Lancia Aprilia Barchetta Luigi Pagani

The Lancia Aprilia Barchetta Corsa by Luigi Pagani, constructed on chassis number 438-21979, was a one-off competition vehicle built in 1946. It utilized the second-series Aprilia chassis (type 438), a platform produced by Lancia between 1939 and 1949, known for its aerodynamic monocoque construction and advanced mechanical layout. The car was commissioned by Lancia dealer Luigi Beretta, with mechanical modifications by engineer Luigi Pagani and coachwork executed by Carrozzeria Riva of Merate. The chassis retained the original layout of the Aprilia, featuring fully independent front and rear suspension with transverse leaf springs and hydraulic dampers. Braking was provided by hydraulic drums at all four wheels. The engine was Lancia’s narrow-angle V4, displacing 1,486 cc. The unit was modified with an aluminum cylinder head, special manifolds, and twin Weber carburetors. Power output was increased beyond the standard 48 horsepower, reaching approximately 50 to 55 horsepower in race preparation. The gearbox was a four-speed manual, with drive transmitted to the rear axle. The coachwork was executed in lightweight aluminum, configured in the barchetta corsa style common in the immediate postwar period. The design featured a low, streamlined profile with integrated fenders, minimal windscreen, cycle-type wings, and a tapered rear tail. The interior was stripped for competition use, with exposed metal surfaces, basic instrumentation, and two bucket seats. The vehicle’s dimensions and proportions emphasized minimal frontal area and reduced weight for competitive advantage. Only one example was built. Chassis 438-21979 remains the only known instance of this specific configuration. The car was campaigned in contemporary road races, including at least one appearance in the Mille Miglia. Luigi Beretta, the original owner, is documented as the entrant and driver in period events.