Highlights
- The vendor informs us that the 7,435 kilometres indicated on the odometer is accurate
- Very original condition, inside and out
- Benefits from a recent service and apparently drives really well
The Appeal
Few small, post-war family saloons can claim to be half so well engineered and beautifully executed as a Lancia Aprilia. With a clever V4 engine, pillarless doors opening up the entire side of the cabin and flowing styling developed with aerodynamics in mind, the Aprillia was a technological tour de force.
Here we have a charming 1948 example, presented in excellent original condition. The vendor believes the 7,435 indicated kilometres to be correct, which is quite remarkable when you consider that this car is now three quarters of a century old.
This charming car has been beautifully preserved over the years and doesn’t look anything near its true age. If you’re looking for a superlative example, then this is the car for you.
This charming car has been beautifully preserved over the years and doesn’t look anything near its true age. If you’re looking for a superlative example, then this is the car for you.
The History and Paperwork
- In current ownership for the past 10-12 years
- Reportedly stored indoors its whole life
- 7,435 kilometres - believed accurate
- Original and unrestored
- Registered in Italy
- Right-hand drive - as many Italian cars were during this period
The Interior
- Corduroy seats with mottled effect
- Velour door cards with an intricate vertical pattern
- Smart headlining and carpeting with only light patina
- Exquisite original controls and instrumentation
- Period correct Autovox radio
Seldom does one see a 1940s car interior in such a great state of preservation. Besides some light age related patina, this Lancia’s cabin is like a snapshot in time, with barely any wear to any of the controls or upholstery.
The seats are in fabulous condition, upholstered in a cosseting corduroy with a curious mottled pattern. There’s little in the way of wear to be seen and they remain plump as if barely used. The contrasting door trims which extend up around the pillars and along the roof line are really smart too and we couldn't detect any significant wear or damage. All the carpeting looks really fine, with just the lightest of abrasions and small marks in places.
A painted dashboard houses that magnificent gauge cluster which we understand to be in good working order. There’s also the original switchgear and a 1948 Autovox radio with its speaker - all of which the vendor says work well. Commensurate with the exceedingly low indicated mileage, the controls exhibit very little wear and we enjoy the fine details such as the intricate gear knob and the knurled roller accelerator.
The Exterior
- Smart metallic paintwork
- Straight and apparently corrosion-free bodywork
- Remarkably few paint blemishes
Like the inside, the exterior of this Aprilia is in fantastic order, with very few imperfections anywhere to be seen.
The streamlined bodywork remains in lovely condition, with no obvious signs of corrosion or significant damage. It’s very straight down the sides and the panels all fit nicely. All the trims present exceedingly well for their age including the hubcaps and badging. The metallic paintwork shimmers and changes tone in the daylight. Besides some small blemishes around the edge of panels and a chip in the offside rear wing, there’s really no wear to report and the vendor comments that this car is impressively devoid of scratches overall.
The steel wheels wear Michelin tyres and are in really nice shape with some light patina. Underneath, everything appears in nice condition with no heavy corrosion or damage apparently. All the glass looks in good shape, as do the various light lenses.
The Mechanics
- 1486 cc V4 engine
- Manual gearbox
- All presents really well under the bonnet
- Apparently serviced very recently
- Has proved very reliable in current ownership with no breakdowns
The vendor remarks that this Lancia has been very reliable, with no breakdowns or significant issues - which is rather impressive for a 75 year old car. The V4 engine presents well under the bonnet and reportedly runs without fault. The gearbox is said to select ratios smoothly and the inboard brakes apparently function well.
The vendor informs us that the Aprilia is fantastic to drive and following a recent service, it is apparently ready to enjoy.
Summary
It isn’t often you find a car of this age with such apparent low mileage. This Lancia Aprilia is in truly marvellous condition and we’re sure its next owner will cherish it for years to come.
Notice to bidders
This item is sold on an ‘As is Where is’ basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and listing descriptions are for guidance purposes only*.** Car & Classic do not warrant listing accuracy. Full inspection is recommended. Viewings are at the seller’s discretion. Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased.*
A non-refundable buyer’s deposit is payable on this item, refer to FAQs and T&Cs for the applicable percentage.
Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased. Car & Classic may refer a shipping company that also deals with import/export paperwork. Prices start at €150+VAT within the same country or €400+VAT for moves across borders.
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