Beschreibung:

Produced between 1937 and 1949 the Lancia Aprilia was years ahead of its time. The first series was produced between 1937 and 1939 featuring a 1352cc engine with the second series being produced between 1939 and 1949 with an increased engine size of 1486cc. Also offered were the Lusso and Lungo models based upon the second series Aprilia. Designed in a wind tunnel, the all monocoque construction demonstrated a record low drag coefficient of only 0.47. This was one of Vincenzo Lancia's last designs as he sadly passed away only one month prior to commencement of production in February 1937. The specification included four pillarless doors, independent suspension all around, hydraulic brakes, sliding pillar front suspension and trailing arm rear suspension with a transverse leaf spring. Power was by the jewel-like 1352cc, V4 engine that featured hemispherical combustion chambers, duralumin conrods and an aluminium cylinder block. The mix of good aerodynamic and engine design produced a motorcar that could seat up to five in comfort and also provided excellent speed and economy for the period. On offer today is a 1938 first series righthand drive example believed to have been originally supplied in the UK by Lancia of Alperton. It is understood that in its early life, this Aprilia spent time in southern England. It is also known to have been in Edinburgh during the 1950's and spent a large part of its life in Scotland. It is interesting to note that this little car drove from Hull in England to Geneva, Switzerland in 2008. It is understood from the vendor that restoration works were carried out between 2000 and 2002 with more contemporary type indicators have been fitted to enhance safety in this modern world; the semaphore indicators still remain fitted but requires adjustment to operate. The bodywork is all in good order with the main structure of the car reported as excellent. The pillarless construction makes entry and exit easy especially for the rear seat passengers with details to the coachwork including louvred bonnet, alloy door handles and window trims; all of which are standard items. It is reported to drive well with good oil pressure on start when cold as well as hot. The gearbox, being a non-synchromesh type, became a delight to use once warmed up; a common trait in this model of Lancia. There is no fuel gauge instrument; however, there is a fuel tank dipstick that is present and correct. Elsewhere inside the Aprilia, you may find the quaint rear window blind that is operated by a cord by either the driver or passenger and at the front there are two tinted Perspex sunvisors. The rear courtesy lights are pure art deco. The interior trim is covered in grey cloth with wool headlining above. The Michelin X tyres are all in good order and a new battery has been recently fitted. For ease of servicing, a spin on oil filter conversion has been fitted and a recent oil change has been carried out. The light blue coachwork accentuates the lines of this very pretty Lancia motorcar. With a recent MoT test certificate valid until January 2013 and Historic road fund licence valid until the end of December 2012, she is able to be driven away and enjoyed immediately.