THE VEHICLE AT A GLANCE
Model dossier
- Manufacturer
- Lancia
- Base model
- Aprilia Berlina
- Coachbuilder
- Stabilimenti Farina
- Production period
- 1946
- Body style
- Berlina
- Designer
- Giovanni Michelotti
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 Berlina Gran Lusso was a remarkable vehicle series that epitomized the elegance and innovation of post-war automotive design. Produced by Stabilimenti Farina in the 1940s and 1950s, this series, commonly known as the “Tank” due to its distinctive aesthetic, was based on the Lancia Aprilia chassis. It was designed by Giovanni Michelotti, an iconic figure in automotive design, whose work left a significant imprint on European car styling during this era. The “Tank” design was characterized by its bold and imposing front grille, which extended prominently and gave the vehicle a unique presence. This large, pointed grille was a defining feature of the series, setting it apart from other contemporary vehicles. Complementing this were recessed front lights, further enhancing the sleek and aerodynamic profile of the cars. The combination of these elements gave the Lancia Aprilia Berlina Gran Lusso a modern, almost futuristic look for its time. The series offered a range of models, including a 4-door sedan, various cabriolets, and a flamboyant coupé. Each model exhibited the refined craftsmanship and attention to detail for which both Lancia and Stabilimenti Farina were renowned. The cabriolets and coupé, in particular, stood out with their flowing lines and luxurious interiors, appealing to clients who desired a sense of style and exclusivity in their vehicles. One notable highlight in the history of the Aprilia Berlina Gran Lusso was its participation in the 1947 Concorso d’Eleganza Pincio in Rome. This prestigious event showcased the finest examples of automotive design and engineering, and the “Tank” series was well-received, celebrated for its innovation and elegance. Overall, the Lancia Aprilia Berlina Gran Lusso series, with its avant-garde design and luxurious options, remains a symbol of post-war automotive creativity, blending the technical excellence of Lancia with the artistry and creativity of Giovanni Michelotti and Stabilimenti Farina.
02 / TECHNICAL IDENTITY
Specifications & construction
Production & construction
- Production type
- Limited
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
- Design features · Legacy attribution
- Tank
- Gearbox
- Manual 4-speed
- Drivetrain
- RWD
- Power RPM
- 4300 rpm
03 / DESIGN, BODY & SUPPLIERS
Design, body & suppliers
Design & manufacture
- Designer · Documented
- Giovanni Michelotti
- Manufacturer · Documented
- Lancia
- Coachbuilder / Body Builder · Documented
- Stabilimenti Farina
Body form & construction
- Body style
- Berlina
04 / EVENTS & CHRONOLOGY
Events & chronology
I Concorso Internazionale di Eleganza della Carrozzeria – Pincio General · From the historical archive
- Date
- 23 Jun 1947
- Chassis
- General
- Venue
- Pincio / Villa Borghese · Roma
CHRONOLOGICAL RECORD
General chronology
Chronological history1 dated records
- Unassigned chassis · Event
I Concorso Internazionale di Eleganza della Carrozzeria – Pincio
08 / GALLERY
Photo gallery 10 photographs
Show 4 more photographs Show fewer photographs
09 / PERIOD ARCHIVE
Period photographs & advertising
The period archive gallery will show historical photographs, advertisements, brochures and press images once assets, provenance and usage rights have been recorded in the masterfile.













THE CONVERSATION
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