History 1980s

Lancia Delta S4

Overview Specs Highlights Characteristics

Overview

Unveiled at the end of 1985, the Lancia Delta S4 was Lancia’s final entry into Group B — and one of the most extreme rally cars ever created. Beneath its boxy silhouette was a spaceframe chassis, four-wheel drive, and a ferocious twincharged engine combining both supercharging and turbocharging. The result was brutal low-end torque with explosive top-end power. In just a handful of WRC appearances, the S4 proved blisteringly fast, but its terrifying performance and tragic accident at the 1986 Tour de Corse also contributed to the end of Group B entirely.

Technical Specs & Innovations

The Delta S4 was a technological marvel, blending immediate throttle response with massive top-end boost. Its performance figures rivaled Formula 1 cars of the time, and its acceleration on gravel was nearly unmatched.

🏆 Competitive Highlights

  • 1985 RAC Rally: Henri Toivonen wins on debut, stunning the competition.
  • 1986 Rally Monte Carlo: Toivonen dominates in snowy conditions, showcasing the S4’s potential.
  • 1986 Podium Finishes: Regular top-three finishes throughout the season with Toivonen and Alén.

The Delta S4 was capable of beating any car on the grid, but tragedy struck at the 1986 Tour de Corse, when Henri Toivonen and co-driver Sergio Cresto perished in a crash — a moment that marked the beginning of the end for Group B.

Driving Characteristics

Violent, demanding, and unmatched in raw power — the Delta S4 was not for the faint of heart. It launched out of corners with savage grip and had so much acceleration that co-drivers often struggled to keep pace. Drivers had to manage turbo lag, sudden power surges, and minimal margin for error. Those who could tame it, like Toivonen, described it as thrilling yet terrifying — a machine always on the edge.

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