Making its debut at the 1955 Turin Auto Salon, the Lancia Flaminia series took the reins from the revered Aurelia, solidifying Lancia’s post-war reputation as creators of technologically advanced and exquisitely designed automobiles. Initially available solely as the limousine-like Berlina, the overwhelmingly positive response to a coupe concept paved the way for two sport models with shortened wheelbases: the Flaminia GT and the Flaminia Sport. Both models proudly retained Lancia’s esteemed 2.5-liter, double-overhead-camshaft V-6 engine.
The Flaminia GT, a grand tourer, boasted coachwork by Milan-based Touring, while the Flaminia Sport received the artistry of Zagato. Under the guidance of Chief Stylist Ercole Spada, Zagato’s design embraced their distinct characteristics, featuring sleek curves, muscular contours, and notable elements like recessed, glass-covered headlamps, a central bonnet scoop, and the iconic “double-bubble” roof.
The Flaminia’s chassis employed a unitized construction, complemented by a body crafted entirely from lightweight alloy panels. Zagato’s coachwork not only enhanced the sporty Lancia chassis with improved aerodynamics but also bestowed it with a distinct and captivating appearance. Only 99 examples of the covered-headlamp Flaminia Sport Zagato were ever produced, and they continue to be regarded as some of the most exceptional creations by Lancia and Zagato to this day.
Source: RM Sotheby’s
