Lot details Registration No: BS 9967 Chassis No: 20371 Mot Expiry: May 2007
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 grey over black with black upholstery, this particular example is variously described by the vendor as being in "fair" (paintwork, interior trim), "good" (chassis, bodywork), "all working" (electrical equipment), "very good" (2500cc engine, four-speed manual gearbox) or "as new" (tyres) condition. Supplied new via Lancia's London Works (or so a dashboard plaque would imply), chassis '20371' migrated to Niles, Michigan during the 1960s. Remaining Stateside until last year, it is thought to have never undergone a full restoration (though, it has naturally been subject to various running repairs including an engine rebuild in the late 1990s). Sporting twin rear-mounted spare wheels, this appealing Lambda is offered for sale with MOT certificate and historic class (free) road tax valid until May 2007.
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