Back in 1961, Lancia introduced their first front-wheel-drive vehicle under the nameplate of Flavia. This model represented the basis of the new Fulvia which was unveiled in 1963.
While within the first two years of production the Fulvia was equipped with less performant engines (first a 59 hp 1.1-liter and later a 71hp unit), it was in 1965 when the definitive model arrived.
Under the hood, the 1965 Fulvia featured a 1.2-liter engine that developed 80 hp. To improve agility, the Fulvia’s doors, the trunk lid, and the hood were made of aluminum, thus the car’s weight was reduced.
The 1965 Fulvia Coupe had a stylish and aerodynamic design, the work of the Italian designer Pietro Castagnero and offered seating for four.
Given the fact that the Fulvia’s chassis could handle even more power, that led to the introduction of the more powerful edition, HF.
Designed for competition, the HF-badged Fulvias enjoyed great success in international rallying, winning most of the races at its class.
The HF version was available with 3 engine choices, 1.2-liter, 1.3-liter, and 1.6-liter units. Their design was different from the regular Fulvia’s: red body, yellow or blue center stripes, and less exposed bumpers.
In 1971 when Lancia was acquired by Fiat, the Lancia Series II Fulvia was released.