Lancia Prisma

At the end of 1982 Lancia launched the Prisma model. This four-door saloon was positioned between the Beta Trevi saloon and the Delta hatchback, completing a program of exclusive cars in every size. It was the second Giugiaro designed model and fitted within the Delta concept. The carosseria was given more new details than just an addition of the boot. The front was also had a remodelling to create a better visual balance.
	The Prisma was another result of modern italian design at Turin-based Ital Design's concepts of La Linea Italia. Around 1984 a restyling was carried out, visually closing in to the newly arrived Thema, resulting in a more robust look.
Since the Prisma was intended to be more a family saloon, it received only the less sporty part of the Delta line of engines. Top engine was the 1,6 i.e. with 108 HP. There was even a diesel engine added, illustrating its civilised targeted marketsegment.
Production took place in Lancia's modernised plant at Chivasso. A very necessary step toward an improved building quality, living up to a more European standard. (Lancia once even accused other constructors of excessive build quality, claiming that Lancia's usual standards were quite sufficient.)
	A top model, the 4WD, was created following the traces of the Delta Integrale. It was driven by a Fergusson four wheel drive. The engine was borrowed from the Thema. This 2 litre fuel injected 115 HP powerplant just fitted the enginebay.
Even Gianni Agnelli, FIAT's topman, owned a Prisma, be it a special one. This one was a special, built by Lancia and only two of them were made. The other one was lost in a testing accident. It has an enriched interior, a 2 litre turbo engine and all wheel drive. It is said to be an Integrale drive, rather than the less sophisticated of the normal 4WD. Engine power rose to 174 bhp.
	Jackie Ickx tested the 4WD in proper snowy conditions in the Val de Susa and found it a most pleasing experience. Even the usual windnoise, which Fiat garages stated being normal, had lowered -much to his appreciation-. After surprising some foresters at a snow-covered, plus 2000 m pass the 4WD was given al the credits as a remarkable roadcar.
The Prisma's popularity in Italy took very un-Lancia proportions, making it the then best sold Lancia ever. (My local dealer still remembers times selling some 10 Lancias a year!) Some special models, like the Monte Carlo series, reached the market in small numbers. In 1989 the last Prisma rolled of the productionline, making place for the Dedra model.
	Driving a Prisma in the Netherlands used to be something of an exclusivity... in Turin I found it to be more of a camouflage. It even reached Italy's hectic citystreets in fair numbers as a taxi.