Lancia Astura Superluminosa

The Lancia Astura Superluminosa was a one-off luxury saloon designed by Mario Revelli di Beaumont and bodied by Carrozzeria Bertone in 1933. The project developed the roof concept previously introduced by Revelli under the name Luminosa. The Superluminosa used an enlarged glazed roof arrangement intended to increase natural light inside the passenger compartment. A fixed transparent panel was positioned above the front seats, while the rear section incorporated a larger opening roof. The fixed panel was probably made of glass, as flat Plexiglas sheets did not enter commercial production until 1936. The body was constructed on a Lancia Astura chassis with a wheelbase of approximately 3,330 mm. The Astura used Lancia’s narrow-angle V8 engine. Early versions had a displacement of 2,604 cc and produced approximately 72 hp at 4,000 rpm. From the third series, the engine was enlarged to 2,973 cc, increasing output to around 82 hp. The Superluminosa retained the proportions of a large formal saloon, with a long bonnet, separate front and rear wings and an enclosed passenger compartment. The roof structure was taller than that of conventional saloons and included wide glazed areas. Two spare wheels were mounted vertically at the rear. Revelli di Beaumont worked with Bertone on several experimental body and roof concepts during the early 1930s. The Superluminosa followed a similar treatment previously applied to a Fiat Ardita and formed part of his research into panoramic visibility, convertible roof systems and improved cabin lighting. The Lancia Astura Superluminosa did not enter series production. It remained a special coachbuilt example combining the Astura’s mechanical platform with an experimental glazed roof designed to provide the comfort of a closed saloon and the increased light of an open vehicle.