Lancia Beta History

Launched in 1972 under Fiat ownership, the Beta was Lancia's attempt at a modern, volume front-wheel-drive family car. It was offered in an unusually wide range of body styles: a conventional saloon (berlina), a fastback coupé, a Pininfarina-designed spider, and the unusual HPE (High Performance Estate) — a practical but sporting hatchback estate.

The Beta Montecarlo (1975–1981), a separate mid-engine sports car sharing the name, should not be confused with the mainstream Beta. All mainstream Beta production ended in 1984. Serious corrosion in the front strut towers — particularly in UK-market cars — caused significant warranty and reputational damage in export markets, accelerating Lancia's withdrawal from several countries.