1939 Lancia Aprilia Saloon
Registration no. HPU 262 Chassis no. 389385

Bonhams MPH December Auction|11 December 2020, 13:00 GMT|Bicester, Bicester Heritage

1939 Lancia Aprilia Saloon
Registration no. HPU 262
Chassis no. 389385

Odometer reading: not known
MoT expiry date: exempt

*Landmark of automotive design
*Resident in Northern Ireland since the 1950s
*Present ownership for some 30 years
*Restored 25 years ago
*Good history file

Launched in 1937, two months after Vincenzo Lancia's death, the Aprilia set new standards in production car design. Presaging post-war developments, the saloon broke away from the traditional 'three-box' layout and incorporated all-independent suspension and hydraulic braking, while the unitary construction bodyshell and overhead-camshaft narrow-angle V4 engine were advances Lancia devotees had enjoyed for many years. Rather than being merely a styling device, the Aprilia's streamlined shape had been determined by wind tunnel experimentation. This meant that despite having only 1,351cc (later 1,485cc) at its disposal, the Aprilia was good for nearly 80mph and stopped and handled better than anything in its class. 'Mirror-image' doors and pillar-less construction ensured that for ease of passenger access the Aprilia was unrivalled.
We are advised by the vendor that this Aprilia was brought to Northern Ireland in the 1950s by a 'Linen Baron' together with a large quantity of spares (still available). The vendor restored the car around 25 years ago, including an interior re-trim in top quality leather. Since its acquisition some 30 years ago the Lancia has always been stored in a heated garage. The vendor advises us that the engine, transmission, steering, and brakes are in excellent condition, and describes the paintwork as a little tired, though rust free.

To Schedule a video condition report for this lot please click here

Footnotes

Vendor Score Total: 84/100

Bidders should note that the automated 100-point Seller's Assessment is provided by each Seller at the point of consignment using the guidelines below, and is not provided, assessed or verified by Bonhams MPH. Accordingly Customers (Bidders) are on notice that each vehicle is offered "as is / as seen" subject to the Conditions of Sale for the auction, and Customers (Bidders) are strongly recommended to view the Lot(s) being offered, before bidding, in order to satisfy themselves as to their condition; Bonhams MPH will not entertain disputes over Sellers' Assessments.

Key for sellers' assessments:
1/5 POOR. A project vehicle | Requires urgent attention | Damaged | Parts missing
2/5 AVERAGE. Useable condition | Requires some attention | Light damage
3/5 GOOD. Drive away | Presents well | Good history file | Drives well
4/5 VERY GOOD. Well restored | Running and driving with no noticeable faults | Sound throughout
5/5 EXCELLENT. Concours condition | Beautifully presented | Driving very well

EXTERIOR TOTAL: 20/25
Body Work: 5
Chrome/Plastics/Trim: 4
Glass: 4
Paint: 3
Wheels/Tyres: 4

INTERIOR TOTAL: 20/20
Dashboard/Door cards/Carpets: 5
Headlining: 5
Seats: 5
Trim: 5

ENGINE TOTAL: 16/20
Mechanical components: 4
Running: 4
Starting: 4
Under Bonnet: 4

RUNNING GEAR TOTAL: 16/20
Axles: 4
Brakes: 4
Gearbox/Clutch: 4
Suspension: 4

ELECTRICAL TOTAL: 8/10
Ancillary components: 4
Main components: 4

Car History File: 4/5

Saleroom notices

Please note there is an electrical short on the ignition switch. Please click the link to view the walkaround video of this lot: click here

Additional information

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