Profile: 70 | Beta Montecarlo S1

Lancia Beta Montecarlo S1

Mid-engined big-brother to the Fiat X1/9, badged as a Lancia. Produced from 1975 to 1978, when production was stopped to correct a braking issue.

Originally fitted with an 185/70HR13 radial tyre.

Originally intended to be a Fiat, the Lancia Beta Montecarlo was launched in 1975, three years after the Beta saloon that sired it. All Beta Montecarlos came with a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine, but buyers could choose between coupé and Spyder editions, the latter getting a removable cloth roof panel.

By 1976 the Lancia Montecarlo had been launched in the North American market where it was sold as the Scorpion. These cars were fitted with a 1.8-litre engine rated at just 80bhp, with sales lasting for just two seasons.

By 1978 production of the Lancia Montecarlo had been halted to fix various problems, most notably a tendency for the front wheels to lock up when braking. The Montecarlo was relaunched in 1980, with a new grille, bigger wheels plus revised suspension and braking systems. Production continued for another two years before the model was killed off for good in 1982.