The Lancia Montecarlo is a mid-engine sports car built by Lancia from 1975 to 1981, an exception of 1979 as both with first series and second series.
First-series Montecarlo produced from 1975 to 1978 initially as Beta Montecarlo comes with 2-litre engine as Lampredi rated at 118-bhp. The first-series also comes with "bow-tie" wheels, an upholstered with vinyl finish, and an optional right side-mirror. In USA, the Montecarlo badged as Scorpion to avoid ones used from Chevrolet. After 1978, the Montecarlo halted it's production until 1980, but the engine was downsized to 1.8-litre for the compliance.
The second-series Montecarlo has limited production until 1981, it is simply badged as Montecarlo. The said series has an upgraded powertrain, wheels and brakes including revised design notably on it's pillar.
The Montecarlo suffered issues mainly on suspension, then includes with brakes and corrosion.
It has a racing version as a basis includes the Rally 037, Montecarlo Turbo and Fiat Abarth SE 030.
Appearances[]
- In a segment for original Top Gear, during a Lancia Special, Jeremy Clarkson praised the MonteCarlo's styling, handling, drivetrain and interior but found fault with its lack of brakes.
- In Series 14, Episode 3, during the History of Lancia segment, despite criticising with its brakes, Richard praised the MonteCarlo's styling and handling.
- In One for the Road, Clarkson chooses the Montecarlo as the car he's always wanted to own, against Hammond in a Ford Capri GXL and May in a Triumph Stag as they venture across Zimbabwe for their last ever adventure. His Montecarlo had a minor engine issue compared to Hammond's Capri GXL, including the busted air-con.