The thunderous echoes of Group A Rally racing in the '90s marked a pivotal era post the tumultuous end of Group B. Emerging as its regulated successor, the '90s witnessed a transformative shift from the unchecked power of Group B to a more structured and production-oriented approach.

The demise of Group B in the mid-'80s, driven by safety concerns and escalating speeds, paved the way for Group A regulations. Stringent rules mandated production-based cars and limited modifications, fostering fair competition and bringing rally racing closer to fans by featuring cars that closely resembled their road-legal counterparts.

Throughout the '90s, automotive titans like Subaru, Mitsubishi, and Ford engaged in fierce battles. These machines, while maintaining a semblance of their production counterparts, underwent meticulous tuning for the demanding rally stages. However, there was one who stood above all during the early years of Group A, and that was Lancia with their almighty Delta Integrale.

The Delta Integrale, a seasoned contender in the world of rally racing, had already etched its name in history during the Group B era, thanks to the monstrous Delta S4. Having secured championships in the years 1987, 1988, and 1989, the Delta S4 had rightfully earned its place as one of the most triumphant race cars of its time. Yet, the saga of Lancia's dominance continued seamlessly into the Group A era.

The shift in regulations to Group A brought about new homologation standards, necessitating manufacturers to produce a minimum number of cars for public sale, often set around 5,000 units for the Delta Integrale. This requirement bridged the gap between race cars and their road-legal counterparts, introducing a level of relatability and accessibility to the sport.

Out of this homologation mandate emerged the Lancia Delta Integrale, a road-going turbocharged variant born from the unassuming Delta hatchback. Initially featuring an 8-valve engine, the Integrale later evolved to house the iconic 16-valve powerhouse. This not only provided a high-potential platform for the racing variant of the Integrale but also resulted in one of the most exciting and engaging road cars ever made with proper racing pedigree. The charismatic Lancia Delta Integrale clinched World Rally Championship victories from 1987 to 1992, totalling 46 wins across its four variants, and achieved a record-setting six consecutive manufacturers' titles that stands to this day.

This specific 1990 Lancia Delta Integrale 16V, residing in South Africa throughout its existence, boasts the quintessential Italian Red paint and proudly rests on the distinctive "Evo" wheels exclusive to the Delta Integrale Evoluzione. The factory interior exudes a nostalgic '90s vibe, adorned with grey alcantara upholstery complemented by the vibrant multicolored fabric that graced the seats of the 1990 models. It was then brought to Singapore in 2022 where it has been in a temperature and humidity-controlled environment.

Lancia Delta prices have been on a consistent upward trajectory in recent years, driven by a growing demand from enthusiasts seeking an immersive driving experience. The allure of navigating winding roads is perfectly embodied in this Rally-bred, homologation-special. Amidst the rising prices across all trims, the 16V stands out as the sweet spot – a harmonious blend where you can relish the driving pleasure while ensuring its enduring value as a revered cultural icon in the automotive world.

Lancia's Delta Integrale, a symbol of rally dominance, transcended its Group B success to clinch victories and manufacturers' titles in Group A. This legacy lives on in the 1990 Delta Integrale 16V, a captivating blend of racing pedigree and '90s nostalgia. As demand and prices rise, the 16V emerges as a timeless investment, embodying the essence of an engaging drive and cultural icon in the automotive realm.