Given its current model range, it is hard to comprehend that Lancia was once a powerhouse in world rallying. Today, the company is a shadow of its former self, but success in the East African Safari prompted the company to release the Fulvia Coupe 3 Safari Edition. Only 900 of these classics left the line, and this 1975 example is one of them. It presents extremely well and has avoided the rust issues that often plague these classics. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder T.J. for spotting this beauty for sale, as it needs a new home to settle an estate. The Lancia is listed here on Craigslist in Tehachapi, California. It could be yours for $27,500.

Lancia introduced the Fulvia badge in 1963, with the Coupe variant appearing in 1965. It proved a hardy beast, remaining on sale until 1976. This 1975 example is a Safari Edition, produced between 1974 and 1976. Only 900 of these left the factory, with the seller confirming that this is number 872. It spent much of its life in Portugal before the late owner imported it into North America. The Safari Edition was a cosmetic package that eliminated the bumpers and brought a few exterior trim changes. This car features period-correct driving lights and rolls on a beautiful set of Cromodora alloy wheels. Lancia offered buyers a choice of twelve paint shades in 1975, with this car clad in dazzling Rosso Corsa. It shines impressively, with no evidence of paint or panel shortcomings. Rust is often a significant problem with any vehicle wearing a Lancia badge, and the Fulvia was no exception. This car’s exterior looks clean, and the underside shots appear to reveal nothing but a few areas of dry surface corrosion. However, I would prioritize treating these areas to prevent deterioration, as that could prevent future heartache. The trim is in good condition, and the glass is clear.

The roll call is impressive, with Lancia’s Stratos, 037, and the Delta all achieving considerable rallying success. The Delta, in its various forms, remains the most successful badge in the World Rally Championship’s history, but the Fulvia was the car that started it all. To call it a giant-killer wouldn’t be an understatement. Its narrow-angle V4 engine produced relatively modest power, but since the tiny Fulvia weighed less than 2,100 lbs, it proved nimble and capable of humbling more illustrious contenders. This 1975 Safari Edition features a 1.3-liter four, which sends 88hp to the front wheels via a five-speed manual transaxle. Outright performance wasn’t the aim of the exercise when these cars were produced, but they come into their own when pointed at a stretch of twisting road. While not explicitly stated, it appears that this Fulvia is a turnkey proposition.

Lancia sought to capture the Fulvia’s rallying spirit with the introduction of the Safari Edition. Therefore, weight reduction was a significant focus. Eliminating the bumpers was a starting point, although the interior featured no luxury touches beyond a splash of woodgrain on the dash. Items like air conditioning, power windows, and other creature comforts had “Not Available” written boldly beside them on the Order Form, although every car received a numbered Dash Plaque. This car’s original cloth seatcovers have made way for Black leatherette, and I believe that the wheel may be a later addition. Otherwise, it is as it left the factory, and in surprisingly good condition. There is no evidence of crumbling plastic or UV damage, and no signs of abuse. The term “survivor-grade” appears to be appropriate.

Vehicle manufacturers are facing significant challenges amid the rise of the Asian car industry. Tesla has been overtaken as the largest producer of electric cars for the first time since its inception, and the situation may only get more challenging. Stellantis, Lancia’s parent company, is no exception, and there will come a time when economic rationalization will claim scalps. The harsh reality is that Lancia’s production has fallen by around 90% since 1990, and the company struggled to sell 32,000 vehicles in 2024. The indications are that 2025 was no better, and although the final figures haven’t yet emerged, it appears that the total may be as low as 13,000. I dislike being a prophet of doom, but the situation seems unsustainable. If that proves true, preserving classics like this 1975 Fulvia Coupe 3 Safari Edition may be critical if future generations are to appreciate what has been lost. The seller’s price looks realistic, and if a rare Italian classic is on your Wish List, could this Safari Edition be a contender?