Lancia Aprilia History

Production of the Aprilia commenced in February 1937 — the very month Vincenzo Lancia died — making it his last car. Developed with the Polytechnic University of Turin in a wind tunnel, the Aprilia achieved a drag coefficient of approximately 0.47, extraordinary for a production saloon of the era. Its four pillarless doors and aluminium V4 engine were hallmarks of Lancia's commitment to engineering above fashion.

Two series were produced: the first (1937–1939, 10,354 units) with a 1,352 cc V4, and the second (1939–1949, 9,728 units) with a bored-out 1,486 cc unit. A further 7,554 rolling chassis were supplied to coachbuilders, yielding a wide variety of body styles. Total production reached about 20,082 cars.