1948 Lancia Aprilia
The Lancia Aprilia was particularly suitable for special coachwork and above all Pinin Farina bodied the most. However, numerous chassis came into Switzerland where they received a special exterior by Beutler, Worblaufen, or Langenthal.
Langenthal had already completed some Aprilia cabriolets before the war, and this is a post war example. Cars like this one were displayed at Geneva every now and then – always in hope to return home with full order books. Langenthal realized several body styles based on the Lancia chassis and the company is still active today.
This particular example was displayed as part of the ‘100 years of Swiss coachwork’ display at the 2005 Geneva Auto Salon.
In Detail
| submitted by | Richard Owen |
| engine | Inline-4 |
| displacement | 1486 cc / 90.7 in³ |
| power | 35.8 kw / 48 bhp |
| specific output | 32.3 bhp per litre |
| f brake size | mm / in |
| r brake size | mm / in |
| gear ratios | :1 |
| top speed | ~125 kph / 77.7 mph |
1938 Lancia Aprilia Saloon Chassis no. 38-5299 – sold for €35,650. This partially restored example is believed to have been campaigned on the Lisbon International Rally in 1950 driven by the Portuguese driver, Manuel Santos Pinto. Previously forming part of an exclusive collection in Portugal for many years, the Aprilia is described by the owner as in generally very good original condition and good working order, with lovely patina to the paintwork, etc. Finished in brown with beige cloth interior, the car is offered with Portuguese registration documents. It is worth noting that these early pre-war Aprilias are eligible for the Mille Miglia and other popular historic events. Auction Source: The Paris Sale 2012 by Bonhams
