1955 Lancia Aurelia B24S Spider America by Pinin Farina

A Story of A Lancia Aurelia Spider

First unveiled at the 1955 Brussels Motor Show, the Lancia Aurelia Spider epitomized innovation and elegance in automotive engineering. It marked a turning point for the automotive world, powered by the globe’s first production aluminum V6 engine, a feature that set it apart as a technological marvel of its time. This engine, paired with other advanced features like independent suspension and inboard rear brakes, underscored Lancia’s reputation for cutting-edge design and engineering. These innovations not only elevated the Aurelia’s performance but also positioned it as a forerunner in the luxury sports car market, influencing automotive design for decades to come.

Among the notable examples of this iconic model is chassis no. 1044, a car with a rich and well-documented history that reflects its journey across continents and through the hands of discerning enthusiasts. Sold through New York City importer Hoffman Motorcars, this specific Aurelia’s first owner remains unknown, but it is clear the car remained in their possession until 1963. That year, it was purchased by Eunice Griffith of Illinois, marking the beginning of an extraordinary three-decade stewardship. Griffith cherished the car, preserving its charm and integrity for over 30 years, a testament to the enduring appeal of Lancia’s design and engineering.

In 1995, after parting ways with Griffith, the Aurelia embarked on a new chapter, finding its way to Raymon Milo, a well-known Los Angeles-based car dealer with a reputation for handling rare and exotic automobiles. Milo, recognizing the significance and potential of the Aurelia, facilitated its sale to Luciano Bertolero, an Italian collector and enthusiast based in Turin. For Bertolero, the car’s journey home to Italy was an opportunity to restore it to its former glory, entrusting the work to skilled craftsmen who brought the Aurelia back to life with meticulous care and attention to detail.

Following its restoration, the Aurelia returned to prominence, making a dazzling appearance at the prestigious Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance, one of the most esteemed events in the automotive world. This opportunity to showcase the car among the finest automobiles in history further cemented its legacy as an exemplar of mid-century Italian design and innovation. Its impeccable restoration and storied past captured the attention of collectors and enthusiasts alike, solidifying its place as a standout example of Lancia’s craftsmanship.

Over the years, the Aurelia Spider continued its journey, passing through the hands of several notable collectors who recognized its historical and cultural significance. Its provenance, combined with its extraordinary restoration and undeniable charm, only added to its allure. In 2022, this remarkable vehicle reached another milestone when it was offered for sale by RM Sotheby’s at their Arizona Auction. The car’s reputation and rarity culminated in an impressive sale price of $940,000, a figure that reflects its iconic status and enduring appeal to collectors worldwide.

The Lancia Aurelia Spider is more than just an automobile—it is a symbol of mid-century ingenuity and elegance. The story of chassis no. 1044 illustrates the timeless fascination with this model, from its groundbreaking debut at the Brussels Motor Show to its meticulously documented ownership history. Each phase of its life adds a layer of intrigue, from its time with Eunice Griffith in Illinois to its restoration in Italy and its celebrated appearance at Pebble Beach.

This car’s journey is a testament to the enduring legacy of the Lancia brand and the Aurelia Spider’s status as a masterpiece of engineering and design. Whether gracing the lawn at Pebble Beach or drawing admiration at an auction, chassis no. 1044 continues to captivate enthusiasts and collectors, reminding us of a time when artistry and innovation defined the golden age of automotive design. Its remarkable sale in 2022 serves as a fitting tribute to a car that remains as desirable today as it was when it first turned heads nearly seven decades ago.

It would make its way through the hands of a few more notable collectors before finally being offered for sale by RM Sothebys at their 2022 Arizona Auction, where it sold for $940,000.