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THE ITALIAN COACHBUILDER SITE

Lancia Aprilia Cabriolet Balbo

1948Coachwork by Balbo

THE VEHICLE AT A GLANCE

Model dossier

Manufacturer
Lancia
Base model
Aprilia Cabriolet
Coachbuilder
Balbo
Production period
1948
Body style
Cabriolet

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 Cabriolet Balbo is a beautiful example of post-war Italian automotive design, crafted by the renowned Carrozzeria Balbo. Probably a one-off, this model stands out for its elegant yet innovative approach to styling, particularly with the introduction of the “ponton” line. One of the defining features of this cabriolet is the high, sweeping line that connects the front mudguard to the rear, seamlessly integrating the mudguards into the overall bodywork. This design element was an early precursor to the “ponton” style, which would become a significant trend in automotive design in the years that followed. The integration of the mudguards into the bodywork not only enhances the car’s aesthetic appeal but also contributes to its smooth, fluid lines. The Lancia Aprilia Cabriolet Balbo reflects the elegance and refinement that were central to Italian design in the 1940s and 1950s, while simultaneously pushing the boundaries of what was considered innovative at the time. Carrozzeria Balbo’s work on this cabriolet perfectly captures the spirit of the era—blending traditional craftsmanship with forward-thinking design principles. The Lancia Aprilia Cabriolet remains an iconic representation of Italian luxury, coachwork and innovation, and its bespoke design continues to be admired by automotive enthusiasts today.

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
Gearbox
Manual 4-speed
Drivetrain
RWD
Power RPM
4300 rpm

03 / DESIGN, BODY & SUPPLIERS

Design, body & suppliers

Design & manufacture

Designer · Documented
Giovanni Michelotti
Coachbuilder / Body Builder · Documented
Balbo
Manufacturer · Documented
Lancia

Body form & construction

Body style
Cabriolet

04 / EVENTS & CHRONOLOGY

Events & chronology

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

09 / PERIOD ARCHIVE

Period photographs & advertising

THE CONVERSATION

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