The sporting version of the road-going Lancia Delta HF 4WD model is an icon of rally cars. The Delta HF was produced in the second half of the 1980s and competed in the World Rally Championship from 1987 to 1988, winning two world titles and finishing first in numerous events such as the prestigious Rallye Monte-Carlo and the Rallye Sanremo. Its evolution, the Lancia Delta Integrale, competed until 1993, won another five world titles, and strengthened the off-road competition record of the Italian company Lancia. In 1988 and 1989, the Lancia Delta achieved major victories in the Safari Rally, the legendary competition founded in 1953 that crossed several African countries and is considered one of the toughest races in the world. The Delta was specially prepared with dedicated suspension, stronger shock absorbers, and several additional protective components to better withstand the difficulties of the routes.