The introduction of the Fulvia saloon in 1963 maintained Lancia’s reputation for innovation in car design. Designed by Antonio Fessia, the boxy-styled Appia replacement featured an all-new, narrow-angle V4 overhead-camshaft engine with front wheel drive; independent double wishbone front suspension and disc brakes all round. A shorter wheelbase 2+2 coupé was launched in 1965 and, although mechanically similar with an 80bhp 1,216cc engine, the beautiful newcomer had all the visual presence its predecessor lacked. In 1967 the model was up-rated with the 85bhp 1,298cc engine, becoming the Fulvia Rallye 1.3. Tuned, lightweight ‘HF’ versions provided further increased performance and formed the basis of the works’ highly successful rally programme that saw the Fulvia HF1600 secure Lancia’s first Manufacturers’ World Rally Championship in 1972. Original Content – Copyright © 2016 Coys of Kensington