Tag Archives: Beta

1981 Lancia Beta 2000 with 37,000 miles

August 26, 2014 Graham

The Lancia Beta isn't a car that is remembered too fondly by some enthusiasts. Problems with corrosion plagued this car which led to structural failure at times. This was the first new Lancia after Fiat took over the company, and under the hood was a twin cam Fiat four cylinder engine. Nevertheless, the Beta became one of the best selling Lancias up to that point. It would also be the final model US customers would see. These cars are almost extinct on US roads today, but occasionally you'll see a good one pop up for sale. Such is the case with this 1981 Beta 2000 with under 40,000 miles for sale in Oregon.

Year: 1981
Model: Beta 2000
Engine: 2.0 liter inline-4
Transmission: 5-speed manual
Mileage: 37,382 mi
Price: No reserve auction

CLICK FOR DETAILS:1981 Lancia Beta 2000

Bella macchina Italiana Via!

One very rarely gets an opportunity to purchase a car like this. 3 owner California/Washington car from new, the last owners were an 85 year old couple from Union, WA who purchased it from a long time collector in Spokane, WA. They reported investing over $10,000.00 into this car to get it to the level it is currently. The car has just 37,382 actual miles. Clean Auto Check and CARFAX History Report with no accident indicators. A unique and wonderful sports car!

The Lancia Beta (Type 828) Coupe was produced from 1972-1984, and was the first "new" model introduced by Lancia after it was taken over by FIAT in 1969. This car is equipped with a fuel-injected 1995cc, DOHC transversely mounted I-4 mated to a manual 5-speed gearbox. It is equipped with Rack & Pinion Steering, Power Windows, Tilt Wheel, Air Conditioning, Rear Window Defogger, Shoulder Belts (front seats), 3 Speed Windshield Wipers, Day/Night Rearview Mirror, Dual Sport Exterior Mirrors, Reclining Bucket Seats, Air Horn, Fully Independent Front & Rear Suspension, and 4 Wheel Disc Brakes. These Front Wheel Drive models were widely regarded as being a "Driver's Car" by Industry Professionals and gained great popularity with the public. This car features an upgraded Kenwood AM/FM/CD player and nice 6" speakers that sound great, an Upgraded Sport Shift Knob (Original also included), and the addition of a tasteful front air dam spoiler painted to match the car. Original Wheels are wrapped with Pirelli Cinturato Radials with about 85% tread and has the original spare wheel and tire in the trunk (with cover). Even has the original windshield, and note the cool rear quarter "pop-out" windows! All gauges appear to work, including tach, speedometer, odometer, battery, oil temperature, water temperature, and fuel.

Interior has been redone with beautiful new seats, nice headliner, and good door panels, except for one small defect on the passenger rear. The black carpet is "good" over all, with some excessive wear on the driver's side front. 4 black floor mats are included. The dash is crack free. The car runs, drives, and shifts well, and recently completed a 200+ mile road trip with ease and got great gas mileage too! Lube, oil and filter service was just completed on 8-21-14. Beautiful shiny Onyx black paint is complemented by tasteful anthracite grey racing stripes on the bonnet and trunk lid, accented with a slim hand painted red pinstripe. It sets the car off and looks great! The paint shows well, with the standard amount of imperfections. It appears to be about a 2-3 year old paint job on a very straight body. All exterior lights have been checked and work properly. The car comes with 4 keys and the original key "number" metal tag.

The car will be sold as-is, where-is, with all faults expressed or implied. We will not be responsible for any errors or omissions and serious bidders are always encouraged to do their due diligence and inspect the car prior to bidding on it.

A $500 Paypal Deposit is required with the balance being due within 7 days of auction's end. We will store the car for 14 days before storage fees will incur at the rate of $35.00 per day. We are happy to assist with transportation suggestions, but the sole cost will remain with the buyer. A documentation fee of $75.00 will be charged if the new buyer resides in Oregon. The car currently wears a current Washington Collector Car license plate which will be removed at the time of sale unless the new buyer resides in Washington. We are a licensed, bonded dealer in the State of Oregon, established in 1989. We have 100% positive feedback on eBay so bid with confidence, and please ask any questions you have prior to bidding. We will do our best to answer them in a timely manner. You may also email or call/text David at (503)539-6609 between 9AM-7PM Pacific Time.

A portion of our sale proceeds will benefit the Milagro Foundation, a children's charity in California. Thanks for supporting this great cause!

Vehicle may be picked up from our warehouse in Lake Oswego, OR, approximately 10 miles south of Portland.

Please respond within 24 hours of auction's end and be prepared to sign and return a purchase order and necessary documents to title the car in your state. Any taxes and license fees are the responsibility of the buyer.

Thanks for your interest and Happy Bidding!

David A. Goldenberg Enterprises DA3423
16066 Boones Ferry Rd. Suite F
Lake Oswego, OR 97035
(503)539-6609 Voice
(503)699-6564 FAX
Established 1989

This car was recently appraised at $8,750.00, its current market value taking the low mileage into consideration.

The appraisal listed for this car seems about right according to the Hagerty Classic Car Price Guide, listing a top example at just over $9,000. At no reserve, it will be interesting to see where bidding ends up for this car, especially since part of the proceeds are going to a good cause. You just don't see Betas that have survived like this every year, let alone every day. If you want to make a statement at the next Fiat Club meet, here's the car in which to do it.

-Paul

Lancia, Pininfarina, Zagato

Double Take: 1980 and 1982 Lancia Beta Zagatos

April 19, 2014 Graham

With the sun finally creeping out from behind the clouds and the last throws of winter grumpily making way for spring flowers, it's nice to think about an affordable Italian roadster. Sure, the Ferrari 550 Barchetta is a great option if you own some oil fields in the Near East, but for most of us the budget will be a bit more modest. One of the more interesting options that would really set you apart would be to look at the Lancia Beta Zagato; if for no other reason than not many remain. Quick depreciation, spotty reliability and rust-prone panels mean these have become a rare sight in the U.S. However, two have popped up on Ebay that are near twins, though being born two years apart. Let's look at the elder first:

Year: 1980
Model: Beta Zagato
Engine: 2.0 liter inline-4
Transmission: 5-speed manual
Mileage: 39,838 mi
Price: No Reserve Auction

CLICK FOR DETAILS:1980 Lancia Beta Zagato

Up for a NO RESRVE AUCTION is a 1982 Lancia Zagato vin ZLAFS00C3C0203559 the listing would not read this vin? sorry for the confusion one fine car! This car is out of an estate sale that has been consigned, has duplicte title paper work, clean, Has 39k original miles, Original paint, leather,top, outstanding condition, Everything in working order runs smooth, no leaks, the red paint gleams, the tires are original and have some weather cracks. This car has been in storage since 04. but started once a week!. The car has original tool kit, spare , car cover! please email me for any questions! selling as is! if you win please have the funds!

Holy mackerel, it's got the original tires on it! What an impressive condition example; it certainly looks nearly good enough to have rolled off the showroom floor and displays none of the normal wear and tear that is associated with these budget convertibles. With under 40,000 miles on the clock and being a California car, the concerns about what's underneath that polished facade are put at ease. What about the second example?

This 1982 also looks pretty stellar, sporting a different grill setup but otherwise nearly the twin of the earlier model. Condition also looks outstanding on this example overall, though unlike the earlier car it appears this car was resprayed at some point:

Year: 1982
Model: Beta Zagato
Engine: 2.0 liter inline-4
Transmission: 5-speed manual
Mileage: 66,128 mi
Price: Reserve Auction

CLICK FOR DETAILS:1982 Lancia Beta Zagato

I have a very nice Lancia Zagato up for sale. This fun little Italian sports car reads only 66000 orig miles and runs and drives great with its peppy 4 cyl engine and 5 speed transmission,it's a joy to drive. The Targa and convertible top have been redone a few years back and look and work great. The paint on the car looks to have been redone at some point but not recent, it shines nice but not perfect. Bumpers and glass are near mint cond. the interior of the car is in very nice cond. no dash cracks,clean carpet,nice seats some seem separation on driver seat only .The engine is clean and runs smooth,the wheels are in nice cond tires should be replaced from lack of use. I have all books,manuals and some service records with the car. Please call or email with any questions. Thank You 1 603 387 1693

So it's a little less than perfect; I have no problem with that, although life in New Hampshire for a Lancia would give me a bit of concern. In this case, I'd spend a little extra to get the all-original California example. Hagerty lists top value of these cars around $12,000 and I'd expect the 1980 is heading that way; the 1982, while nice, probably is closer to half that value or slightly more, but I'd inspect it closely underneath before buying.

-Carter

Lancia

1976 Lancia Scorpion

January 19, 2014 Graham 2 Comments

Sometimes cars appear in a manufacturer's lineup to make one ask the question "just what were they thinking?" The Cadillac CTS-V wagon, Buick GN-X and Subaru SVX come to mind. If you dial back a bit further in time, the Lancia Scorpion, known as the Montecarlo in other markets, stands out. Designed on the Beta chassis, this car would form the basis of the 037, a very successful rally car of the 1980s. This mid-engined Lancia lasted but two model years in the US market, with only 1,801 sold. Rarely seen today, this Scorpion for sale in Pennsylvania has been in storage since 2001 and does not run. For a resourceful Lancia enthusiast, this could turn out to be a rewarding project.

Year: 1976
Model: Scorpion
Engine: 1.8 liter inline-4
Transmission: 5-speed manual
Mileage: 111,176 mi
Price: No reserve auction

CLICK FOR DETAILS:1976 Lancia Scorpion

1976 Lancia Scorpion Pininfarina. One owner with Pennsylvania A title. Not run since 2001. Nice project.

This Lancia Scorpion has been in dry indoor storage since the passing of the original owner in 2001. Bought new at Reading Foreign Car in Reading Pennsylvania. 111,176 miles. Not on the road since 2001. This is a non-running / non-operative project car. Red with sand leather interior. Repainted original color by original owner in the late 1990s. Interior is all there with the driver’s seat requiring work. Someone pulled the seat back adjustor handle thinking it to be the hand brake handle and snapped the plastic. Cloth top is nice but needs new rear top latches. Mechanical condition unknown. Engine turns by hand but may require work. I have no historical or maintenance documentation. Last Pennsylvania state inspection expired in February 2001. Will make a wonderfully fun driver. Don’t miss this opportunity to own a piece of automotive history. Sold as-is where-is. Low Reserve.

VIN: 137AS100176

Factory air conditioning
Excellent color
5 speed manual transmission
Paint looks very nice
Original owner’s manual
Glass is all good
One set of original keys
Valid Pennsylvania title
Solid chassis – had previous rust repair
Battery tray needs repair / replacement
Sold as-is where-is

Please email with any questions before bidding. Serious bidders are invited and encouraged to view the Lancia located at our shop in Reading, Pennsylvania 19601, USA. Sold as is where is. If interested, call Fred + 1 610 796 1446 eastern time zone. eBay members with less than 5 positive feedback must communicate with us before bidding. Very reasonable reserve.

Payment terms: $500 non-refundable PayPal deposit within 24 hours of auction end. Balance in cash upon pick-up or bank wire transfer. Full payment must be received within 7 calendar days of end of auction. Shipping arrangements are the responsibility of the auction winner. We will work in full cooperation with the transport company of your choice. Vehicle pick-up must be within 14 days of end of auction. Thank you.

We are the promoters of the Deutsche Classic, Mid Atlantic’s premier all German automotive event held in Reading, PA on Saturday July 12th, 2014 as well as the European+ Automotive Auction series.

If you could source a rebuilt Fiat 2.0 liter twin cam engine, this Scorpion would be a solid base for someone looking to tackle a series of projects that, in the end, would net a unique and attractive sports car. Like many Lancias, the Scorpion succumbed to rust easily, but this one looks to be a solid survivor, no doubt in part to being stored for a long while. The interior also could use a bit of attention, with seats in dire need of new upholstery. If the final bid can be held around the $4,000 to $4,500 mark, it would give the new owner enough room in the budget for the necessary work.

-Paul

Lancia

1977 Lancia Scorpion

August 18, 2013 Graham 3 Comments

Lancia’s history in the United States is sporadic at best. Few are aware of this marque’s current existence and those that do recognize that the lineup is purely a bunch of warmed over Fiats and Chryslers. These aren’t necessarily bad cars, but for such an individualistic company, these vehicles do little justice to the heritage of the marque. In the 1970s, it was a bit of a different story, as Lancia took the Beta architecture and had a go at making a mid-engined sports car out of it. And then sent it stateside. While its presence in the US was short-lived, it provides classic car buyers an interesting, rare and affordable option for those who want others to think they bought an exotic.

Year: 1977
Model: Scorpion
Engine: 1.8 liter inline-4
Transmission: 5-speed manual
Mileage: 22,799 mi
Price: Reserve auction

CLICK FOR DETAILS:1977 Lancia Scorpion

Good running Lancia, starts, runs, and drives like new. Car was professionally repainted several years ago NO BONDO OR RUST just wanted a color change and still looks like new. Engine compartment could use some detailing. Driven only in summer and stored inside a heated garage. Has a few small cracks on dash, and one seat seam has come apart see pictures. These cars are becoming hard to find in this condition. Top is in perfect condition, air conditioning needs re-charged. Ask questions before auction ends. I am not the original owner and do not have any service records on this vehicle normal maintenance has been done in house. Sold as is with no warranty expressed or implied. Buyer to arrange and pay shipping costs. Someone will be available to help load.

Not a lot of detail in terms of history is provided for this car, and there are no service records that come with the car. For a Lancia from this era, that’s like walking into a Casino and choosing the slot machine in the far corner that no one uses. You have no idea what you’re going to get. While they are rare, a lot of parts can be Fiat sourced and there is a strong club backing, so keeping your Scorpion alive shouldn’t be too difficult. If this is as sound as it looks, somewhere around the $5,000 to $6,000 range would be a good estimate for a vehicle that is becoming rarer than the proverbial hen’s tooth.

-Paul

Lancia

Beta Brothers: 1981 Lancia Beta Zagato and 1977 Lancia Beta HPE

August 7, 2013 Graham 3 Comments

Ah the Lancia Beta. Fodder for the petrolhead who will point out that everything which has four wheels and Italian is crankier than a two year old who missed a meal. This was the car that brought Lancia to their knees and would turn out to be a big factor in their pullout from both the US and UK markets. However, should this car be maligned as much as it is? Maybe it's about time for a second look. Let's check out two rather different Beta models, starting off with this red Zagato for sale in Massachusetts.

Year: 1981
Model: Beta Zagato
Engine: 2.0 liter inline-4
Transmission: 5-speed manual
Mileage: 84,000 mi
Price: Reserve auction

CLICK FOR DETAILS:1981 Lancia Beta Zagato

1981 Lancia Zagato Targa Convertible. Unsually excellent condition exterior, interior and mechanically. I purchased the car from the original owner about 5 years ago and have put on less than 2000 miles. Always garaged either by me or previous owner. Have all receipts, owners manual, repair manual, window sticker.

Exterior: Sporty, original Rosso exterior. No accidents, no dents. Rubber bumpers are clean and don't sag over front turn signals. Paint is original, shiny and presents extremely well. Hairline cracks around gas cap- but not chipped. Chrome is clean and not pitted. Glass is clean and not scratched. Targa top fits tightly and is not cracked or chipped. Vinyl convertible top is original, in excellent condition and fits tight - plastic window is cloudy and I haven't tried to polish it. All latches for both the targa top and rear convertible top work perfectly. The original Lancia sticker is on the plastic rear window. I have the original convertible top boot, too. Wheels are in great condition with virtually no curb rash and original "L" center caps are not cracked. Tires all match and have plenty of tread. Rear taillights are clear and not cracked. Rear emblems are original. No missing parts or trim. No rust other than very small, area on the rocker panel right behind the rear wheels (see photos) otherwise absolutely rust free. Overall, the exterior presents beautifully.

Interior: Black leather. Very, very clean with the only issue being the seams coming apart and some color wear on the driver's seat which is easily repaired. Other than that, the upholstery is clean and not ripped, the door panels are clean and, again, not ripped or torn. Everything works - intermittent wipers, A/C blows cold and ventilation system ie: fan, defrost, heat - works perfectly. AM/FM stereo cassette is original and works great as well as the electric antenna. All gauges work, though fuel gage bounces around when 1/2 full. Power windows work, but occasionally blow fuses (hand crank is visible in photos). Carpet is perfect original and has drivers side carpeted mat. Digital clock works. All interior lights and dash lights work. Rubber gaskets around doors are pliant and no leaks at all. Door jambs are clean and no rust. No missing parts or trim.

Mechanical: Drives great. Timing belt was replaced by previous owner. I had a center muffler custom made when I bought the car. Rear muffler is fine. New battery. Brakes, suspension, work fine. Transmission shifts cleanly (as clean as a FWD car can) and doesn't grind in any gear. Steering has great feedback and no issues there. Engine is well maintained and fuel injection system works fine. Check out the photos to see the clean engine compartment. Clear plastic fuse box cover is cracked, but still there. New radiator fan switch installed within the last two years and that works fine. Trunk is perfect with original spare wheel, jack, tool kit and spotless carpeting. I have a made to order California Car cover as well.

This Lancia Zagato is a unique and extremely fun car to drive especially with the targa roof off and the rear top down. You've got room for kids in the backseat and the trunk has decent space. There were 2400 Zagatos imported to the US between 1979 and 1982. The 81's and 82's had fuel injection and slightly increased horsepower. If you are familiar with this model and Betas in general, most survivors are in poor condition cosmetically and mechanically. I'm selling because I have several cars and my storage situation is in limbo. Please give me a call with any questions or if you would like additional photos. Josh - 617-510-0338.

Listing locally as well. Buyer arranges pickup and shipping. Payment by Cashier's Check.

On Aug-05-13 at 09:44:29 PDT, seller added the following information: Took the Lancia out for a few test drives this weekend and the engine is stumbling at low revs. Since the car had been in storage for awhile could be due to stale gas and/or the fuel injection system. Please call with any questions about the drivability. 617-510-0338.

For spending at least the last five years of its live in New England, it’s amazing the tin worm hasn’t set in more on the bodywork. This is also an original car, which makes it stand out from the crowd of refurbished Betas that still exist. It’s rare that you see a Lancia on US roads, let alone a Beta. Less than 3,000 of these Zagatos were ever brought to these shores and fewer still are on the road. This red targa offers the chance to amaze and astound at your next Italian car meet up or car show. If the mechanical issues are not too involved, $5,000 to $7,000 would be a realistic range for this example.

Next up, we have the Zagato’s long-roofed sibling, the HPE, or High Performance Estate. Few automakers have had a crack at the shooting brake model over the years, but Lancia, ever daring, decided to have a go in the 1970s. Offering a bit more practicality to the Beta formula, there were fewer than 1,000 of these two-door estates brought to the US. This HPE for sale in North Carolina is a little more rough around the edges than the Zagato above, but is complete and a prime candidate for a bit of a refresh if one desires.

Year: 1977
Model: Beta HPE
Engine: 2.0 liter inline-4
Transmission: 5-speed manual
Mileage: 33,800 mi
Price: No reserve auction, starting bid $4,500

CLICK FOR DETAILS:1977 Lancia Beta HPE

Buyer to pay all shipping costs. Can be picked up at my location.

1977 Lancia Beta HPE in very good original condition. One of only a few survivors to be found. I have owned it for over 2 years and have really enjoyed driving it. I have owned a Coupe and a Berlinas and can say the HPE is the more desirable and fun to drive. Even today it appears stylish in design. A real eye catcher. I had the timing belt and bearing replaced as well as a new fuel pump. The engine runs very strong and does not smoke or use oil. AC is cold and transmission and clutch work flawlessly. It has less than 34000 miles and retains the original paint which needs a good buffing but is presentable as is. There are several small dings and some scratches which have been painted over poorly. Also, surface rust was removed from pillar on drivers side and repainted along with left front fender. The car has never been wrecked just some small dings. I have found no rust to speak of other than some surface spots.

Interior is original leather and looks very good. Only one small wear spot on drivers seat. The car was in storage for over 16 years thus the low miles and condition. With new paint and head liner the car would show well. It does leak around the windshield if driven in rain. I purchased it to drive and have enjoyed it. Due to medical problems I can no longer drive it without pain. If you are reading this I do not need to tell you how rare the HPE is. There were only just over 400 imported to the US. Has clean North Carolina title. Email me with any questions. Car is for sale locally and I reserve the right to end auction early.

I looked for an HPE for five years before I found this one. When was the last time you saw an HPE in this quality, original condition for sale? Includes original shop manual. Buyer to pay all shipping costs. I will assist in loading. No international buyers. Will ship to US buyers only. $500.00 deposit required in 24 hours of end of sale. Balance to be paid in three days or less.

While they are rare, at $4,500, we may be close to the maximum value of an HPE in this condition. It seems this one is mechanically sound and while it wears the original paint, a respray wouldn’t hurt the appearance, along with some refreshed trim, if you could source such parts. For someone seeking Italian flair with practicality, there are few choices out there if you are stateside. With a little bit of time, effort and money, this could certainly be made into one sweet looking HPE.

-Paul

Lancia, Modern Classic

1985 Lancia Beta HPE VX

April 5, 2013 Graham

The Beta gets a bad rap as the car that gave Lancia a great headache in the late 1970s and early 1980s, and the catalyst behind the company's exit from the UK market in the early 1990s. What has become the butt of jokes in certain automotive circles spawned a very curious model was spawned: the HPE, or High Performance Estate. Based on the longer wheelbase of the Berlina, this two-door shooting break appeared three years after the Berlina and Coupe arrived on the scene. Towards the end of the production run, the HPE was offered in VX trim, which included the supercharged, 2.0 liter engine that produced 133 horsepower. These VX Betas are almost extinct from the scene these days, but this HPE VX for sale in the Netherlands is bound to have Lancia (and estate) enthusiasts drooling.

1985 Lancia Beta HPE VX

HPE Volumex in excellent condition. In my posession since 2001. Engine and suspension overhaul 2007. Well maintained, carefully restored. Complete maintenance file available. Ready for daily use, a pleasure to drive. Lack of space forces sale. Car can be seen and tried in Hilversum, Holland.

At a tad over $8,800 USD, this is one pricey Beta. Usually, if you can find a Beta in similar condition in the US, you'd probably wind up paying around $5,000 to $6,000 at the high end. You certainly wouldn't be likely to come across a VX model, however. A few years ago, Audi showed a TT Shooting Break concept at the Tokyo Motor Show. I've always wondered why this vehicle configuration isn't more popular, because, for a single guy like me, having a two door performance car with a bit of increased practicality is just what the doctor ordered.

-Paul

Lancia

1979 Lancia Beta Zagato

March 1, 2013 Graham

The Beta Zagato, known as the Spider outside of the US, was Lancia's last ditch attempt at trying to salvage what little market share they had left stateside. Featuring a targa top with a fold down rear roof section, these were actually designed by Pininfarina, yet built by the coachbuilder whose name the car bore. You can find a few of these Beta Zagatos left, but many are rust buckets and specimens that would take the most ardent Lancia enthusiast to resurrect. This car for sale in California, however, has benefitted from some recent refurbishment and is ready to be enjoyed by the next owner.

1979 Lancia Beta Zagato

Springtime is near and summer around the corner. This wonderful Lancia Zagato Convertible is ready to be enjoyed! For a smart collector/enthusiast who wants to drive a head turning, unique, fun, exotic Italian roadster without breaking the bank, THIS IS YOUR CAR. These cars are scarce in this kind of condition but as only the second owner I got the car from a very well to do owner who drove it sparingly, maintained it beautifully, and kept the mileage low. I can detect no accident damage ever, and the car has absolutely no rust that I can find or detect which is to be expected be a California Car from new.

In the past year I took a very good car and made it excellent by taking care of three major areas that always need attention on older Zagatos: First, I completely redid the interior upholstery to an exact match of the original shapes and patterns. See the photos. Everything you see on the seats is new front and back, and looks exactly like it came fom the factory however in a much more durable ambla type material that looks and feels like the fragile Italian leather used original, but will not shrink and crack while you enjoy top down motoring. Speaking of top, the wonderful targa convertible top and rear window are brand new just 5 months ago also, and the car comes with a perfect condition boot cover for when the top is down. Also inside there was only one hairline crack in the original dash top, however a very high quality molded replacement has been professionally fitted and is undetectable from a new dash which is what it looks like.

The rest of the dashboard and instrumentation is original and working. The clock keeps perfect time, the lighter works to charge the cell phone (or light a Gitane....if you must -this car has never been smoked in!) and the factory original radio works however I never use it and will find the removable antennae mast before delivery. The power windows both work, however characteristically slow as they all are. The heating and a/c system is intact and working, although it may need a charge as I dont use it but the compressor kicks in and all things work and blow as they should. Most of these systems have been removed, but that really hurts the character of the car as a possible tourer.The condition inside is that of more like a one or two year old car. I took the floor mats out for the photos just to show the factory carpet has no wear at all. Likewise the trunk looks perfect. (The tire will be back on the apare wheel on delivery. All four tires are a brand new set in the correct size as well.

Mechanically the car is a joy and currently needs nothing I know of. I just did the full power steering rack replacement with a newly rebuilt unit that has a lifetime warranty and it is dry and perfect. The car drives great with a smooth gearbox in all five speeds, and amazing brakes and a silky smooth engine that is economical and perky. Why sell it now that it is so nice? I have just finished my long 3 year body off Triumph TR250 restoration and it will do the driving duty this summer as I try to finish a Lancia Fulvia and my E type. I have really enjoyed the Zagato roadster but I want it to be used and enjoyed now that I have finished another roadster. Please ask all questions and be amazed at the very reasonable reserve that will be met soon if anyone out there knows a bargain. This is a good car, without the nagging achilles heels of others. You can sometimes find these cheap, but you will have an unpleasant dog of a car needing thousands of dollars to get it to where this one is, if it can be gotten there. You see most of these cars are rusty, and its a dedicated enthusiast that wants to tackle that. Dont get e rusty Lancia. Please start with a good car. This one lets you start enjoyiong it right away and it will be a super bargain for someone. these are well supported by parts specialists and people are really discovering Lancia. grab this one, and you will enjoy it or years to come as they go up in value. Ask any and all questions. Cheers- Bob.

Betas have a bit of a notorious reputation for being cars that rust and mechanically troublesome. Noted automotive journalist Jeremy Clarkson himself referred to this car as a problem child, but then again, no one had tried to drive a Beta Coupe across the spine of Africa before. Last year, a documented Beta Zagato owned by the Fiat Lancia Club president brought $6,400. An example like this will probably bring a little bit less; perhaps somewhere in the $4,000 to $5,000 range.

-Paul

Lancia, Modern Classic

1984 Lancia Beta 2.0 Volumex Coupe

January 27, 2013 Graham 2 Comments

Does a standard Lancia Beta Coupe seem a bit too ordinary or reliable for your tastes? Knowing how ridiculous that statement sounds, it might seem a bit more reasonable upon glancing at this late model Beta 2.0 Volumex. Toward the end of the Beta's life, Lancia decided to add a Roots type supercharger into the mix for better performance. Capable of producing 135 bhp and the expected increase in torque over the normally aspirated 2.0 liter engine, the VX as it was known differed from its lesser engined siblings by way of a hood bulge and front and rear spoilers. Stiffer suspension was also a part of the package. Just under 1,300 VX Coupes were made; this rare Beta is on offer in Italy about 30 miles south of Milan.

1984 Lancia Beta 2.0 Volumex Coupe

Car is in excellent condition. Very rare, engine 2.0 liter supercharged. For any information please contact: lorenzo.blitto@libero.it. Thanks

A regular Beta Coupe will run you anywhere from $3,000 to $6,000 on average, with only the most exceptional, museum quality examples reaching towards the upper part of that range. This Volumex is on offer at $11,449. It appears this has 53,000 km (~ 33,000 mi) on the clock, not a surprise given the nice presentation. But over $10,000 for an almost 30 year old Beta? Given the car's reputation, I doubt it will bring those kind of numbers. Realistically, we might be looking at $7,000 to $8,000 at the maximum for this car.

-Paul

Lancia

1978 Lancia Beta 1800 Coupe

December 30, 2012 Graham 1 Comment

The Lancia Beta was the car that, to this day, still evokes shudders with car enthusiasts. Known for their propensity to rust at a rapid rate, these cars did the company no favors in the sales race. From 1975 to 1982, the Beta was the mainstay of the US lineup, but was withdrawn from the market along with Fiat due to poor sales. A little over a decade later, Lancia would withdraw from the UK market as well, again due to lagging sales. Few Betas exist here in the US to this day. Most of those you see are the later Zagato open roofed variants. This 1800 Coupe for sale in New York is a bit tatty but is all there and would make for an inexpensive

1978 Lancia Beta 1800 Coupe

Here you have a great little piece of Italian motoring history. The Beta 1800 coupe is just a blast to drive. This car has great bones and with a little TLC will be great. You will see in the pictures and video that overall in very good condition. Runs great, drives great, stops great. The car has a new timing belt, full tune up, new valve cover gasket, complete rebuilt carburetor and new rear motor mount.

Some of the things that need attention. The clutch is working but needs to be replaced or we think pressure plate is bad. Car shifts fine but clunks hard when releasing the clutch. Someone looked at it and said a spring on pressure plate is missing. Front motor mount needs to be replaced and then the things you see with interior and body. You will see the only spot of major rust / hole is in front of the driver rear wheel and not near suspenion, see pictures. Floor pans are clean and pictures show undercoat peeling not rust. AC – not working , it might need to be charged. Heat works great, power windows, tilt steering, sunroof, 2 extra aluminum wheels, power steering.

With a starting bid of $1,000, the seller is being realistic to get this car its fair share of interest. I'd say $3,000 to $4,000 might be the most that we see, but if I was bidding, I would not go much beyond $3,000 given the issues that need to be addressed. Still, for those handy with a wrench and some time on their hands, this could be the perfect project for the budding Italian car enthusiast for 2013.

-Paul

Lancia

1977 Lancia Scorpion

November 30, 2012 Graham

Sold but for two years, the Scorpion was easily forgettable during Lancia's brief appearance in the US market. This was a neat mid-engined car with a twin cam, 1.8 liter four cylinder engine and striking good looks by Pininfarina. This example is for sale in California has had but two owners and has recently been used as a daily driver, if you could imagine that.

1977 Lancia Scorpion

This listing is for a 1977 Lancia Scorpion. I'm the second owner. I purchased from the original owner in Northern California. I owned this car for nine years and it has been my daily driver since. When I purchased this vehicle it had 95,353 miles and started back to zero. I did all the work with the exception of the sunroof. Following is the work done:

IN THE PAST MONTH: Four new Kuhmo Solus tires, 185/70-13 with wheel alignment. New custom sunroof with canvas material, the same used in Porsches and Mercedes. New distributor cap, rotor and magnetic pick-up and Bosch Platinum spark plugs.

LAST TWO YEARS: New clutch, pressure plate, throwout bearing, pilot bearing and rear main seal. Rebuilt starter, alternator and new solid state voltage regulator. Complete valve job that includes: new valve stems, new valve guides and head pressure tested. Water pump and timing belt. Radiator complete honeycomb core redone.

AT THE TIME OF PURCHASE: Replaced windshield with Pilkington glass with professional installation and rubber seal around.

IMPROVEMENTS: Replaced old point and condenser distributor with an electronic one from later Lancia model. Old plastic coolant reservoir replaced with stainless steel. Spare tire holder replaced with a made support that gives better hold and easy access for maintenance.

NOTICE: All smog equipment has been removed from vehicle and cosmetically cover all orifices. That makes the car perform exceptionally well. Top speed 110 mph and I have two speeding tickets to prove it. This car was not originally destined to run with all this smog equipment. It makes it a lame duck. The car has current California registration until November 2013.

This looks to be a very well kept Scorpion and with a lengthy history on the west coast, it stands a chance that this could be one of the more rust free vintage Lancias you could find roaming American roads these days. Scorpions are surprisingly affordable and have been likened to bargain Ferraris on more than one occasion. Anywhere between $5,000 to $10,000 will net you a good one. I'd suspect this example, due to the mileage, will wind up somewhere around the $6,000 to $7,000 mark.

-Paul