1927 Lancia Lambda 7th Series Roadster

This Lancia Lambda Short Wheelbase Roadster is a complete, unmolested, and original automobile. It is a late, seventh series example with roadster coachwork with a vanishing rumble seat from the local coachbuilder Casaro of Turin. Casaro also penned the bodywork for the three unofficial Lancia team Mille Miglia entries in 1928 and 1929.

The car retains many original features such as the carburetor and Autovac, its Bosch lighting, and switchgear. The radiator and 'eared' gas caps are also present. The interior fabric is period-grained leather. Under the front seats are neatly arranged trays for spares, which still include some original tools.

In the 1940s, this vehicle was acquired from its former owner in New York state from a gentleman who had bought it with the intention of turning it into a trailer. Since the car did not have a conventional chassis, it was therefore no use to him. His intention had been to crap the car and keep the wheels. The previous owner intervened and managed to negotiate an exchange for some Ford Model A wheels. From that point in history and forward, it saw very little use.

In 2011, this vehicle was offered for sale at the Quail Lodge auction presented by Bonhams. As bidding came to a close, the car had been sold for the sum of $202,800 inclusive of the buyer's premium.

By Daniel Vaughan | Nov 2011