Nardi Raggio Azzurro II

The Nardi Raggio Azzurro II is a striking and unique vehicle built on a heavily modified 4th Series Lancia Aurelia B24 Spider chassis and is the 2nd Raggio Azzurro conecpt car after the first. The car debuted at the Turin Motor Show in 1958 and later at the New York Motor Show. This one-off car features coachwork designed by Giovanni Michelotti, one of Italy’s most celebrated designers, and was hand-built in steel by Vignale, known for their craftsmanship and attention to detail. One of the most distinctive features of the car is its blue Perspex™ roof, which can slide in tracks to provide ventilation to the cabin, combining aesthetic flair with practical functionality. Under the hood, the Raggio Azzurro II is powered by a Lancia Aurelia B20 engine that was significantly enhanced by Nardi, a respected name in Italian tuning. Nardi’s updates include a new camshaft, a cast alloy air scoop, and a specially designed intake manifold that accommodates a double-throat Weber 40DCZ5 carburetor. This 2.5-liter, 60-degree V6 engine has a bore and stroke of 78mm x 85.5mm, producing approximately 140 horsepower—a substantial output for the period. The power is transmitted through a Nardi-designed floor-mounted gear shift and a rear-mounted 4-speed Aurelia B20 transaxle. In a testament to thoughtful engineering, the car also features inboard drum brakes, which help reduce unsprung weight for improved handling. The suspension setup of the Nardi Raggio Azzurro II is both advanced and well-balanced. The car is equipped with independent front suspension, employing vertical pillars, while the rear suspension features a de Dion layout, with the axle tube supported on conventional half-elliptic leaf springs and stabilized laterally by a Panhard rod. This configuration ensured responsive handling and a comfortable ride. Another standout feature is the set of special 400 mm wire wheels, specially commissioned from Borrani, featuring a 68-spoke design with knockoff hubs. These exquisite wheels were later offered as an option for the Lancia Aurelia Spiders, further enhancing the car’s allure. The Nardi Raggio Azzurro II remains a unique piece of automotive history, representing an era of bespoke craftsmanship and Italian engineering excellence.