Gregor Wenner
Specialist Consultant
LOT 37
1940 Lancia Aprilia Berlina Lusso Chassis no. 43820705
Estimate: €50,000 - €70,000
1940 Lancia Aprilia Berlina Lusso
Chassis no. 43820705
Chassis no. 43820705
• Automotive design landmark
• Desirable Pre-War model
• Original colour combination
• Eligible for numerous events including the Mille Miglia
• Costruzione molto avanzata per il suo tempo
• Versione ricercata ante Guerra
• Abbinamento colori originale
• Eleggibile per numerosi eventi e Mille Miglia
• Desirable Pre-War model
• Original colour combination
• Eligible for numerous events including the Mille Miglia
• Costruzione molto avanzata per il suo tempo
• Versione ricercata ante Guerra
• Abbinamento colori originale
• Eleggibile per numerosi eventi e Mille Miglia
Footnotes
One of the most gifted automobile engineers of all time, Vincenzo Lancia did not live long enough to see his final creation enter production, although the exacting parameters he set out would shape what many consider to be the true ancestor of the modern motor car. Launched in 1937, two months after his death, the Aprilia set new standards in production car design. Vincenzo Lancia had specified that this new small saloon should weigh less than 900 kilograms, be less than 4 metres in length, seat five adults in comfort, possess independent suspension, be capable of attaining 130km/h (80mph), and consume fuel at a rate of 10 litres per 100 kilometres. Faced with these challenging demands, the design team had little option but to abandon conventional thinking.
Presaging post-war developments, the Aprilia saloon broke away from the traditional 'three-box' layout and incorporated Vincenzo Lancia's specified 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. Allowed little space to work with, Lancia's designers concentrated on packaging the drive-train as effectively as possible; the differential, brakes, suspension and wheels being assembled separately for inclusion as a single unit. Rather than being merely a styling device, the Aprilia's streamlined shape had been determined by wind tunnel experimentation, one of the very first instances of the science of aerodynamics being applied to a production car. This meant that despite having only 1,351cc (later 1,485cc) at its disposal the Aprilia was indeed capable of 130km/h, while the advanced running gear ensured that it 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.
According to the Certificate if Origine (issued by Lancia), this charming pre-war Aprilia was completed on 8th February 1940 and sold to its first owner in Naples on 27th February 1940. The colour recorded was nero (black) with a panno nocciola (hazelnut coloured cloth) interior, the same colour combination it is presented in today. Beautifully presented and having the benefit of having been looked after in the exclusive private collection of the vendor, this Aprilia is ready for its next custodian and is importantly, eligible for numerous historic events including the historic Mille Miglia.
Please note that these lot will require an Export License to be exported out of Italy.
Saleroom notices
Please note that a new Italian registration documents has been applied for and will be issued approximately 1 month after the sale. The vendor confirms that it will be issued with the original registration number
Additional information
Looking for a similar item?
Our Cars specialists can help you find a similar item at an auction or via a private sale.
Find your local specialistSpecialist section
Auction Viewings
- 18 November 2022, 10:00 - 22:00 CET
- 19 November 2022, 10:00 - 19:00 CET
- 20 November 2022, 10:00 - 19:00 CET
Bid now on these items
United Kingdom
1899 Phébus 2¼hp Motor Tricycle
£50,000 - £60,000
United KingdomOffered without reserve
1910 Brasier 12/18HP 12C Tourer
£40,000 - £60,000
United Kingdom
1913 Hotchkiss Model AD 20/30 Tourer
£50,000 - £60,000
United Kingdom
1902 Beaufort 8hp Two-Seater Phaeton
£50,000 - £70,000
United KingdomOffered without reserve
c.1901 Gladiator Four-Seat Rear-Entrance Tonneau
£50,000 - £70,000