1972 LANCIA FULVIA SERIES II SPORT ZAGATO Registration Numb...

Estimate

£30,000 - £35,000

1972 LANCIA FULVIA SERIES II SPORT ZAGATO

Registration Number: KKX 463L
Chassis Number: 818.651.3066
Recorded Mileage: 39,950 miles

Maintaining Lancia’s unparalleled reputation for innovation in automobile design, the Fulvia saloon arrived in 1963, and two years later was followed by a 2+2 coupé on a shorter wheelbase. Though mechanically similar, the newcomer had all the visual presence its progenitor lacked. Tuned ‘HF’ versions provided increased performance, while for the style conscious there was the eye-catching Sport Zagato, characterised by one of the Milanese carrozzeria’s typically lightweight and aerodynamic bodies. Introduced in 1965 with the 1,216cc engine, the Sport Zagato was later offered with the 1,231cc, 1,298cc and eventually the 1,584cc HF unit. A five-speed gearbox was standard equipment from 1971. Production ceased in 1972. Lighter and more nimble than the standard Fulvia, the Sport distinguished itself in competition, particularly in long distance events – Fulvia Sport Zagatos scored highly in the Sebring 12 Hours and Daytona 24 Hours (where a Sport earned a class win in 1969). Ex-works HF rally cars aside, the Sport Zagato is the most desirable and collectible of all the Fulvias and undeniably one of the most striking designs of its era. 

A relatively rare sight even when new, this wonderful matching numbers Series II car is believed to be one of around 30 remaining examples in the UK today, and fewer than 10 from this year of production. The Fulvia was registered to its first private owner in September 1972, who enjoyed the car for 13 years before ownership passed to another nearby enthusiast, himself keeping the Fulvia, largely dry stored, for almost 30 years until finally deciding to sell in 2014. The Fulvia joined a large South African collection for a number of years, benefiting from a mechanical overhaul and refinishing of its paint to the original shade. At the time the car was repainted all the body panels and floor panels were said to be original and rust-free, so no repairs as such were required to the car’s structure. The interior and exterior trim were left in original and excellent order and so were untouched. The car had a full mechanical check over, with new parts fitted as required, such as a replacement clutch, and the overhauling of both Solex carburettors.

Since its return to the UK the Lancia was sent to UK specialist Omicron in Norfolk for further works. A new head gasket was fitted, and a full service performed, at a cost of £2,888.52. The UK V5 document which accompanies the car is still as issued in July 1985 to the second and most recent private owner. The Fulvia was granted a new MoT certificate in May 2023, with no advisories. The Lancia shows 39,963 miles recorded, which is believed to be correct.

Finished in its original colour scheme of Rosso Palermo with its original black interior and 14” steel wheels, this beautiful, hugely capable and interesting sportscar, this rare Zagato-bodied GT makes a great alternative to more obvious European competitors.