Lancia Aurelia B20

The Lancia Aurelia B20 GT by Maggiora was a special-bodied version of the Aurelia B20, built in 1955 by Carrozzeria Maggiora. It was based on one of Lancia’s most important postwar models, the Aurelia, introduced in 1950 and developed in several saloon, coupé, spider and competition variants. The B20 GT was the coupé version of the Aurelia range and became one of the reference points for the Italian gran turismo formula. Its standard body was already compact, aerodynamic and well proportioned, with a fastback roofline and clean surfaces. The Maggiora-bodied example followed the same technical base but received specific coachwork, adding another chapter to the long tradition of Aurelia chassis supplied to independent Italian bodybuilders. Mechanically, the car used Lancia’s V6 engine, one of the first series-production V6 units in automotive history. By 1955, the B20 was fitted with the later 2.5-litre V6, paired with a rear-mounted transaxle gearbox. This layout helped improve weight distribution and gave the car precise road behaviour for the period. The front suspension was independent, while later B20 series adopted a de Dion rear axle, improving stability compared with the early independent rear layout. The Aurelia used unitary construction on standard models, but special-bodied versions required specific adaptation by the coachbuilder. Maggiora’s work focused on body construction, proportions and finish, while retaining the Lancia mechanical package. The design reflected the mid-1950s Italian gran turismo style: a low roofline, soft wings, balanced cabin position and restrained detailing. The result was a refined coupé intended for fast road use rather than pure competition.