1954 Lancia Aurelia B20 GT Series IV
Highlights
- Conservatively restored following its import from Portugal in 2008
- Rebuilt engine with a new crankshaft
- Desirable 'S' (Sinistra/LHD) specification
- Current Italian technical inspection, passed in February 2023
- The vendor informs us that this example is Mille Miglia eligible
- Retains a great deal of its originality
The Appeal
Hailing from the period when Lancia were amongst the most innovative manufacturers in the automotive industry, the Aurelia B20 was a technological tour de force - as beautifully engineered as it was styled. Boasting a V6 engine, transaxle, monocoque construction, inboard brakes and a raft of other groundbreaking solutions, it showed other manufacturers what was technologically possible and gave the world a superlative grand tourer.
This exquisite 1954 example is one of the first Lancias to be offered in left-hand drive and the vendor informs us that it would be eligible to participate in the Mille Miglia Storica. Upon being imported from Portugal in 2008, the car underwent what the vendor terms a ‘conservative restoration’ - by which they mean it was sympathetically overhauled, repainting, rechroming and rebuilding various components only where absolutely necessary. The result, we’re sure you’ll agree, are simply magnificent, and this is one of the most original and well presented examples we’ve seen.
The History and Paperwork
- Imported from portugal in 2008
- Conservatively restored shortly after arrival in Italy
- First Italian registered in 2009
- Italian registration documents present
- Current Revisione, passed in february 2023
- A pair of invoices for mechanical work amount to €20,319.51 and €5,000 respectively
- ASI membership, with accompanying paperwork
- Lancia Registro Storico correspondence providing provenance
The Interior
- Delightfully patinated leather upholstery
- Very original
- Period instrumentation and radio
While factory records suggest this car began life with a cloth interior, the vendor believes this leather upholstery may have been fitted from new and the patination would certainly suggest that it has been there for a long time. The rear seat has been recovered at some point, but the remainder may well be original to the car. Elsewhere, this interior is remarkably original, with a number of exquisite original details having been carefully preserved.
The painted dashboard looks wonderful and houses original switchgear and Veglia instrumentation. There’s also a period correct radio which would appear to have been fitted from the factory. The vendor assures us that everything works correctly with the exception of the choke lever which is apparently in need of some adjustment. Neither the rubber floor mats or boot liner are excessively worn, the headlining presents well and all the controls are in nice order.
The Exterior
- Fetching beige paintwork - resprayed around fifteen years ago
- Rechromed trim - where necessary
- Very smart bodywork and underside
Beige really suits a car of this vintage and its understated nature doesn’t draw attention away from the Aurelia’s fabulous lines. Streamlined and elegant, it’s a masterpiece in both function and form.
This example has been restored to just the right degree in our view. It isn’t overly shiny, but it is very straight and the paintwork looks to be really even. It was resprayed around fifteen years ago and so it has gently mellowed to the extent that the newer paint fits in beautifully with the original, unrestored areas such as the door jambs and on the inside of panels. We’re informed that the chrome was also refinished where required and this all continues to present very nicely. The underside was not restored and benefits from careful corrosion prevention over the years, as well of course, from a lifetime spent in drier climes. All the glass and light lenses seem in good order, as do the wheels, hubcaps and rubbers.
While there are of course some very small blemishes in places, there’s no notable damage anywhere to be seen and overall, this is an exceedingly well presented car.
The Mechanics
- 2.5-litre V6 engine
- Four-speed manual gearbox (column change)
- Transaxle driving the rear wheels
- Inboard rear brakes
- Engine previously rebuilt and equipped with a new crankshaft
- The braking system was refurbished at the same time as the engine rebuild
- New Revisione as of February 2023
This Lancia looks really original under the bonnet, which is helped by the fact it hasn’t been repainted. It retains its charming instructional notices on small plaques affixed to the underside of the bonnet lid and every detail looks original - besides the modern battery of course.
The 2.5-litre V6 was key to the Aurelia’s success and the one belonging to this example was rebuilt in 2009 following some issues. The crankshaft was found to be scored and beyond tolerance for a re-grind, so it has been replaced. The braking system was also given a thorough overhaul and we’re informed that the car drives very well as a result. We’re not informed of any mechanical issues and we’re informed that a recent service and inspection has been carried out.
The vendor remarks that the car is ready to use and is fabulous to drive.
Summary
Highly regarded by collectors, the Fourth generation of Aurelia B20 GT is one of the most impressive cars of the twentieth century and we’re delighted to be able to say that this is one of the finest examples we’ve seen.
Restored to just the right degree, ensuring much of its originality is intact, this supremely usable example is ready to roll up to the startline of the Mille Miglia Storica.
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.
All bidding, buying and offers are subject to our Terms and Conditions.
Shipping and transfer
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. For more details, email [email protected].
Vehicle specification
- Year 1954
- Make Lancia
- Model Aurelia
- Colour Beige
- Odometer 69,883 Miles
- Engine size 2500
Listing Details
- Seller Type Trade
- Town Treviso
- Location International
- Country Italy
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