Cars with history: Lancia Thema 8.32 Ferrari

In 1984, under Lancia, a slightly more radical version of its executive saloon, the Thema, appeared. This version, named Thema 8.32, had a surprise under its bonnet: a 315 CV V8 engine of Ferrari origin.

The 8.32 numbers referred to its V8 engine and its 32 valves, sourced from the engine of the Ferrari 308. The performance of the Thema 8.32 was astonishing, as it reached a top speed of 234 km/h and went from 0-100 in 6 seconds. Only 3,500 units of this version were sold.

It also gained a bad reputation after several accidents. In particular, a Spanish basketball player (Fernando Martin) died in an accident on the M-30 when he left the road in his Thema 8.32, because the Thema 8.32 was difficult to control without experience, given the displacement and size of the car.

However, the vehicle was formidable. It was designed by Giorgetto Giugiaro, and the model came with every detail and equipment that, at the time, already included electric air conditioning and electronically controlled suspension. In addition to its famous electric spoiler, which deployed above 120 km/h. Not to mention the leather interior upholstery and the attention to detail.

Here is a promotional video from the era, which sums up very well the hidden details of this gem of motoring, which in many cases has gone unnoticed. You can still find one second-hand right now, but maintaining a Thema 8.32 is very expensive.