1955 Lancia Aurelia: The Timeless Charm

Engine V6Horsepower 118 hp @ 5,200 RPMTorque 142 lb-ft @ 3,200 RPMEngine Location FrontDrive Type RWD Weight 1,100 kg | 2,425 lbTransmission 4-speed manual

Lancia Aurelia was a masterpiece of Italian engineering and design, an automobile that pushed the boundaries of what was possible and set a new standard for automotive excellence. From its innovative V6 engine to its sleek, sophisticated design and exceptional driving dynamics, this elegant vehicle was truly one of a kind, a vehicle that is remembered as a true icon of the automotive world.

Source: Bring a Trailer

In the years following World War II, the world was hungry for innovation and progress. And in the automotive industry, few cars embodied that spirit of innovation more than the Lancia Aurelia. With its sleek, aerodynamic lines, powerful V6 engine, and advanced suspension system, this elegant model was a true masterpiece of Italian engineering. But beyond its impressive technical specifications, the model was a vehicle that captured the imagination of drivers and enthusiasts alike, with its dynamic, sporty appearance and refined, luxurious interior. Whether roaring down the open road or gliding through the city streets, this elegant automobile turned heads and inspired admiration, a symbol of the exciting new era that was dawning in the automotive world.

The origins

Source: Petrolicious

The story of Lancia began in the early 20th century, when Vincenzo Lancia, an Italian racing driver, and engineer, began building automobiles for the Turin-based company, Fiat. Lancia quickly gained a reputation for his technical expertise and innovative designs, but in 1906, Vincenzo left Fiat to start his own company, which he named Lancia & C. Over the next few years, the newly established brand built several successful racing vehicles, including the Lambda, which featured an innovative monocoque body design. But Vincenzo’s ambitions went beyond just building racing vehicles. He wanted to create an automobile that combined performance, luxury, and innovation in a way that had never been seen before. In 1936, the brand unveiled its latest creation: the Aprilia. The brand’s innovative spirit continued to thrive and reached its pinnacle in 1950 with the launch of the Aurelia, an iconic model that revolutionized the automotive industry. The automobile’s standout feature was its powerful V6 engine, the world’s first production V6, which delivered an unparalleled performance with a smooth and refined drive. Its sleek and sophisticated design was also remarkable, with aerodynamic curves that exuded an air of elegance and luxury. The Aurelia not only set a new standard for automotive excellence but also established the brand as a trailblazer in the automotive world. Throughout its history, the Italian brand maintained its dedication to innovation, which was evident in the introduction of new models such as Flavia, Fulvia, and Stratos. These models not only exemplified the company’s focus on luxury and performance but also showcased its relentless drive for innovation. As a result, Lancia is now recognized as one of the pioneering forces in the automotive industry, a company that challenged conventional thinking and produced some of the most exceptional vehicles ever made.

The 1955 model year

Source: Pinterest

In 1955, the company released a new and improved version of its top-of-the-line car. This edition included several upgrades in the technical, interior, and exterior aspects, which established a new benchmark for automotive excellence. One of the most significant changes was the engine displacement, which increased from 2.0 liters to 2.5 liters, providing a power output of 118 horsepower. The updated engine featured better valve timing, larger carburetors, and a modified intake manifold that resulted in a smoother and more polished performance. Additionally, the exterior design of the 1955 version was also modified with a wider grille and bumpers, giving the car a more powerful and muscular look. The side profile remained largely unchanged, but the rear received redesigned taillights and a more prominent bumper. Inside, the 1955 Aurelia featured a revised dashboard layout, with the addition of a speedometer and tachometer, as well as new instruments for oil pressure, water temperature, and fuel level. The seats were also upgraded with improved padding and more comfortable upholstery, providing a luxurious and refined driving experience. Compared to the previous model year, the 1955 version offered improved handling and stability, thanks to upgrades to the suspension system, including stiffer springs and larger shock absorbers. The braking system was also revised, with larger drums and improved brake shoes, ensuring more efficient and reliable stopping power.

Did you know?

Source: Classic Driver

The 1955 edition was the first automobile to feature radial tires as standard equipment. Radial tires were a relatively new technology at the time, and the brand’s decision to use them was a significant innovation in the automotive industry. The radial tires offered superior handling and comfort compared to traditional bias-ply tires, and their use on the Aurelia set a new standard for other car manufacturers to follow.