1955 Lancia Aurelia B12

Background:

Claiming that Lancia’s finest cars were always its saloons might sound like received wisdom—but true marque aficionados have long known it to be fact. And few models prove the point better than the Aurelia B12: the final—and arguably finest—iteration of the four-door Aurelia.

Elegant in its understated design and quietly innovative under the skin, the B12 showcased Lancia’s technical ambition. It featured the world’s first production V6 engine, along with the later deDion rear suspension—another first—inboard rear brakes, and a transaxle layout that delivered both balance and sophistication. Despite its generous proportions, the B12 tipped the scales at just 1240kg with a perfect 50:50 weight distribution, giving it poised, neutral handling that neither overloads the steering nor provokes wayward tail action.

The driving experience is as refined as the engineering. The steering is responsive and well-weighted, the gearing intelligently tall. The 2.3-litre V6 is smooth and elastic, producing a respectable 117lb ft of torque at just 2,900rpm—enough to push the B12 to 80mph in third gear and cruise comfortably at that speed in top. It’s a saloon that doesn’t shout but instead delivers its brilliance with quiet confidence.

The Car

Offered for sale is a remarkably original and beautifully preserved example of one of Italy’s great mid-century masterpieces.

Finished in Blu Scuro over light grey fabric upholstery, this Lancia Aurelia exudes the understated elegance that defined Italian design in the 1950s. Originally delivered to a Swiss gentleman, the car saw minimal use during its early years. It later passed into the hands of an Italian prince, who continued the tradition of sparing use. Eventually acquired by its current custodian, the car was driven back to the UK and now shows just over 22,700 miles on the odometer. The speedometers were swapped when the metric speedometer was showing just 27,533km and the replacement UK speedometer showed 21,183 miles.

The car presents in highly original condition. Paint depth readings confirm the authenticity of the Blu Scuro finish, which remains in impressively good shape, with only minor signs of wear commensurate with its age. The bodywork retains its crisp lines and elegant proportions, with very few imperfections to note.

Inside, the story is much the same. The fabric seats are exceptionally well preserved, with only a single mark visible on the front bench. All interior features function as intended—including the rare and desirable 7-day clock and auto tune Condor radio upgraded to FM. The brightwork and trim are complete and in excellent condition, showing no signs of damage or loss.

Mechanically, the Aurelia performs with the smooth confidence expected of a car with such careful stewardship. The V6 engine pulls strongly, free of smoke or troubling noises, while the gearbox shifts smoothly through all gears—making it a pleasure to drive even at modern cruising speeds. The Sliding Pillar front springs have been upgraded to provide a more rewarding driving experience.

For collectors and enthusiasts seeking one of Italy’s best-kept secrets, the Lancia Aurelia remains a compelling and rewarding choice.