The Last of Its Kind
Creative studio INK has added a new chapter to their Brutal Beasts series with the release of ‘The Last of Its Kind,’ celebrating the iconic Lancia Rally 037. This series delves into the thrilling and perilous era of Group B rallying, which saw some of the most daring and dangerous racing cars ever created.
Group B rallying, introduced in 1982, revolutionised car design by allowing unprecedented freedom, resulting in formidable machines that pushed the boundaries of performance and safety. However, the series was abruptly banned following the tragic deaths of Henri Toivonen and his co-driver Sergio Cresto in 1986.
The Audi Quattro S1 E2 was the first car to achieve victory under the Group B regulations, utilising innovative four-wheel-drive technology. In contrast, Lancia, with limited preparation time for the 1983 season, opted for a different approach with the 037. They chose rear-wheel-drive, relying on existing components and lightweight materials. This decision paid off when the Lancia 037 won the 1983 Monte Carlo Rally and narrowly clinched the World Championship title that year, a mere two points ahead of Audi.
Despite its success, the 037 was soon outpaced by the advancing four-wheel-drive technology and was retired after the 1985 season. Nonetheless, it remains celebrated as the last two-wheel-drive car to win the WRC.
INK’s homage to the Lancia 037 is presented in striking detail. Recreated in CGI with meticulous precision, the artwork showcases the car’s intricate design, adhering to INK’s minimalistic style. ‘The Last of Its Kind’ by INK not only commemorates the Lancia 037 but also celebrates the golden era of rallying, paying tribute to the bold spirit and groundbreaking innovation of Group B.
© Digital imagery by INK