Description
The Lancia Aurelia B20 was presented at the Turin Motor Show on April 2, 1951 and
heralded the introduction of an entirely new format, the 2+2 Grand Tourer. Its
engine - the first V6 in automotive history - was created by the brilliant mind of
designer Francesco De Virgilio.
The B20 also took part in several editions of the "most beautiful race in the world"
the 1000 Miglia. Its direct rivals included the Alfa Romeo 1900 Sprint, the Fiat 8V
Zagato, the Bristol 401 and the Aston Martin DB2. The Aurelia was the first Lancia
model to achieve remarkable success in international motor sport, establishing a
formidable reputation in road and track racing.
Today, the Lancia Aurelia B20 remains a quintessential GT car that has retained its
classic and timeless appeal.
This Aurelia passed through the KCA workshops of Giancarlo Cappa, the
legendary master of Lancia restoration, in 1980, as the plaque on the front grille
demonstrates.
The lead seals around the steering column show that this Aurelia has already
participated twice in the Vermicino-Rocca di Papa event, in 1980 and 1981 respectively.
This Lancia is as well eligible for the very exclusive rally 1000 Miglia and for most historic events.
In the "Grigio Metallizzato" livery, this B20S (S for sinistra, left-hand drive) is
equipped with a 2. 5 litre V6 engine developing 118 bhp.
In order to be perfect, some minors bodywork detects it will be reworked before
sale.
At the wheel, it is elegance and refinement in the Italian style. When you start the
car, the V6 roars and you understand that this car has a strong personality
With the heavy steering at a standstill, you don't expect such precision and agility
from the car on the road. The car is very pleasant at low revs and as soon as the
engine drops over 3, 500 rpm, the Lancia's behaviour changes and becomes much
more aggressive. It becomes clear why it was entered in the 1000 Miglia in the
1950s.
