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THE ITALIAN COACHBUILDER SITE

Lancia Aprilia Cabriolet

1947Coachwork by Stabilimenti Farina

THE VEHICLE AT A GLANCE

Model dossier

Manufacturer
Lancia
Base model
Aprilia Cabriolet
Production period
1947
Body style
Cabriolet
Engine
V4
Type
One-off
Production
1
Displacement
1,486 cc
Power
48 CV

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 Aprilia Cabriolet Tank Style, created by Stabilimenti Farina and designed by Giovanni Michelotti, represents an audacious leap in automotive design from the post-war period. Part of the Tank Style series, this model is built upon the Lancia Aprilia chassis and is emblematic of a unique approach to car design that sought to defy traditional norms. Unveiled in a period ripe for experimentation and change, the Tank Style series stood out with its squat and low-slung profiles, which made a striking departure from the more conventional car designs of the time. The Lancia Aprilia Cabriolet, like its Tank Style siblings, embodied a bold vision of innovation and style. The design of the Tank Style Cabriolet is notably characterized by its front grille, which combines elements of classical and industrial aesthetics. The grille’s stylized appearance evokes imagery of Greek helmets, paying homage to ancient design motifs while integrating modern elements. This archaeo-futuristic approach not only reflects Michelotti’s creative ambition but also introduces a new visual language to automotive design. Adding to its distinctive look, the grille bears a resemblance to the “Cowcatcher” used on steam locomotives. This protective shield was originally designed to clear debris from railway tracks and symbolizes a fusion of historical reference with contemporary design. Such a feature underscores the Tank Style’s fascination with both historical and futuristic themes. The Tank Style series included various body styles, such as sedans, cabriolets, and coupes, all presented in flamboyant and visually striking styles. Each model was crafted to amaze and captivate, reflecting a period of significant change and creativity in automotive design. The Lancia Aprilia Cabriolet Tank Style, with its bold aesthetics and innovative features, remains a testament to Giovanni Michelotti’s visionary approach and Stabilimenti Farina’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of design.

02 / TECHNICAL IDENTITY

Specifications & construction

Production & construction

Production
1
Production type
One-off

Engine & performance

Engine configuration
V4
Displacement
1,486 cc
Power (CV)
48 CV
Engine speed
4,300 rpm
Transmission
Manual 4-speed
Drive
Rear-wheel drive

Design & manufacture

Designer · Documented
Giovanni Michelotti
Manufacturer · Documented
Lancia
Coachbuilder / Body Builder · Documented
Stabilimenti Farina
Design features · Legacy attribution
Tank

06 / EVENTS & AWARDS

Events & awards

Le due giornate dell'Eleganza, della Tecnica, dell'Arte dell'Automobile – Roma Pincio General · From the historical archive
Date
29 May 1948
Chassis
General
Venue
Piazzale del Pincio · Roma

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
MAUTO — Storia, tecnica e stile Lancia Aprilia www.museoauto.com Museum technical history

10 / CONNECTED HISTORY

Timeline

Chronological history1 dated records

THE CONVERSATION

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