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THE ITALIAN COACHBUILDER SITE

Lancia Thema Coupé

1986Coachwork by Boneschi

THE VEHICLE AT A GLANCE

Model dossier

Production period
1986
Body style
Coupé
Engine
V6
Type
Prototype
Production
1

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 Thema Coupé One-off, born from the Thema platform’s first series and shortened, is a fascinating specimen in automotive history. Crafted by the skilled hands of Carrozzeria Boneschi, this unique creation stands as a testament to the daring and innovative spirit of automotive design. However, despite its distinctive aesthetic and high collectible value, it never entered mass production, remaining a singular masterpiece. Upon first glance, the Carrozzeria Boneschi bodywork presents a striking departure from the conventional style of the Lancia sedan. With daring aesthetic changes, it showcases a typical style exercise that captivates the eye and challenges traditional design norms. The fusion of bold colors and sharp lines creates an unconventional yet captivating allure, setting it apart from its contemporaries. One of the most notable features of the Lancia Thema Coupé One-off is its unique color scheme. Eschewing traditional sobriety, the vibrant hues add a sense of dynamism and flair to the vehicle’s exterior, further accentuating its individuality. However, while the colors may be bold, they are not garish, striking a delicate balance between audacity and elegance. The Carrozzeria Boneschi’s interpretation of the Thema platform extends beyond mere aesthetic enhancements. The shortened body and distinctive rear glass tail contribute to its unique silhouette, creating a sense of dynamism and motion even when stationary. However, some critics argue that the cut is too abrupt and fails to seamlessly integrate with the overall design, detracting from its overall coherence. Despite its undeniable charm and collectible value, the Lancia Thema Coupé One-off by Carrozzeria Boneschi faced challenges in finding commercial success. The prototype, though admired by enthusiasts and collectors alike, never saw mass production, relegating it to the realm of automotive rarities. Nonetheless, its significance in the annals of automotive design remains undiminished, serving as a testament to the boundless creativity and innovation that define the industry. In 2018, a piece of automotive history was exchanged on eBay when the Lancia Thema Coupé One-off found a new owner for €5000. While its journey may have been unconventional, its legacy endures as a symbol of innovation and craftsmanship in the world of automotive design.

02 / TECHNICAL IDENTITY

Specifications & construction

Production & construction

Production
1
Production type
Prototype

Engine & performance

Engine configuration
V6

Design & manufacture

Coachbuilder / Body Builder · Documented
Boneschi
Manufacturer · Documented
Lancia

06 / EVENTS & AWARDS

Events & awards

The Boneschi two-door Lancia Thema prototype, known as Gazzella/Gazella, is independently documented as a unique 1986 prototype and Turin-show car. It never entered series production. A later 2018 online offering is an asking/listing event only, not evidence of a completed sale. General · Unreviewed
Date
1986
Chassis
General

08 / FROM THE ARCHIVE

Archive

References held in the vehicle dossier. Their inclusion does not establish that every historical claim has been independently verified.

ReferenceSource type
Lancia Thema Club Italia — Versioni Speciali www.lanciathema.it Marque club reference
Automoto.it — Lancia Thema Coupé Boneschi www.automoto.it Automotive periodical

10 / CONNECTED HISTORY

Timeline

Chronological history1 dated records
  1. Unassigned chassis · Event

    The Boneschi two-door Lancia Thema prototype, known as Gazzella/Gazella, is independently documented as a unique 1986 prototype and Turin-show car. It never entered series production. A later 2018 online offering is an asking/listing event only, not evidence of a completed sale.

THE CONVERSATION

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