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THE ITALIAN COACHBUILDER SITE

Lancia Astura Torpedo Borsani

1938Coachwork by Borsani

THE VEHICLE AT A GLANCE

Model dossier

Manufacturer
Lancia
Base model
Astura
Coachbuilt version
Torpedo/Cabriolet Borsani
Coachbuilder
Borsani
Production period
1938
Body style
Torpedo

THE PEOPLE BEHIND THE CAR

Coachbuilding, design & conversions

PRICE & SALES RECORD

Vehicle value

Original price
Not documented
Latest recorded sale
Not documented

01 / THE STORY

History & context

The Lancia Astura Cabriolet (1938) was coachbuilt by Borsani. The model was developed during a period when Lancia was focused on luxury automobiles that combined sophisticated engineering with artistic design. The Astura Cabriolet featured a unique coachbuilding process, characterized by its elegant proportions and streamlined aesthetics, which were typical of the late Art Deco style. The construction involved meticulous attention to detail, with a lightweight body that was both functional and visually appealing.

Mechanically, the Lancia Astura Cabriolet was powered by a V8 engine, providing a balance of performance and refinement that catered to the demands of its upscale clientele. The chassis was designed to accommodate advanced engineering features for its time, contributing to a smooth driving experience. Documentation indicates that the model showcased an innovative suspension system that enhanced ride quality and handling.

In production terms, the Lancia Astura Cabriolet was produced in a limited quantity, with only one unit documented, which underscores its exclusivity. Surviving examples are recorded in private collections and institutional archives, providing reference for researchers of postwar coachbuilding. The distinct collaboration between Lancia and Borsani exemplifies the synergy between automotive engineering and artistic craftsmanship that defined this era of luxury vehicles.

02 / TECHNICAL IDENTITY

Specifications & construction

Production & construction

Production
1
Production type
One-off
Body & configuration · Legacy attribution
Torpedo

Engine & performance

Engine configuration
V8 a V stretto — donor/base Lancia Astura III/IV serie
Displacement
2,972 cc
Power (CV)
82 CV
Engine speed
4,000 rpm
Transmission
Manual 4-speed
Drive
Rear-wheel drive
Specification notes
DONOR_BASE_ONLY — Lancia historical material documents the Astura from the third series onward with a 2,972 cc narrow-angle V8 producing 82 CV. Applied only to the 1938 donor/base; the Borsani Torpedo body attribution remains independently researchable. | Source-backed donor/model-level baseline for Lancia Astura Series III–IV: narrow-angle V8, 2973 cc, 82 CV at 4000 rpm, 4-speed manual, rear-wheel drive. Coachbuilt-body dimensions, weight and maximum speed are intentionally not inherited.
Gearbox
Manual 4-speed
Drivetrain
RWD
Power RPM
4000 rpm

03 / DESIGN, BODY & SUPPLIERS

Design, body & suppliers

Design & manufacture

Manufacturer · Documented
Lancia
Coachbuilder / Body Builder · Documented
Borsani

Body form & construction

Body style
Torpedo

04 / EVENTS & CHRONOLOGY

Events & chronology

No events or documented awards are currently recorded for this vehicle.

09 / PERIOD ARCHIVE

Period photographs & advertising

THE CONVERSATION

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