Makes and Models: Aurelia

Beyond its powerful engine, the Aurelia was also renowned for its luxurious interior and comfortable ride. First introduced in 1950, the Aurelia truly set a new standard for luxury cars during its time. It was designed to be a high-performance grand touring vehicle that offered a perfect blend of comfort, speed, and style.

Source: Sports Purpose

The unique blend of features in the Lancia Aurelia made it stand out as an exceptional vehicle, representing the automotive industry’s creative and innovative spirit. Although it had been around for a while, the Aurelia is still cherished as a classic by enthusiasts globally, proving the enduring legacy of this iconic Italian automobile. Its continued popularity is a testament to its timeless appeal and the passion it evokes in people who appreciate its design and performance.

The origins

Source: Tom Hartley Jnr

In the early 1950s, the automotive world was buzzing with excitement. The Italian automaker was at the forefront of this revolution, with a brand-new automobile that would soon make history. This was the Lancia Aurelia, a vehicle that would set a new standard for luxury and performance, and become an icon of Italian engineering. The story of this model began in the late 1940s when the company was looking to develop a new vehicle that would showcase its technical prowess. It was intended as a grand tourer, a high-performance vehicle designed for long-distance driving in style and comfort. The man tasked with designing the novelty was Vittorio Jano, a brilliant engineer who had previously worked for Alfa Romeo. Jano set to work on the project, drawing on his years of experience in the automotive industry to create a vehicle that would push the boundaries of what was possible. Jano’s design was revolutionary. The Aurelia was the first automobile to feature a V6 engine, which gave it an unprecedented combination of power and smoothness. The engine was also mounted longitudinally, allowing for a lower center of gravity and better handling. The prototype was completed in 1950, and it was an immediate sensation. Its sleek lines, advanced technology, and impressive performance made it a favorite among automotive enthusiasts and journalists.

But it wasn’t just Aurelia’s technical features that made it special. The car also had a level of luxury and refinement that was unmatched at the time. The interior was beautifully appointed, with leather seats, polished wood trim, and a range of advanced features, including power windows and air conditioning. The model went into production in 1951, and it was an instant success. It quickly became the car of choice for wealthy and discerning buyers, and it established Lancia as one of the world’s premier automakers. Over the years, the model went through several changes and updates, but it remained a symbol of Italian engineering and design excellence. Today, the car is a coveted collector’s item, and it continues to inspire automotive enthusiasts around the world.

The 1953 model year

Source: Drive

1953 was marked by several technical, interior, and exterior upgrades that set it apart from previous iterations of the model. One of the key technical improvements of the 1953 edition was the addition of a de Dion rear suspension system. This advanced suspension design helped to improve the automobile’s handling and stability, particularly in high-speed driving situations. It also allowed for a more comfortable ride, as the suspension was better able to absorb bumps and shocks in the road. Under the hood, the 1953 version featured a 2.5-liter V6 engine, which had been refined and improved from previous models. The engine was capable of producing 118 horsepower, which was a significant improvement over earlier versions of the vehicle. It was also mated to a four-speed manual transmission, which gave drivers complete control over the car’s power and performance. On the exterior, the 1953 release featured several subtle design changes that helped to distinguish it from earlier models. The car had a slightly more streamlined look, with a sloping hood and rounded fenders that gave it a more aerodynamic appearance. The front grille was also redesigned, with a more modern and elegant look that emphasized the car’s luxury and sophistication. Inside, the 1953 release was a study of Italian craftsmanship and attention to detail. The interior was beautifully appointed, with leather seats, polished wood trim, and a range of advanced features. The dashboard featured a full complement of gauges and instruments, including a tachometer, speedometer, and fuel gauge. The steering wheel was also redesigned, with a more ergonomic shape that made it easier to grip and control.

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Source: Classic Driver

One of the most famous movies to feature the 1953 Lancia Aurelia was the classic 1967 film “The Graduate”. In the movie, the main character, Benjamin Braddock (played by Dustin Hoffman), drove a red 1953 edition of the model. The 1953 edition was shown in several scenes throughout the movie, including the famous scene where Benjamin speeded down a California highway to the tune of Simon & Garfunkel’s “The Sound of Silence”.

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The Lancia Aurelia was an incredible vehicle that truly captured the spirit of Italian engineering and design. With its sleek, aerodynamic body and innovative V6 engine, the Aurelia was ahead of its time in many ways. Yet, it was also an automobile that could be driven and enjoyed daily, with a comfortable interior and smooth ride.

Source: Hagerty for agents

What made the Aurelia truly special was its combination of style and substance. It looked and felt luxurious, yet was also practical and reliable. Whether cruising down a winding country road or navigating city traffic, the Aurelia was a joy to drive. It was a true testament to the ingenuity and passion of the Lancia engineers and designers who brought it to life. Today, this outstanding automobile remains a beloved classic that continues to inspire and captivate enthusiasts around the world.

The origins

Source: ClassiccarGarage

The Lancia Aurelia appeared in the early 1950s through a team of talented engineers and designers led by Vittorio Jano. Jano was a legendary figure in the world of Italian sports vehicle engineering, having previously worked with Alfa Romeo and helped design the iconic Alfa Romeo P2. Jano and his team set out to create a sports vehicle that would embody the cutting-edge technology and style of Italian engineering. They began by developing an innovative new V6 engine, which would power the model and give it the kind of performance that was rare for automobiles of its time. This engine would be a true work of art, with smooth lines and a powerful, yet refined sound. The design team then turned their attention to the automobile’s exterior, crafting a sleek and aerodynamic body that would be both beautiful and functional. The body of the Aurelia was made from lightweight aluminum, which helped to reduce the car’s weight and improve its handling. In 1950, the prototype was unveiled at the Turin Motor Show. It was an instant sensation, with its striking design and impressive performance capturing the hearts of automotive enthusiasts and critics alike. The model quickly gained a reputation as one of the most advanced and desirable sports vehicles of its time. Over the years, the model continued to evolve and improve, with new modifications and updates introduced to keep it at the forefront of the sports vehicle world. However, it was the original Aurelia that truly set the standard for Italian sports car design and performance, and its legacy lives on to this day as a testament to the ingenuity and passion of the company’s engineers and designers who brought it to life.

The 1956 model year

Source: Bonhams

The 1956 edition was a masterpiece of Italian engineering, with a level of technical sophistication that set it apart from other sports cars of its era. Its advanced V6 engine was capable of producing up to 118 horsepower, delivering smooth and responsive acceleration. The suspension system was equally innovative, featuring an independent rear suspension and a de Dion tube axle that provided excellent handling and stability on the road. The 1956 edition’s exterior was just as impressive, with sleek and aerodynamic lines that gave it a sense of grace and elegance. The body was crafted from lightweight aluminum, with a unique design that emphasized both form and function. The front grille was an iconic feature of the automobile, with its distinctive Lancia emblem set against a backdrop of fine mesh. The interior of the model was equally luxurious, with comfortable and supportive seats upholstered in fine leather. The dashboard was clean and uncluttered, with a large speedometer and tachometer placed in the center of the instrument cluster. The steering wheel was a work of art, with a polished metal frame and a wooden rim that felt both sturdy and refined in your hands. The gear shifter and pedals were precisely placed, making for easy and responsive gear changes. Additional features of the 1956 release included a heating system, which was a rarity in sports cars of the time, as well as a radio and a clock. The automobile’s advanced technical features also included a hydraulic clutch and disc brakes, which were cutting-edge innovations at the time. In summary, the 1956 model was a car that combined beauty, innovation, and performance in a way that few other vehicles could match. Its technical sophistication and luxurious interior made it a true masterpiece of Italian engineering, and its legacy continues to inspire car enthusiasts around the world to this day.

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Source: RM Sotheby’s

Some famous owners of the 1956 edition include the Italian actor Marcello Mastroianni, the French singer Edith Piaf, and the American jazz musician Miles Davis. 

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In the distant 50s, Lancia’s popularity went off the scale, and the list of innovative solutions amazed and frightened competitors. One such innovation was the world’s first mass-produced V6 engine installed in the Lancia Aurelia.

Source: Bonhams

In the current automotive landscape, the Lancia brand, which is a part of Fiat Chrysler Automobiles, is hardly noticeable. It is exclusively available for purchase in Italy, and its survival owes much to the loyalty and national pride of Italian customers. However, there were times, when Lancia competed with Alfa Romeo, Ferrari, Maserati, and the best European brands, winning races, and bitting these brands with technical innovations and with a fantastic design. Classic car collectors carefully store models of the brand in their garages, treating these vehicles produced in the best years as the most valuable relics. These, of course, include the Aurelia model, equipped with bodies from eminent Italian studios, in particular Vignale.

The origins

Source: Tom Hartley Jnr

The Italian automaker introduced Aurelia in 1950. It was Pininfarina auto studio’s creation, under the direct guidance of the talented engineer Vittorio Yano, who left Alfa-Romeo for Pininfarina. Yano’s automobile immediately captivated everyone’s attention with its beauty and grace, making it incredibly competitive in post-war Europe regarding technical innovations. The first in the history of serial automotive production, a V6 engine with aluminum structural elements, a central camshaft, and spherical combustion chambers, was placed under the hood of the first Aurelia. Later, the engine volume gradually increased to 2451 cm3, and power reached the value of 112 hp. The second innovation was a system with one camshaft rotating alloy-made valve lifter. The cylinder head was shortened, giving it greater rigidity, and a Weber two-chamber carburetor was placed between the blocks. The load-bearing body of the model was made of sheet steel, except the hood and doors, which were made of duralumin alloy. The front suspension was independent, and the rear consisted of leaf springs with brakes placed on the main gear. From 1950 to 1953, Lancia produced the initial series of Aurelia, and the first generation remained in existence until 1958. In total, the assembly line churned out 20 thousand cars between 1950 and 1958.

The 1958 model year

Source: Historic Competitions

The 1958 model year of the Lancia Aurelia boasted an impressive combination of sleek and refined design elements that surpassed all previous modifications introduced during the B20 production run. Notable improvements for the 1958 release included enhancements to the trim, suspension, and gearbox, as well as significant upgrades to the drive shaft and clutch. These modifications addressed the issue of balance, which had been a drawback in earlier models. While the power of the 1958 Aurelia was reduced to 112 horsepower (84 kW), the increased torque compensated for the vehicle’s weight, resulting in improved performance. The Series 6 coupes featured vent windows and chrome strips on the hood, adding to their aesthetic appeal. The 1958 convertible had a resemblance to the fifth series of the model, albeit with minor differences in interior trim. A notable change in the 1958 Aurelia was the placement of the fuel tank. Unlike the previous series where the tank was located behind the seats, in the new model year, the fuel tank was positioned in the trunk. This adjustment allowed for a different configuration and utilization of space. Overall, the 1958 Lancia Aurelia model showcased advancements in both performance and design, with notable improvements to the drivetrain, interior and exterior features, and the overall driving experience.

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Source: Bonhams

In 1958, a B24 Convertible version of the model was introduced, receiving full doors, side windows, and a soft roof. A total of 521 B24 Convertibles were sold this year.

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The Lancia Aurelia was a true heartthrob and an expensive car in its time. It had a strong influence on the automotive industry, with many of its innovative features and stylistic solutions. Moreover, today, it remains a highly sought-after classic, with surviving examples commanding high prices at auctions. 

Source: Classic Driver

The Aurelia was considered a highly advanced and innovative automobile at the time of its production. Featuring several technological advancements, such as the first automobile with a V6 engine, and advances and exquisite design, it was also praised for its exceptional handling and performance, with the top-of-the-line B20 GT modification being particularly well-regarded. Additionally, the vehicle was successful in motorsports, winning the 1951 Mille Miglia and the 1952 Targa Florio. Overall, this Italian darling was considered an iconic and significant automobile in automotive history.

The origins

Source: Sports Purpose

The Lancia Aurelia was created by the Italian automaker, founded in 1906 by Vincenzo Lancia. The company, which was known for its advanced engineering and innovative design started the development of the Aurelia in the late 1940s, under the direction of the company’s chief engineer, Vittorio Jano. Jano aimed to create a car that would be advanced in terms of both engineering and design. He decided to use a V6 engine, which was a relatively new and untested configuration at the time and advanced unibody construction. After presenting the prototype at the 1950 Turin Motor Show, the model went into mass production with two modifications, the B10, and the B20. Equipped with a 1.8-liter V4 and a 2.5-liter V6, respectively Lancia’s novelty became an immediate success and was praised for its handling, performance, and advanced engineering. Undoubtedly, this model became one of the most desirable icon models, created by this brand.

The 1952 model year

Source: First Art Museum

The 1952 edition was available in several different modifications, including the B10, B12, and B20. The B10 model was powered by a 1.8-liter V4 engine paired with a four-speed manual transmission and rear-wheel drive. It could produce around 50 horsepower and reach a top speed of around 80 mph. The B12 was powered by a 2.5-liter V6 engine paired with a four-speed manual transmission and rear-wheel drive.  It produced 75 horsepower with a top speed of around 90 mph. The B20 GT model was the most powerful and advanced version of the 1952 model. It was equipped with a 2.5-liter V6 engine and five-speed manual transmission and rear-wheel drive, producing around 90 horsepower and reaching the top 100 mph of speed. All versions of the 1952 edition had a unibody construction, which was considered advanced for the time. The car also featured an independent front suspension, a live rear axle, and drum brakes. In terms of equipment, the 1952 release was well-appointed for a car of its time. It had a radio, a heater, and a cigarette lighter as standard equipment. 

The interior of the 1952 edition was luxurious and well-appointed. It featured leather upholstery, wood trim, and other high-end materials. The dashboard was made of polished wood and metal and had a simple and elegant design, with the speedometer and other gauges grouped in the center. The steering wheel was also made of wood and metal and had a small Lancia emblem in the center. The seats were comfortable and supportive, with adjustable headrests. The rear seats were also spacious and comfortable, and the interior featured a spacious and well-designed glove box, door pockets, and a trunk. The windows were operated by a manual crank, and the car also had a sunroof for the B20 GT version. In addition, the automobile had good sound isolation, which made for a comfortable and quiet ride. Overall, the interior of the 1952 release was one the bests of its time.

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Source: Revs Institute

Based on the customary practice, the Aurelia was made available not only as a factory-produced sedan but also as a distinct chassis, identified by the B50, B51, B52, or B53 designations, depending on the type of engine. In 1952, Pinin Farina Workshop constructed 265 four-seater convertible cars using the B50 chassis as the foundation.

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One of the most influential and outstanding Italian cars was highly advanced and innovative. Its ground-breaking V6 engine was a technological marvel, and using a transaxle for optimal weight distribution was a breakthrough in automotive engineering. 

Source: Hagerty

The Lancia Aurelia was a groundbreaking automobile that set the standard for many future luxury automobiles. Its V6 engine, designed by Francesco de Virgilio, was a significant innovation, as it was the first production V6 engine in the world. The vehicle’s transaxle, which combined the gearbox, clutch, and differential into one unit, also contributed to its excellent weight distribution. The model was available in various body styles, including a four-door saloon, two-door GT coupe, and convertible, which added to its versatility and appeal. Additionally, the automobile’s elegant styling and superior handling made it a favorite among enthusiasts and critics. It was recognized as one of the most important vehicles of the 1950s and one of the greatest Lancia ever made.

The origins

Source: Ruote Vecchie

This model was first introduced in 1950 and was designed under the supervision of Vittorio Jano, who was a renowned engineer and designer. Jano had previously worked for Alfa Romeo and was responsible for designing some of their most successful racing automobiles, including the Alfa Romeo P2, 8C, and 6C. The development of the Aurelia started in the late 1940s, intending to create a luxury automobile that would be technologically advanced and innovative. Jano’s team began work on a new V6 engine, which was a major departure from the traditional in-line engines that were commonly used at the time. The new engine was designed to be more compact and lightweight and featured an all-aluminum construction. In addition to the V6 engine, the model also featured a transaxle, which combined the gearbox, clutch, and differential into one unit. This helped to improve the vehicle’s weight distribution and contributed to its excellent handling. In 1950, the Aurelia made its debut at the Turin Motor Show where it quickly gained popularity. Its sophisticated technology, refined design, and exceptional performance impressed both critics and enthusiasts alike. The car was manufactured in several different body styles, such as a four-door saloon, a two-door GT coupe, a spider, and a convertible, over the following eight years. While production ceased in 1958, the Aurelia remains highly regarded as one of the most significant cars of the 1950s and one of Lancia’s finest creations.

The 1951 model year

Source: Hagerty for agents

The 1951 edition featured a 1.8-liter V6 engine, which was the world’s first production V6 engine. The engine was designed by Francesco de Virgilio and was made of aluminum alloy to keep the weight down. It had a top power output of 68 horsepower and a top speed of around 90 mph. It was mated to a four-speed manual transaxle, which combined the gearbox, clutch, and differential into one unit, providing optimal weight distribution and excellent handling. The vehicle’s body was made of steel and featured unitary construction, which was a revolutionary technique at the time. The suspension was independent all around, with wishbones and coil springs at the front, and a De Dion tube at the rear. The brakes were inboard at the rear, which helped to reduce unsprung weight and improve handling.

The interior of the 1951 Lancia Aurelia was luxurious and well-appointed: the seats were made of leather and the dashboard – of wood. The vehicle featured a variety of advanced features such as an adjustable steering wheel and a radio. Overall, the 1951 edition was elegant and modern, with clean lines and a spacious cabin. A technologically advanced Aurelia with a V6 engine, transaxle, unitary body construction, and inboard rear brakes turned into a luxury automobile with advanced features and an elegant interior that was widely praised for its excellent performance and handling becoming one of the most important automobiles of the 1950s.

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Source: Mecanicus

The 1951 version also served practical purposes. A taxi version was available and utilized in some Italian cities, as well as by the Italian police force as a patrol vehicle, thanks to its advanced technology and impressive performance. Additionally, the 1951 Lancia Aurelia received acclaim for its racing capabilities and proved to be a successful race automobile. The 1951 version even competed in the renowned Mille Miglia endurance race and secured a second-place finish.

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Lancia Aurelia was one of the first mass-produced Italian models in the post-war years. The car was the embodiment of elegance and the brand’s style epitome for the future years.

Source: Silodrome

Lancia’s golden age began in 1950 with the introduction of the Aurelia, which was, in fact, one of the first mass-produced models in the post-war period. The design was done by talented engineer Vittorio Jano from Alfa Romeo at the Pininfarina auto studio.  The vehicle became the epitome of elegance and style and went on sale in 1950. The attractive exterior, which fascinated the public, was not its only advantage. The main advantage was its technical part. The US market was one of the main directions for export. Moreover, American buyers welcomed the model warmly: it quickly became the favorite of all European sports car enthusiasts, competing with native Ford Thunderbird and Chevrolet Corvette.

The origins

Source: Curbside Classic

The Italian automaker company Lancia had a hard time in the first years after the Second World War, like all automakers, especially from Germany’s allied countries. Later, the Italian auto industry began to recover. Interestingly, the idea of ​​creating Aurelia emerged during the Second World War. The company first intended to develop a front-wheel drive version,  however, later abandoned this idea. A similar situation happened with cylinder choice: the 4- and 8-cylinders versions were forgotten in favor of a 6-cylinder engine. Remarkably, the car became the company’s late founder’s son –  Gianni Lancia’s first project. The new car received a self-supporting body, similar to the 1923 Lambda model, developed by a famous racing vehicle designer Vittorio Jano. The technical part, particularly the transmission, was developed by Francesco de Virgilio. The newly created vehicle became the world’s first V6 series, reviving the company’s image in the automobile industry.  Its name paid a tribute to the Italian roots, emphasizing its origin: it was named after one of the local roads which Italians traditionally traveled from Rome to Pisa. By launching this new model, Lancia once again declared itself as a strong player in the automotive industry.

The 1950 model year

Source: Stone Forest

The Lancia Aurelia of 1950 release was the first mass-produced model in automotive history, which received a V6 engine with aluminum structural elements, a central camshaft, and spherical combustion chambers. Sure, this was a specific choice, taking into account the applied technical solutions: there was one camshaft for two rows of cylinders, integrated cylinder valves, a 60-degree bank angle, and hemispherical combustion chambers. There were several upgrades over the years of production (from 1950 to 1958) when the working volume was increased from 1.8 liters to 2.5 liters. It was done, first of all, for compensating the possible loss of dynamics for heavier modifications. The 1950 model got another innovation: a camshaft-rotate valve lifter made of light alloys. The cylinder head was shortened compared with previous automobiles, giving it greater rigidity. Moreover, Weber’s two-chamber carburetor was located between the blocks. A four-speed manual transmission was equipped with a unique transaxle system, which allowed the gearbox and main gear in one housing. This made the automobile unique and different from the other vehicles of its time. The decision to place the gearbox as a single unit with the rear axle was also very innovative. In this case, the gears were switched by a lever located on the steering column. Only in the last years of production, this approach was abandoned.

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The first model had two versions – a convertible and a sedan. They had a common power plant, but for the convertible version, a special elongated chassis was used. Remarkably, the first convertible was not a mass-produced vehicle: only 256 copies were released. These cars were the brainchildren of talented Pinin Farina, who made no two identical automobiles from this series.

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