Description
Known for superb engineering and excellent performance the Aurelia was designed under the supervision of the legendary Vittorio Jano, the mastermind behind the all-conquering Alfa Romeo P2, 6C and 8C of the pre-war years. Jano’s arrival set the stage for Lancia’s burst of fame and glory on the international competition stage, in which the Aurelia would play a starring role.
The Aurelia was a ground-breaking design with a new, all-aluminium V6 engine (the world’s first production V6) set well back in the frame. Lancia’s famous independent sliding pillar front suspension was employed along with independent rear suspension. The gearbox and clutch were housed in a lightweight aluminium-cased transaxle which along with engine positioning gave an ideal 50/ 50 weight distribution. In addition, inboard rear brakes reduced un-sprung weight.
Launched at the 1950 Turin Motor Show this revolutionary new model was initially available as a four-door saloon, but soon spawned more exotic variants. The Pininfarina-styled Aurelia B24 Spyder was introduced in 1954 and was replaced by the B24 Convertible. Wind-up door windows with quarterlights replaced the removable side-screens of the Spyder and the Convertible was an altogether more civilised proposition than its predecessor.
Chassis number B24S 1316 is a ‘Sinistra’ (left hand drive) example produced in 1956 and therefore eligible for the prestigious Mille Miglia. This very attractive Aurelia Convertible has engine number B24S 1734 and was delivered new to California, residing there until 1986 when it was re-imported into Italy and restored.
The car was advertised for sale with London dealer Graeme Hunt in 2012 and was registered in the UK in March 2013. A dating letter on file from The Society of Automotive Historians of Britain dated February 2013 confirms a build year of 1956.
Today this beautiful Aurelia remains in excellent condition and is ready to be enjoyed by its next custodian.
