Lancia could be likened to Italy's answer to Citroën. They were a company that introduced a series of firsts in terms of automotive technology and always marched to the beat of a different drum. Only five years after the end of World War II, the Aurelia was released. This was a remarkably advanced vehicle that included the first production V6 engine, an innovative rear mounted transaxle with inboard brakes and radial tires. Today, these are extremely rare cars that are under appreciated for not only their pioneering technical merits but racing heritage. This example for sale outside of Philadelphia is an older restoration but is in good cosmetic and mechanical condition.
One of approximately 265 cars originally built and one of only a handful still known to exist in its original Pinninfarina alloy body work. No two cars were finished exactly the same and all were built to order. Finished in a dark blue over terracotta colored interior with gray carpets and beige top. The car is matching numbers according to the previous owner who purchased the car in 2005 from Auto Classic in Turin, Italy. Prior, the car was owned by the same family for over 20 years. During that ownership it was restored, then sold as part of the estate in 2004/2005. This car is an example of an older restoration (approximately 18-20 years old) and was completed to a very high standard. While the car currently lacks appropriate documentation as to its owner/restoration history (we are currently researching this further) it is evident through thorough inspection that the car is very correct and has been well cared for.
The car is currently up to date with new brakes, clutch, and transmission input shaft seal. Cosmetically this car has seen a complete restoration, and has aged nicely to that of a 2- driver. The body is 100% straight and corrosion free with those imperfections one would assume in a 20 year old paint job. There are a few blemishes here and there, but nothing of major concern. The chrome is all there with proper stampings and has recently been replated. All chrome inserts, emblems and original badges and bits are present. The body is straight with excellent hood, door, and trunk gaps. The wheel covers are in nice shape as well. The top appears to also be the same vintage as the restoration but is in no need of attention either, it's excellent. All windows appear to be original and crack/fade free. The rubber molding is showing its age in spots and could use replacing if deemed necessary but ultimately can still be enjoyed the way it is. The interior cosmetics are consistent with the exterior; they show moderate use but are in excellent condition with plush leather both front and rear with exceptional fit and finish throughout. Dash is complete including the original Condor radio; everything is in excellent condition with very nice patina. The interior includes many original pieces including an ashtray behind the front bench. Door jams are free of any paint chipping or related blemishes, door open/close is flawless. All interior bits work appropriately, all gauges work, windows go up and down etc... The trunk is clean and consistent with the rest of the car. Again, no rust or issues in the trunk.
Mechanically this car is completely up to date with new clutch, brakes, and seals where needed, as well as a complete tune up to run very well. It is believed that this examples Aurelia V6 (B10 series with 56 HP) did receive a complete rebuild at time of restoration, as evident by its superb running condition. The undercarriage shows no issues and is very straight and correct. Overall everything is in excellent order, appears to be up to date with nothing out of place, very nice floors and chassis rails with no issues. The car runs, drives, shifts and stops without any issues; all lights are in working order. Tires are still very usable and are free of any major rot. Overall this is a very rare opportunity to own a 1950 Lancia B50 Cabriolet in excellent driver quality condition. A comprehensive detail has been completed inside and out and underneath to ensure a turnkey opportunity for any collector. Included in the sale is an original color sales brochure and top cover.
While not a concours example, I always appreciate cars from this era that appear to have been used and enjoyed, rather than being locked away in a museum or collection. The asking price precludes most normal collectors from enjoying this classic, but it's nice to see such a complete example of a forward thinking vehicle on these shores.
-Paul
