Lancia Stratos unveiled

The first shots of the Lancia Stratos have been revealed to car fans, after the 1970's throwback was spotted cruising in Italy.

The Stratos is a remake of a cult classic supercar and to look at, it isn't vastly different from its older sibling. With strong lines and similar dimensions, the new model also uses a Ferrari engine. Its not more of the same however, as the new Stratos is armed with a rear diffuser and aerodynamic front spoiler providing a modern aesthetic to the vintage chic car.

Designed by Jason Castriota at Pininfarina, the car has been in development for over two years and fails to disappoint in terms of strength and capability. The 4.3 litre V8 Ferrari F430 Scuderia engine produces 503 bhp and can reach a top speed of 224 mph according to AutoEvolution.

Envisaged as a one-of-a-kind concept model for businessman Michael Stoscheck, the Stratos impressed testers on Fiat's test track in Balocco, Italy, making it likely that limited production could commence. AutoExpress reports that Stoscheck has given his blessing to Pininfarina for the assembly of around 25 new models, which could go on sale as early as 2013.

Who knows, the Stratos could even be officially revealed to the public at the Paris Auto Show later this year. Whilst prices are likely to be high, the Lancia badge and its higher power-to-weight ratio than the Scuderia, Ferrari owners could be prompted to announce: ''I will sell my Ferrari for an exclusive Stratos.''

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