Lot 125: Lancia Monte Carlo Spider

The Lancia Monte Carlo was first seen in 1976. This 2.0 litre, mid-engine coupe was originally thought of as a big brother to the diminutive Fiat X1/9 and was even designated as the X1/20 during development. Eventually and inextricably, the Fiat bosses gave the car a Lancia badge and called it the Beta Montecarlo, despite the model having very little in common with the rest of the Beta range. This chunky, mid-engined Lancia offered 120mph performance in an unmistakably Italian package but sales suffered because of association with the problematic Beta. The Monte Carlo deserved a better fate but after only two years in production, it was withdrawn from the market. The model did reappear in 1980 with a number of improvements but the car was basically the same as that which appeared in 1976. This 1977 example is said to have covered just 54,747 miles, which is warranted as being correct and is supported by MoT certificates and service invoices. Acquired by the last owner in 1979, who lived in Cyprus, the car was used sparingly during his UK summer visits, clocking up around 500 miles per year. The car was dry stored when not in use. The car was acquired by the vendor in 2007 and was recommissioned with a full brake overhaul and minor works for the MoT. It is said to be completely unrestored and is said to drive very well. So much so that it has been in daily use.