A Lancia Delta HF Integrale Evoluzione II owned by Rowan Atkinson CBE is set to be auctioned next month.
The low-mileage 1993 example, finished in rare Lord Blue, has been owned by the Mr Bean and Blackadder star since 2021.
After two years in Atkinson’s care, the iconic hot hatchback will be sold as part of the Silverstone Auctions Race Retro Show at Stoneleigh Park in Warwickshire.
From stage to street
The Lancia Delta HF Integrale was a powerhouse of rallying in the late 1980s and early 1990s. It became one of the most successful competition cars ever, winning the World Rally Championship manufacturers’ title six times in row, from 1987 to 1992.
Lancia’s rallying exploits with the Integrale resulted in several homologation specials. All featured turbocharged engines and four-wheel drive, with increasingly wild bodywork as development progressed.
The final Evo II version of the Integrale featured a range of performance upgrades. A new turbocharger saw the 2.0-litre engine boosted to 215hp, with a three-stage catalytic converter also installed.
New 16-inch alloy wheels, a leather-covered steering wheel and high-backed Recaro sports seats were all included, too.
A true enthusiast owner
This particular Integrale Evo II was first delivered to Japan, before being shipped to the UK in 2011. Its Lord Blue paintwork contrasts neatly with the tan Alcantara upholstery, adding a degree of luxury to this rally weapon.
Atkinson is known for his impressive car collection, having previously owned a McLaren F1. He acquired the Lancia in May 2021, and had added 3,000km (1,864 miles) to the car during his tenure.
Silverstone Auctions notes that no expense has been spared in terms of maintenance during the past two years. A comprehensive history file comes with the car, including the Lancia’s Japanese service records. This helps detail the current 90,000km (56,000 miles) recorded on the odometer.
Retro rides and royal connections
Demand for well-preserved Lancia Delta HF Integrales is already high, with the Evo II model the most sought-after. Having a famous former owner, known for being passionate about cars, only adds to the appeal of this particular Lancia.
Ahead of the auction, a guide price of between £65,000 and £75,000 has been listed for the Integrale.
The Race Retro Show sale takes place on Saturday 25 February 2023.
Crossing the block along with the Lancia will be a host of celebrity-owned Lotus Elans, plus two cars previously used by the British royal family.
ALSO READ:
Lancia Thema 8.32: the sensible saloon with a Ferrari engine
