Following in the wheel tracks of the legendary Stratos, the 037 Rally would make almost as big an impact in international rallying in the 1980s as its illustrious forebear had in the preceding decade.

It seems hardly credible today, but after Lancia had built the 400+ examples of the Stratos needed for homologation, most gathered dust because few people wanted to buy one.

Within a very short time however, the Stratos was recognised as one of the great cars of its time; they were snapped up and prices soared.

In retrospect it seems obvious that the Stratos was a great car; it came from one of the most distinguished marques in automotive history and was very successful.

Despite the Stratos, people have yet to wake up to the potential of its successors as investments or as thoroughbred classics that are delightful to own and drive.

The Lancia Rally 037 has an impeccable pedigree and record - it won the 1983 World Rally Championship - yet has still to be fully appreciated.

When it ma...