Lancia Appia (1953 – 1963) Review

The Appia was Lancia’s entry-level model during the 1950s and into the 1960s, and although it was smaller and cheaper than the Aurelia, the Appia (named after a Roman road) shared a major family resemblance. It may have looked similar, but it was far more basic both mechanically and in terms of interior trim. The Appia was blessed with a brand new, small capacity V4 engine (with the V angle set at a very narrow 10 degrees) and although it wasn’t very powerful, performance was good. Favourable power to weight ratio helped – and clever detailing such as aluminium doors, boot, bonnet and rear wings showed that its designers were on the ball.

In 1956, a Series two model appeared, with a restyled rear end – and that resulted in a larger luggage compartment, as well as giving the car more contemporary look. Power output was given a useful uplift, which gave the car more performance. In 1959, power was raised again to 53bhp for the Series 3 facelift. As well as van, ambulance and pick-up versions, coachbuilt models appeared, styled by Carrozzeria such as Vignale, Farina, Lombardi, Viotti and Scioneri. Most notable of these special Appias was the rare Zagato GT coupé. Lancia also built its own coupe and cabriolet, but these are exceptionally hard to find today, with a total of 5161 examples built.