Hot Wheels announced a new release that is coming in 2025 at the Car Culture Series, the Lancia Stratos Zero. So let’s talk about the car!
The Lancia Stratos Zero is a groundbreaking concept car that was unveiled at the 1970 Turin Motor Show and defined the wedge-shaped aesthetic of the 1970’s. Designed by Marcello Gandini of the Bertone design studio, it is renowned for its striking wedge-shaped silhouette and futuristic aesthetics.
Lancia Stratos Zero: Design and Features
- Futuristic Aesthetics: The Stratos Zero features a low, aggressive profile and an angular design, which was ahead of its time. Its design is characterized by sharp lines and a minimalistic approach. This wedge shape was a precursor to the design language that would later be popularized by cars like the Lamborghini Countach.
- Innovative Doors: The car features unique scissor doors that open upward, adding to its dramatic look and enhancing accessibility.
- Material Use: The body is made from lightweight fiberglass, which contributes to its overall low weight, enhancing performance.
- Advanced Technology: For its time, the Stratos Zero was equipped with advanced features, including a low-mounted center of gravity for improved handling and a rear-mounted engine for optimal weight distribution.
Lancia Stratos Zero: Technical Specifications
- Engine: The car is powered by a mid-mounted 1.6-liter V4 engine derived from the Lancia Fulvia, producing around 115 horsepower.
- Performance: With its lightweight design, the Stratos Zero is capable of impressive acceleration and agility, making it a marvel of engineering.
- Dimensions: Standing at an impressive height of 85 cm, it measures 3.58 m in length and 1.7 m in width.
Impact
The Stratos Zero was never intended for production, but it served as a blueprint for the subsequent Lancia Stratos, a successful rally car that dominated the World Rally Championship in the 1970s. The production Stratos retained much of the original concept’s aggressive styling, though it was toned down slightly for road use.
In 1988, the Lancia Stratos Zero appeared in the movie “Moonwalker,” starring Michael Jackson. In the “Smooth Criminal” segment, Michael’s character is surrounded by gangsters, then transforms into a bulletproof Lancia Stratos Zero to make his escape.
Legacy
The model has influenced automotive design and is often cited as a precursor to modern supercars. Its unique look continues to inspire designers today.
The Stratos Zero was never mass-produced and remains a one-off prototype, making it highly sought after by collectors and automotive enthusiasts.
The Lancia Stratos Zero stands as a testament to innovative design and engineering in the automotive world. Its legacy endures not just in the realm of motorsport, but also in the hearts of car enthusiasts who appreciate its revolutionary approach to car design.
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