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THE ITALIAN COACHBUILDER SITE

Itala 61 Torpedo Bateau

1926Coachwork by Ghia

THE VEHICLE AT A GLANCE

Model dossier

Production period
1926
Body style
Torpedo
Type
Limited

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 Itala 61 (1926) was coachbuilt by Ghia. During this period, Itala was known for its innovative approaches to design and engineering, contributing to the evolution of automobile aesthetics and functionality. The coachbuilding process for the 61 involved careful attention to proportions and construction methods that aligned with the stylistic trends of the 1920s, characterized by streamlined forms and luxurious detailing.

Mechanically, the Itala 61 was equipped with a robust chassis that facilitated various configurations, enhancing its adaptability for performance and comfort. Documentation indicates that the vehicle featured a powerful engine, powered by a V8 engine, which contributed to its reputation for reliability and driving pleasure. The suspension system was designed to support both performance and ride quality, reflecting the brand’s commitment to engineering excellence.

Production of the Itala 61 was limited, with specific chassis numbering assigned to each vehicle, ensuring traceability and authenticity for collectors and historians alike. Surviving examples are recorded in private collections and institutional archives, providing reference for researchers of postwar coachbuilding. The Itala 61 Torpedo Bateau Ghia remains a noteworthy example of collaborative efforts between manufacturers and coachbuilders, exemplifying the rich history of automotive design during this era.

02 / TECHNICAL IDENTITY

Specifications & construction

Production & construction

Production type
Limited
Production notes
CI's 1926 Milan event and Ghia archive explicitly preserve the Itala 61 Torpedo Bateau by Ghia. A surviving 1926 Itala Tipo 61 with Ghia coachwork independently corroborates the Itala/Ghia relationship, but its sport-coupé body is not transferred to this Torpedo Bateau route. Production count and designer remain open. NO_AUTO_INHERIT.
Body & configuration · Legacy attribution
Torpedo

Engine & performance

Specification notes
Confidence detail moved from confidence: medium-low

Design & manufacture

Coachbuilder / Body Builder · Documented
Ghia
Manufacturer · Documented
Itala

06 / EVENTS & AWARDS

Events & awards

No events or documented awards are currently recorded for this vehicle.

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
Carrozzieri Italiani — Milano Auto Salon 1926 www.carrozzieri-italiani.com Event archive
Carrozzieri Italiani — Ghia Car Archive www.carrozzieri-italiani.com Coachbuilder archive
Car & Classic — 1926 Itala Tipo 61 with Ghia coachwork www.carandclassic.com Surviving vehicle market history

THE CONVERSATION

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