This car needs someone to sort it out and drive it. When these are right, they make superb vintage rally and tour mounts
Vincenzo Lancia loved automobiles, driving and motoring competition. The delectable machines that flowed from the factory were the expression of his passion. There were many great designs pre-War: the Lambda V4 of the vintage years; the Augusta, Lancia’s first small family car; the nimble little Aprilia of the late 1930’s, a roomy economy saloon with racing standards of handling and cornering power.
The Flaminia was the first Lancia designed by Antonio Fessia and was the flagship of the range when launched in 1957. Fessia had finally broken with tradition and had discarded the vertical-coil independent front suspension in favor of wishbones. The engine was a 2.5-liter V6 driving through an aft-mounted gearbox and DeDion rear axle. In 1964, the 3C version was introduced with a 2.8-liter engine producing 152 bhp. The Flaminia remained in production until 1970.
Without doubt the most attractive coachwork on these chassis was the “Double Bubble” coupe by Zagato, of which 187 were built. They are a stunning combination of Italian machinery and cosmetic design.
This triple-carburetor Super Sport model was acquired by the present owner in 1996. Over the years work has been carried out as and when required, and copies of bills totaling over $12,000 during this ownership are now on file. Work included a complete brake overhaul, a front suspension rebuild with new ball joints and re-alignment, a new exhaust system, some rewiring, and the fitting of four new tires at a cost of $600. The fuel system was also rebuilt at this time, the front engine mounts were replaced, and air horns were fitted. The paintwork is good, despite having some age, and the interior, finished in black leather, is in good order.
We have not had the opportunity to road test the car, but we are informed that it drives well.