If you grew up in the vibrant eighties, chances are you spotted a Lancia Delta cruising your neighborhood. With its iconic, boxy hatchback design, the Delta was a beloved presence on European roads. I vividly remember a dark blue version parked nearby, a sight that evokes a wave of nostalgia. The Delta isn't just a memory, though; it's a symbol of racing excellence, having dominated the World Rally Championship (WRC) in the late '80s and early '90s. Today, only a handful remain on the streets, but car enthusiasts like Eugenio Amos and Carlo Borromeo are determined to keep its spirit alive with their stunning creation—the Automobili Amos Delta Integrale Safaristi.

A Rallying Icon

The Lancia Delta was produced from 1979 to 1999, returning briefly with a different design from 2008-2014. It first dazzled at the Frankfurt Motor Show in 1979, where its striking, angular design by Giorgetto Giugiaro earned it the prestigious Car of the Year title in 1980. The introduction of the Delta HF Integrale solidified its place in rally history, ushering in a golden era for Lancia in motorsport.

Lancia was no stranger to success prior to the Delta, boasting legendary models like the Fulvia, Stratos, and 037, which left indelible marks on rallying lore. The Fulvia emerged victorious throughout the '60s and '70s, while the Stratos—a wedge-shaped marvel—took the championship by storm in 1974, 1975, and 1976. Following a few years of drought, the 037 brought excitement back in the early '80s, winning the 1983 Constructor's Championship against all odds, thanks to its lightweight design and agile handling.

The Delta 4S was another heavyweight champion, born out of the Group B regulations. With a turbocharged, supercharged engine pushing an astounding 490bhp, it clinched multiple victories before Group B was ultimately dissolved. The Delta HF Integrale, however, would rise to fame, securing six consecutive Constructors' Championships between 1987 and 1992, solidifying its status as the most successful car in WRC history.

The Safaristi from Automobili Amos

With such a legacy, it's no surprise that Lancia enthusiasts are breathing new life into the Delta. Automobili Amos, founded by the visionary duo Eugenio Amos and Carlo Borromeo in 2016, aims to create the best possible Lancia Delta. Their brainchild, the Automobili Amos Delta Integrale, comes in two configurations: Futuristi and Safaristi.

The Futuristi reimagines the Delta with modern amenities and engineering prowess, featuring cutting-edge materials like carbon fiber, upgraded suspension, and luxurious interiors. However, for those seeking a true off-road experience, the Safaristi takes the Delta's ruggedness to a whole new level.

Transforming a donor Delta into the Safaristi involves meticulous craftsmanship. The car is stripped down and rebuilt, focusing on functionality over luxury while maintaining its striking aesthetics. The transformation includes removing the rear doors—an homage to its racing pedigree—while reinforcing the chassis and upgrading the suspension to tackle challenging terrains.

The upgraded engine, coupled with a Motec ECU and an anti-lag system, delivers nearly 400bhp through a sequential five-speed gearbox, making it an off-road beast. With Pirelli Scorpion tires designed for the roughest trails and high-performance Brembo brakes for stopping power, the Safaristi is built for adventure.

Inside, the racing-inspired cabin boasts carbon racing buckets, a Sabelt steering wheel, and a Motec instrument panel—all designed to elevate your driving experience. Whether you find yourself racing across the dunes in Dakar or navigating icy Swedish roads, the Safaristi channels the spirit of legendary rally drivers like Juha Kankkunen and Miki Biasion.

A Pricey Pursuit

As with most bespoke automotive creations, expect the price tag to match the craftsmanship. The starting cost for the Automobili Amos Delta Integrale Safaristi is a staggering EUR 570,000. This figure does not include the cost of the donor vehicle, which is also a significant investment. Automobili Amos plans to produce only 10 units, allowing each buyer to customize their ride according to their preferences.

So, who’s interested in taking a piece of rally history home? Cheers to an exhilarating ride with the Automobili Amos Delta Integrale Safaristi—indeed, a toast to the golden years of rallying!