If you have been following the automotive industry, then you probably already know that Lancia is preparing a new Stratos model. At first it was thought that the model seen testing was just a little project being worked on by a European industrialist, but rumors are suggesting that the Stratos model is definitely in the works. And these latest spy shots seem to be the proof you might have needed to believe them.

The new Lancia Stratos will be based on the structure and running gear of the Ferrari F430 Scuderia and will be unveiled later this year. It will weight less than 1200kg and the Scuderia's engine will be lightly tuned for its application in the Stratos.

The Stratos was originally conceived as a rally car and was designed by Bertone. It was powered by a Dino sourced engine, with an output of 280 HP, but possible to be updated to 560 HP when a single KKK turbocharger was added. There were only 492 units ever made, so the Stratos is very rare to this day. In 1978, Bertone created and designed a concept car based on the Stratos called the Sibilo, although it was never intended for production.

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