New Stratos Vs Kimera EVO37: Which Rally Icon Wins?

Two extraordinary machines channel the ferocious energy of 1980s Group B rally cars into contemporary supercars: the MAT New Stratos and the Kimera Automobili EVO37. These limited-production marvels honor the Lancia Stratos and Lancia 037, blending vintage aesthetics with modern engineering for unparalleled driving thrills. This in-depth analysis dives into their design philosophies, mechanical prowess, on-road dynamics, and ownership realities to determine which one reigns supreme.

Historical Roots: Echoes of Group B Glory

Group B era from 1982 to 1986 defined rally racing’s wildest chapter, with lightweight, powerful cars like the Lancia Stratos HF and Lancia Rally 037 dominating stages worldwide. The Stratos, with its iconic wedge shape and mid-engine layout, secured three consecutive World Rally Championships from 1974-1976. Its successor, the 037, clinched the 1983 manufacturers’ title using a supercharged four-cylinder engine.

The MAT New Stratos revives the Stratos legacy through a faithful yet evolved design, while the Kimera EVO37 reimagines the 037 as a street-legal monster. Both projects emerged from passionate Italian engineers determined to resurrect these icons without compromising on today’s safety and performance standards.

Design and Aerodynamics: Art Meets Function

MAT New Stratos Exterior: The New Stratos retains the original’s aggressive wedge profile, low-slung nose, and gaping air intakes, but updates them with carbon-fiber construction for a 25% weight reduction over steel-bodied predecessors. Measuring 4,181mm long, 1,971mm wide, and just 1,240mm tall, its compact footprint (wheelbase: 2,400mm) screams agility. Pop-up headlights and scissor doors preserve the drama, while active aerodynamic elements like a deployable rear wing optimize downforce at high speeds.

Kimera EVO37 Exterior: Drawing from the 037’s boxy yet curvaceous form, the EVO37 stretches to 4,055mm long and 1,905mm wide, with a mere 1,200mm height. Its carbon-fiber-reinforced steel monocoque, bolstered by tubular frames, supports flared arches accommodating massive 19-inch wheels and Brembo brakes. A massive integrated rear spoiler and wide rear track enhance stability, evoking the original’s rally stance but with sleeker lines for better airflow.

Both cars prioritize lightweight materials, but the EVO37 edges out in minimalism, tipping scales at under 1,100kg thanks to extensive carbon use.

Powertrains: Raw Power Unleashed

The New Stratos houses a mid-mounted 4.3-liter naturally aspirated V8 sourced from Ferrari Scuderia models, tuned for 533-550bhp at 8,200rpm and 383lb/ft torque at 3,750rpm. Paired with a six-speed manual or sequential automated gearbox and rear-wheel drive via limited-slip differential, it catapults to 100km/h in 3.3 seconds and tops 330km/h. Its cross-plane crankshaft delivers a symphonic exhaust note, free-revving to redline with linear power delivery.

Contrastingly, the EVO37 employs a 2.15-liter twin-charged (supercharged and turbocharged) inline-four, inspired by the Lancia Delta S4. This setup yields 498-505bhp at 7,000-7,250rpm and a staggering 443lb/ft torque across the rev range. Driving the rear wheels through a Dana Graziano six-speed sequential (or manual in some configs), it hits 100km/h in 3.0 seconds and 310km/h max. The supercharger eliminates turbo lag for instant response, while the turbo sustains top-end rush.

• New Stratos V8: Smooth, high-revving NA power; ideal for track precision.
• EVO37 Twin-Charged 4-Cyl: Explosive low-end torque; rally-like surge.

Suspension on both is double-wishbone with Öhlins dampers on the EVO37 and adjustable setups on the Stratos, shod in 265/315-section tires.

Performance Breakdown: Track vs Rally DNA

In straight-line sprints, the EVO37’s lighter weight and torque advantage give it a razor-thin edge: 0-100km/h in 3.0s vs 3.3s. However, the New Stratos’ higher top speed (330km/h) and V8 balance shine on high-speed circuits. Real-world tests praise the EVO37’s ‘jet-engine’ acceleration and explosive noise, likening it to an F40 or Lotus Evora hybrid.

Handling-wise, the Stratos’ longer wheelbase aids high-speed composure, carving corners with scalpel-like precision thanks to its 50/50 weight distribution. The EVO37, shorter and lower, embodies rally agility—playful oversteer controlled by its LSD and adjustable traction aids. Prototypes have spun wheels in fourth gear, hinting at untamed potential.

Interior and Driver Experience: Spartan Luxury

Cabins in both prioritize function over opulence. The New Stratos features Alcantara-trimmed buckets, digital gauges, and a compact cockpit mimicking the original’s intimacy. Climate control and infotainment are minimal, focusing on analog switchgear for track focus.

The EVO37 ups ante with Sparco seats, carbon dash, and modern touches like a small touchscreen, but retains a rally-car vibe—exposed rivets, quick-release steering. Entry is tight, rewarding drivers with a connected feel; wind and mechanical symphony dominate.

Pricing and Exclusivity: Collector’s Dream

Exclusivity defines both: New Stratos production caps at 25 units annually (~€750,000 each), EVO37 at 37 units (~€500,000-€680,000). Waitlists stretch years, with resale values soaring. The Stratos commands premium for Ferrari heritage; EVO37 appeals for rally purity.

Which One to Choose?

Opt for the New Stratos if you crave grand-touring poise and V8 symphony on sweeping roads. Choose the EVO37 for raw, turbocharged fury and lighter-footed playfulness echoing true rally roots. Both deliver Group B soul in 21st-century guise.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What powers the MAT New Stratos?

A 4.3L Ferrari-sourced V8 producing up to 550bhp.

Is the Kimera EVO37 manual or sequential?

Offers six-speed manual or automated sequential.

How many units of each car are made?

New Stratos: ~25/year; EVO37: 37 total.

Are these cars street-legal?

Yes, fully homologated for road use in Europe and select markets.

Which has better acceleration?

EVO37 edges with 3.0s to 100km/h vs 3.3s.