With the Thema, Lancia revived the tradition of building large travel limousines that it had broken with the Aurelia and the Flaminia in the postwar period. The Thema was introduced in 1982 and positioned as a premium mid-size vehicle; this was a car segment, in which the Italian carmakers did not have much to offer until then. Furthermore, a collaboration between different manufacturers started with the Thema: It had the same identical chassis as the Saab 9000 and the Fiat Chroma. This concept of the Lancia flagship car was superior to its competitors: Front wheel drive, transversely mounted engine, independent suspension of all four wheels. The bodywork created by Giorgetto Giugiaro is classic; the drag coefficient is only 0.32 Cd. In September 1984, the model range of the Thema was extended with the 8.32, for which Ferrari had done a considerable amount of work. However, strictly speaking, the Thema 8.32 (8 cylinders / 32 valves) was not a sports car. Its appearance did not reveal its sportiness. The only differences between this model and the other Thema’s were its radiator, the rims in Ferrari design, a narrow decorative strip and a rear spoiler, which was flush with the boot lid. It could be electrically raised by means of a turning knob. The V8 Lancia by Ferrari became an incomparable automobile thanks to its eight-cylinder V engine with a cylinder angle of 90 degrees. This engine was taken from the Ferrari 308 and the Mondial, where it is also transversely mounted. As it is typical for Lancia, this Lancia 8.32 has high-quality full options including a sliding roof and an extended posh “Poltrona Frau” leather upholstery. The exclusivity continues with the complete instrumentation, which is placed inside the finest burl wood. This vehicle is the sought-after 2nd series model with catalytic converter. Only 1,517 copies of this particular series were manufactured, and not many of those have survived until today. This car is the ultimate wolf in sheep’s clothing. Pure understatement! But it is a saloon with a very sporty heart and an exciting history. The body, the chassis, the engine and the gearbox are impeccable. So is the interior. Since the car was deregistered and has been standing still for the last 5 years, it is recommended to replace the timing belt before recommissioning. Complete service booklet and operating instructions available. It is recommended and welcome that you view the vehicle before placing a bid. The car is located in Cologne, Germany and can be viewed on weekdays.