118bhp, 2451 cc overhead valve 60 degree V-6 engine, four-speed manual transmission, sliding pillar independent front suspension and trailing arm and swing axle rear suspension, four-wheel hydraulic drum brakes. Wheelbase: 96.5" (2,450mm)
The Aurelia was a truly revolutionary design, combining high levels of handling, performance, and luxury in a compact package. First offered as the B10, and introduced in 1950, the car created a sensation in automotive circles – it was an engineering tour de force, packaged in a delightful saloon with engaging coachwork by Pinin Farina.
The B20 GT, a lovely two-passenger coupé designed by Boano and built by Pininfarina, debuted just one year later. It was mechanically identical to the B10 with the exception of an increase in engine displacement to two litres. The B20 GT rejected any doubt as to its sporting capabilities by winning the legendary Mille Miglia outright and amassing other noteworthy victories that included the Targa Florio in 1952 and the 1954 Monte Carlo Rally.
By 1954, the time had come to offer a truly open car. Just as Ferrari had discovered, the emerging American market offered enormous potential, but demanded even more power, as well as open coachwork better suited to the warm climates. The result was truly inspired – the B24 Spyder America. Built to a Pinin Farina design, it was undoubtedly one of the most beautiful open cars of the 1950s. The car’s bold grille visibly established the family identity, but everything else was new. An aggressive hood scoop signaled the presence of the most powerful Aurelia that Lancia had ever built, a 118 brake horsepower, 2.5 litre version of the now legendary V6. The front fenders flowed gracefully into the rear body, while softly curved rear fenders with mild wheel flares gave the car a restrained but highly sporting feel. Most interesting of all was the stunning wraparound windshield with its removable side glass units and a well-fitted convertible top.
It is interesting to note that the cabriolet, introduced in 1956 as the successor to the Spyder, is a completely different car, with no two panels shared between them. Built in far greater numbers, the cabriolet’s heavier coachwork and more conservative design has relegated these otherwise quite desirable cars to a distant second place in the eyes of collectors.
The desirable Aurelias, however, had one major shortcoming; their advanced specifications, custom bodies, and superb quality made them expensive to build, and it is rumoured that Lancia lost money on every car that left the factory. Financial problems combined with Italy’s ubiquitous labour issues nearly bankrupted the company. As a result, very few examples were ever produced.
The Spyder offered here is one of 240 B24 Spyder Americas built. In fact, it is one of only 59 right-hand drive examples, of which only 30 to 35 examples are still known to exist. Factory records indicate that 1045 was produced between May and June 1955 finished in grey with red leather interior. The current owner purchased the vehicle in 2007 from Belgium at which point 1045 was inspected by Anthony Hussey of the Lancia Motor Club who confirmed it to be, “genuine and in good condition”. Hussey also noted that the engine number was correct to the chassis. Today 1045 is presented in restored condition and nicely finished in Lancia red with tan leather.
These attractive Spyders are highly prized by collectors as they offer a superb combination of delightfully nimble handling, quick and responsive steering, and undeniable grace and beauty. Their racing heritage and thoroughly sporting manner makes them not only eligible, but ideal candidates, for a wide variety of driving events worldwide.
Documents:
UK V5
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