1927 Lancia Lambda Series VII Tourer

Lot details
Registration No: KMD 928
Chassis No: 16887
Mot Expiry: Oct 2008

Introduced at the 1922 Paris Salon, the Lancia Lambda was an exceptionally advanced design. Supposedly inspired by contemporary ship-building practice, its highly innovative monocoque (or chassis-less) bodyshell was reinforced via a substantial transmission tunnel and integral seatback bulkheads. While other noteworthy features included independent 'sliding pillar' front suspension (complete with hydraulic shock absorbers) and four-wheel drum brakes. Powered by a series of compact V4 SOHC engines (2119cc 49hp, 2370cc 59hp and 2568cc 69hp) allied to manual transmission, even the earliest Lambdas were reckoned to be good for 70mph. Although not marketed as a sports car, the model's excellent roadholding saw a modified version finish 4th overall on the inaugural 1927 Mille Miglia (a class-winning performance which was repeated the following year). Evolving through Nine Series, the Lambda remained in production until 1931 by which time some 13,000 had been made - though, survivors are increasingly scarce.

Finished in red over black with black upholstery, this particular example was supplied new by the Curtis Automobile Company of 18 Berkeley St, London W1 (or so the plaques nestled in its door shuts would imply). As Lancia's official British distributor - until the Italian marque established its own works at Alperton in 1928 - Curtis actively encouraged British coachbuilders to practice their art on late series Lambdas but formed a special relationship with the Albany Carriage Company of Hanwell, London W7 (who may or may not have bodied 'KMD 928'). Although, the car's early life is a mystery a surviving buff logbook shows that it was registered to Ronald Carpenter of Christchurch (Hampshire) by May 1949. Perhaps seeking a more sporting drive, the latter had A.R. Carlile of the Carberry Engineering Company convert the Lambda from a four-door to a two-door tourer (a procedure which involved shortening the wheelbase from 10ft 1in to 9ft 7in). Lighter and nimbler than before, 'KMD 928' then passed through the hands of Michael Ramsey (1955) before being acquired by past president of the Lancia Motor Club, John Borthwick (1958).

A frequent entry in Vintage Sports Car Club events during the early 1960s, news of the Lambda's exploits appeared on the pages of Motor Sport, Sporting Life, Motoring News and various VSCC Bulletins. Campaigned with similar gusto by its next keeper, John Vessey of the Lambda Consortium, the Tourer is reputed to have undergone an extensive restoration prior to being bought by T.J. Riggs (1978). Covering some 17,000 miles with its previous recorded keeper including trips to the Lake District and Borders, France, Belgium and Italy etc, 'KMD 928' was treated to an extensive engine overhaul in 1996-1997 and a replacement cylinder head five years later (amid a programme of regular maintenance). While, more recent work has seen it benefit from attention to its fuel system, front suspension, tyres, Zenith 36VH carburettor and paintwork (bills on file since April 2005 total more than £2,750). Fitted with a new battery earlier this year, the Lambda fired readily upon inspection and is reported to drive well. Widely admired at the VSCC's recent SEE RED Donington race meeting, this enchanting Lancia is offered for sale with history file (buff logbook, previous owner's journal 1990-2005, Carberry Engineering conversion drawings, press cuttings etc), various receipts and MOT certificates dating back to 1990.

PLEASE NOTE: This vehicle now has a MOT certificate valid until October 2008.