The Lancia Aurelia is widely regarded as the world's first genuine Gran Turismo car. It was designed by Vittorio Jano and went on sale in 1950, being in production until summer 1958. It featured an innovative V6 engine, a 60° design created by de Virgilio who was a Lancia engineer working under Jano. The engine progressed from a 1.8 L to a 2.5 L capacity and was constructed from all-alloy pushrods with an onboard camshaft, as well as a single Weber 40 carburettor.
The Aurelia included a unique rear transaxle comprising of a gearbox, clutch, differential and brakes that were mounted on the inner side. The front suspension was a sliding pillar design, although the fourth series used a de Dion tube in place of the conventional semi-trailing arms.
First series
The initial Aurelias were the B10 berlinas (sedans), powered by a 1754 cc V6 that produced 56 hp. This was followed by the B21 in 1951 with a 1991 cc 70 hp engine, as well as a two-door B20 GT coupé with a shortened wheelbase and body designed by Ghia and built by Pininfarina. The same 1991 cc engine was upgraded to 75 hp in the B20. All together, 500 cars of the first series were made.
Second series
The second series coupé received an 80 hp engine from the 1991 cc V6, increased compression ratio and revised valve positioning. Enhancements to the brakes and styling refinements like chromed bumpers instead of the aluminium type from the previous model were also included. The new dashboard featured two bigger gauges, as well as the reliable suspension from the first series. A B22 sedan model was launched in 1952 and had a hotter camshaft and dual Webers allowing for a maximum power output of 90 hp.
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