THE VEHICLE AT A GLANCE
Model dossier
- Manufacturer
- Lancia
- Base model
- Aprilia Cabriolet
- Coachbuilder
- Stabilimenti Farina
- 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 This protective shield was originally designed to clear debris from railway tracks and symbolizes a fusion of historical reference with contemporary design.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
07 / THE VEHICLE IN DETAIL
Photo gallery 5 photographs
08 / FROM THE ARCHIVE
Archive
References held in the vehicle dossier. Their inclusion does not establish that every historical claim has been independently verified.
| Reference | Source type |
|---|---|
| MAUTO — Storia, tecnica e stile Lancia Aprilia www.museoauto.com | Museum technical history |













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