Chassis no. 812.01-1031 is likely a unique example: it appears to be the only surviving example of the 10 Lancia Appias bodied by Motto and made of aluminum. It was built in 1957 and is particularly suitable and easily eligible for endurance races for vintage vehicles such as the Mille Miglia, where the model competed in 1957. The car was developed and restored in 1993; over the years, the mechanicals and chassis have been overhauled. Between 1993 and 2003, the car was used for regularity races. Since 2003, the car has been stored but “retired”; its bodywork needs to be overhauled, while the interior is in good condition. The car has undergone a mechanical overhaul.
Upon the Appia’s departure, Ferruccio Bernabò, a renowned journalist and avid Lancia supporter, wrote: “… you had the look of a young aristocrat, both elegant and sober… in both your mechanics and your lines, you dared to go against the grain—like many Lancias that had preceded you—and for this reason, it was a bit difficult for you to immediately stand out. And besides, it was part of your reserved nature… They dressed you… and then, as always without fuss, you won the Concours d’Elegance…”
But the “little” Appia wore several outfits throughout its career; one particularly fitting one, modeled from a lightweight aluminum alloy, highlighted its sporting qualities. It was the work of Rocco Motto, who was the coachbuilder of numerous famous cars but almost always worked incognito. Specializing in aluminum construction, before and after the war he built countless racing cars, which raced successfully in Europe and America. In the 1950s, he designed sports cars and grand touring cars; at Lancia’s request, he also built several lightweight Aurelia racing cars and a small series of Appia racing cars. In the 1960s, he diversified production and focused on recreational vehicles.
Chassis no. 812.01-1031 is one of, presumably, 10 Lancia Appias bodied by Motto and built in aluminum, with a very compact cabin compared to observations of the car, and long front and rear hoods. The lines are taut and tapered, very well-proportioned, interrupted only by the two large side vents. The glass is extensive, for good visibility. From photos compared to two other examples, the nose appears to vary slightly from one example to another; This one features a tapered mouth with a chrome moustache and the Lancia shield, flanked by two small side grilles inside the headlights. Inside, the cabin is understated but not bare; the dashboard is easy to read and complete with a rev counter.
