1966 Lancia Flavia

The Flavia saloon was launched in 1961 and continued the company's reputation for advanced and innovative automotive engineering. Wearing a design by Antonio Fessia and inspired by his Cemsa prototype of 1947, the Flavia was Italy's first series production car to utilize a front-wheel-drive configuration. The engine was positioned forward of the front wheels, and the suspension was independent at the front and by beam axle at the rear. There were dual-circuit, servo-assisted disc brakes at all four corners.

In 1962, the saloon was joined by the shorter-wheelbase Pininfarina-styled Coupe, which would later provide the basis for a convertible version by Vignale. The Convertible was a four-seater sports car that offered comfort, handling, and stability.

Another body style was the Zagato-built Sport Coupe. It was designed by Ercole Spada and was significantly lighter than other Flavia models by virtue of its alloy body, and it also featured panoramic rear quarter windows that wrapped into the roof. The concave rear window was hinged at the top and actuated by an electric motor, which opened a few centimeters for improved ventilation, and the sloping rear deck ended in a raked tail.

by Daniel Vaughan | Sep 2016