The epitome of the Fulvia Coupé range, the 1600 HF ‘Fanalone,’ showcased a robust 1,584cc engine that delivered 115bhp in its road configuration, while in its rally setup, it could unleash an impressive 165bhp. From 1969 to 1974, the works team consistently relied on the 1600 HF, securing an astounding seven European Championship victories in 1970, six in 1971, and seven the following year, ultimately clinching the World Rally Championship for Makes in 1972.
In 1973, the title went to Alpine-Renault’s A110, but the 1600 HF wasn’t done yet, playing a crucial role in guiding Lancia to a second Makes championship in 1974, alongside the Stratos and Beta Coupé. Additionally, the remarkable driving skills of Harry Källström (1969) and Sandro Munari (1972) led them to become European Rally Champions, both behind the wheel of the 1600 HF. (At that time, the European Rally Championship was the FIA’s sole official rally championship for drivers before the introduction of the World Drivers’ Championship in 1978).
A milestone model of immense significance, the Fulvia 1600 HF firmly established Lancia’s prestigious reputation on the World Rallying stage, ultimately paving the way for the iconic Stratos, Rally 037, and Delta Integrale models. When production ceased in 1973, a total of 3,690 road-going 1600 HFs had been manufactured, and an additional 1,258 were built to ‘Rallye’ specifications, leaving an indelible mark on the history of rallying.
Source: Bonhams
