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The 2003 Lancia Fulvia Coupe Concept pays homage to one of Lancia's classic coupes, capturing its iconic design while offering a modern twist. Created by the Centro Stile Lancia under Flavio Manzoni, this concept car replicates many elements from the original Fulvia, making it easily recognizable as a descendant of the celebrated model.
Built on the chassis of the Barchetta, the Fulvia Coupe is powered by a modified 1800cc 16-valve DOHC engine that produces 140 horsepower. It features familiar mechanical components, including all-disc brakes, ABS, and MacPherson strut front suspension paired with independent rear suspension. The body is crafted from aluminum, and the interior combines wood, leather, and aluminum in a design that reflects the classic aesthetics of the original Fulvia Coupe.
The concept is a stylish reincarnation of the 1970s coupe, utilizing the platform of the modern compact Lancia Ypsilon. It retains a 4-cylinder engine with 140 horsepower and is close to being ready for production. The design was a collaboration between Lancia’s Centro Stile and the Turin firm Carcerano, which focused on refining the vehicle’s surface model.
The original Fulvia was notable for its innovative features when it launched in the early 1960s, including front-wheel drive and all-disc brakes. It became a significant player in motorsport, particularly after the coupe version was introduced in 1965, which later won the World Rally Championship in 1972.
The Fulvia Coupe Concept boasts an appealing design, maintaining a distinct profile while integrating modern elements. Its exterior features nods to the rally-winning heritage, like the sleek silhouette and distinctive rear light shape. The concept represents a blend of classic inspiration and contemporary design language, with a direct visual relationship to the Lancia Thesis sedan.
Inside, the Fulvia Coupe fuses retro and modern styles, featuring a traditional dashboard layout and steering wheel alongside a contemporary multimedia system. The combination creates a cozy and modern atmosphere, reflective of Lancia’s storied past while also appealing to today’s drivers.
Although the Fulvia Coupe was a fully functional concept, its production seemed unlikely due to Lancia’s struggles in the market during the late 90s and early 2000s. As Chrysler's influence grew, Lancia shifted focus to mass-market models, leaving niche cars like the Fulvia on the sidelines. While rumors of a new Fulvia surfaced in 2008, the concept remains a symbol of Lancia's commitment to its heritage and aspirations for the future.
