1958 Lancia Aurelia

Lancia has long been known for exquisitely crafted, cleverly engineered automobiles, leading some fans to refer to the Torinese firm as the Italian Mercedes-Benz. The principles established by founder Vincenzo Lancia informed his engineers for decades as they turned out some of the most influential automobiles of all time. Well before World War II, Lancia pioneered the use of independent front suspension and monocoque chassis construction. After WWII, Lancias commitment to engineering excellence remained as strong as ever.

Development of the revolutionary Aurelia began toward the end of World War II, with the first production models arriving in 1951. Lancias use of the monocoque chassis continued with the Aurelia. The strong and light platform had independent suspension with trailing arms in the rear connected to an aft-mounted transaxle gearbox. This not only imparted the Aurelia with exceptional handling balance, but it also allowed for a low driveshaft tunnel, limiting intrusion into the cabin and providing ample room for six passengers in the Berlina models. Other features included inboard rear brakes, and the worlds first production V6 engine featuring overhead valves and hemispherical combustion chambers. The Aurelia debuted as the B10 four-door Berlina, followed by numerous variants including the striking B20 coupe, short-wheelbase Spider America, and the beautiful B24 Convertible.

From the 4th Series onward (including all open cars) the Aurelia got a new deDion rear suspension design, which improved chassis balance and stability, particularly at high-speed. Subsequent Series 5 and 6 cars gained additional mechanical updates, boosting performance and refinement. The sophisticated Convertible evolved from bare-bones Spider America, adding roll-up door glass, a taller windscreen with opening quarter vents, more comfortable seats, and a more durable soft top. The body gained one-piece bumpers and larger doors with exterior handles. These welcome improvements made the Convertible a much more practical and usable proposition. Between 1956 and 1958, some 521 examples were built.

Presented in Grigio Newmarket over Pelle Rossa, S/N B24S1445 is a desirable 6th Series Aurelia B24 S Convertible, completed on September 12, 1957, as confirmed by the accompanying Certificato di Origine. This left-drive car has enjoyed long-term care with a short list of owners. It is said to have had just three owners until 1977, when it was acquired by an enthusiast based in Scarboro, Ontario, Canada, and it remained in the loving care of that family until 2019. During their long tenure, some light cosmetic refurbishment was done, and the car was otherwise maintained in excellent order and enjoyed on rare occasions.

In 2019 the most recent owners acquired S/N 1445, and after a mechanical service, enjoyed the car on the 1000-mile Colorado Grand rally, which it successfully completed. After the rally, the cosmetics were freshened to include new Grigio Newmarket paint (a slightly darker factory shade than the original Grigio), restored chrome and brightwork, fitment of new grey carpets, new period-correct rubber mats, a new canvas top, and assorted new fasteners, gaskets, and weatherstripping. Mechanical work included a new steering box, renewed bushes, rebuilt hydraulic cylinders, and more, with the work totaling approximately $60,000. Following its refresh, it successfully completed the Colorado Grand for a second time.

Presented in excellent condition and displaying a light character from use, this Aurelia remains an outstanding prospect to enjoy in classic rallies or to display with pride in shows and club gatherings. The color combination beautifully complements the gorgeous Pinin Farina coachwork, and it retains authentic details including bi-metal disc wheels, Michelin Radial X tires, Marchal lamps, and more. The original 2,451 cc OHV V6 sits in a tidy engine compartment, and period-correct details include the distinctive low-profile air cleaner and wrinkle-finish valve covers. The accompanying certificate of origin confirms the engine serial number as the original unit.

This handsome Lancia is furnished with a generous history file including restoration receipts, select service records, a 1977 bill of sale, and FCA archive documentation. There is also a tool kit with a jack and Lancia-branded tools, as well as a rare and desirable Nardi inlet manifold and triple carburetors included separately. The B24S Convertible was one of the most elegant and technically advanced cars of its time, and this excellent example, recently lavished upon, will shine brightest when continually enjoyed and driven with gusto.

Offers welcome and trades considered.