Lancia

Lancia, a name synonymous with innovation and, at times, frustrating complexity, holds a unique place in automotive history. Founded in 1906, the Italian marque quickly established itself as a pioneer, introducing monocoque construction and independent suspension long before rivals. Their pre-war models, like the Lambda, were engineering marvels.

Post-war, Lancia continued to push boundaries with front-wheel drive and advanced engines, culminating in rally dominance with the Stratos and Delta. However, financial woes and questionable management decisions plagued the brand. While offering distinctive designs and driver-focused experiences, Lancia's reliability and build quality often lagged, contributing to its eventual decline. Today, the brand's legacy remains, a testament to its ambition and a cautionary tale of the challenges of automotive survival.