta Integrale
The first is a Lancia Thema 8.32recognizable by its Ferrari engine and its status as one of the most powerful and refined sedans of the late '80s. Next to it is a Lancia Delta HF Integrale, fitted with a roll bar, suggesting a sporting or racing past. According to the testimonial accompanying the photos, these two cars have been parked in the underground parking lot of an office building "for years". Surprisingly, despite its unkempt appearance, the Delta still has a roadworthiness test valid until March next year, while that of the Thema 8.32 expired in 2023.
Delta HF Integrale: the identity debate
The photos soon sparked debate among connoisseurs. Some point to a 1987 Delta HF Integrale, the original version, rather than the Delta Evo of the '90s. But several observers note that the car seems to have received more recent visual elements, including headlights and a spoiler from the 1992 Delta. However, according to others, this is not an HF Evoluzione, but a modified Integrale, possibly with an HF Evoluzione hood. The Evo's characteristic body widening is not visible on the available photos. A mixture of parts that adds to the intrigue and mystery surrounding this car's history.
Another tasty detail: the number plates. The number "F832" clearly evokes the Thema Ferrari 8.32, while "HF" refers directly to the Delta Integrale. As for the number "831", it corresponds to the internal code of the Delta model. Carefully chosen plates by an enthusiast suggest that the owner(s) were well aware of the symbolic value of these cars.
A mystery that remains unsolved
There is no shortage of hypotheses. Missing collector, financial problems, personal impediment... For the moment, no official answer has emerged. Until the truth comes out, the Lancia Delta HF Integrale and Lancia Thema Ferrari 8.32 continue to gather dust.
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Working in Germany I'd see amazing Lancia's, unlike UK, where they never really hit the market strong. I always wondered how Lancia didn't hit the UK market's with such beautiful cars, maybe it was the Right hand drive situation. Needless to say, it's UK who missed out, and Germany even abandons Lancia's, how terrible!