Lancia Appia Lusso

The Lancia Appia Lusso by Vignale debuted at the 1958 Turin Motor Show, showcasing a sleek 2-door sedan built upon the Appia chassis. Drawing inspiration from the favorable response to the 1957 convertible, Vignale crafted a design that exuded elegance and sophistication. Despite its unveiling in 1958, this new model didn’t hit the market until the subsequent year. Embraced by enthusiasts and incorporated into Lancia’s official price list and sales network, the “Appia Lusso” epitomized both speed and comfort. Boasting a top speed of 140 km/h, it provided a smooth ride for its occupants while accommodating four individuals along with their luggage. However, exclusivity came at a cost, with the “Lusso” commanding a premium price starting at approximately 1,800,000 lire almost double the cost of the standard Appia. Production of the Lancia Appia Lusso spanned from its debut until 1961, yielding a mere 478 units. The Lancia Appia Lusso by Vignale boasted a front-mounted 4-cylinder engine in a V configuration, with a displacement of 1089.51 cm³. Initially delivering 54 HP at 5200 rpm (increased to 60 HP at 5400 rpm from May 1960 onwards), the engine featured overhead valves, ensuring efficient performance. Its body style was that of a 2-door sedan, accommodating four passengers comfortably. Built upon a flat platform chassis, the Lusso featured independent front wheel suspension and a rear rigid axle setup. Transmission-wise, power was delivered to the rear wheels through a 4-speed gearbox with a reverse gear option, facilitating smooth shifts and efficient power transfer. Its dimensions measured a wheelbase of 251 cm, length of 434.0 cm, width of 152.0 cm, and a curb weight of 965 kg. With a maximum speed of 140 km/h initially (increased to 142 km/h from May 1960), the Appia Lusso offered a balanced blend of performance and comfort. The introduction of updates in May/June 1960 across all sporty Appia derivatives, including this sedan, boosted power and speed, enhancing its driving dynamics and appeal. Despite its acclaim, the Appia Lusso was discontinued in July 1961, marking the end of its production run and its removal from the price lists. However, its legacy as one of the rarest and most desired Appia models endures among enthusiasts and collectors alike. Its limited availability rendered it one of the most coveted and rare Appia models ever produced, further elevating its desirability among collectors and enthusiasts alike.