Lancia D24

The Lancia D24, introduced in 1953, represented a significant evolution from its predecessor, the D23. Designed by Pininfarina, it retained the fundamental characteristics of its predecessor: a multi-tubular frame chassis, double wishbones/De Dion suspension, transaxle transmission, and a barchetta body style. However, the D24 was powered by a larger 3,284 cc V6 engine, which produced 265 hp (198 kW), enabling the car to reach a top speed of 260 km/h (162 mph). The D24 achieved notable successes in racing during the 1953 and 1954 seasons. Some of its most significant victories include Juan Manuel Fangio’s triumph in the 1953 Carrera Panamericana, Alberto Ascari’s win in the 1954 Mille Miglia, and Piero Taruffi’s victories in the 1954 Targa Florio and Giro di Sicilia. In 1955, the President of Lancia presented a D24 to President Juan Perón of Argentina, who raced it in the national blue and yellow livery. The car remained in Argentina until the 1980s when it was returned to Italy. It underwent restoration by Count Vittorio Zanon during this period. The Lancia D24’s successes in racing and its distinctive design by Pininfarina cement its place in automotive history as an iconic sports racing car of the 1950s, celebrated for its performance and elegance on the track.