Lancia prepares a new Stratos... 55 examples, Maserati MC20 base and more than a million euros

It's an announcement nobody really saw coming. While Lancia actively preparing its return to the limelight with the future Gamma, expected in the next few months, the Italian brand has sprung a surprise by releasing images on its social networks of a far more emotional project: a new Stratos.

A name that, in itself, is enough to awaken an entire era. Back in November 1971, at the Turin Motor Show. On the Bertone stand, the Stratos HF a sensation. A radical silhouette, designed for competition, that would forever mark the golden age of rallying. More than fifty years later, Lancia looks set to write a new chapter.

According to several indiscretions, this new Stratos would not be a simple styling exercise. It is said to be based on the Stellantis group's well-known technical base: that of the Maserati MC20, also used for the exceptional Alfa Romeo 33 Stradale. Carbon architecture, ultra-exclusive positioning... and above all, performance to match the myth.

Under the hood, the 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 already seen on these models is the logical choice. With its 630 hp in the MC20 and 33 Stradale, it would give this modern Stratos performance worthy of today's best supercars. In other words, it remains true to the radical spirit of the original.

But this project takes exclusivity a step further. To celebrate the 55th anniversary of the Stratos, Stellantis is planning a limited production run of just 55 examples. A highly symbolic number... and a positioning that leaves little room for doubt: the price tag would be well over a million euros.

Behind this announcement, a strategy seems to be taking shape. For some years now, Stellantis has shown a clear desire to revive its strongest icons. After Alfa Romeo's highly acclaimed return of the 33 Stradale, it's now Lancia's turn to revive its most prestigious heritage.

And as with the Milanese supercar, there's every reason to believe that the die has already been cast. The group's best customers have reportedly been approached in advance, chequebooks in hand, ready to secure one of the 55 examples even before the project has been fully formalized.

If confirmed, this new Stratos could well be more than just a tribute. A true rebirth, designed for a handful of enthusiasts... but capable, once again, of thrilling the entire automotive planet. 🐟