1957 Lancia Aurelia B20S GT

Lancia’s Aurelia platform impressed from the moment it was first unveiled to the public in 1950. Developed under the direction of gifted engineer, Vittorio Jano, the model—named for the ancient 239-mile Via Aurelia that linked Rome and Pisa—was bristling with industry-leading technology and clever thinking. From its unitary body construction and ingenious rear transaxle to the world’s first production V-6—a jewel of an engine with hemispherical combustion chambers and in-line valves—the Aurelia was quick, comfortable, and handled better than almost anything in its class. It was also the car that marked Lancia’s transition from small coachbuilder to mainstream manufacturer, and while the Aurelia initially broke cover in four-door Berlina guise, from the second year of production buyers could opt for the rakish B20 GT. Effortlessly stylish in its sharp two-door configuration, the coupé was a timeless shape that stood out even in the most glamorous company. It also had performance to match the looks, thanks to the introduction of an uprated 1, 991 cc variant of Francesco de Virgilio’s groundbreaking V-6. There would be five major revisions leading to six distinct series during the Aurelia’s life. Among the more notable changes was the introduction of the 2, 451-cc engine with the Series III, and the move from semi-trailing arms to a De Dion tube rear suspension with the Series IV—but it was the final Series VI variant that would prove the most usable and refined. Not only did it benefit from the technological advancements of the earlier series, the run-out model also featured a number of subtle revisions ranging from improved sound insulation to opening quarter-light windows.