See why the 1954 Lancia Aurelia B20GT Outlaw is so iconic even today
The 1954 Lancia Aurelia B20GT Outlaw holds a special place in automotive history, often heralded as the world’s first grand tourer (GT). This “Outlaw” variant draws inspiration from the sleek lines of Giovanni Bracco’s 1951 Mille Miglia and Le Mans Series 1 car, blending historical design cues with modern performance enhancements.
The Lancia Aurelia B20GT Outlaw is a restomod that stands out among its peers. The original Aurelia B20GT, first introduced in 1951, was part of a diverse lineup that included four-door saloons, two-door spiders, and convertibles. The B20 was the two-door coupe variant of the Aurelia, a car that quickly gained a reputation for its innovative engineering and elegant design.
Moreover, only about 3,800 units were ever produced, making it a rare and sought-after model. Initially, the Aurelia B20GT was equipped with a 2.0-litre V6 engine, one of the first series-produced V6 engines in the world. This engine set a new standard for performance and smoothness in the early 1950s.
In 1953, Lancia upgraded the engine to a more powerful 2.5-liter V6, further enhancing the car’s performance credentials. Both engine variants were front-mounted and paired with a four-speed manual gearbox, driving the rear wheels. The Aurelia’s engineering prowess didn’t stop at its engine as it also featured a perfect 50/50 weight distribution.
On top of that, this balance made the car exceptionally nimble and well-suited for navigating the winding roads of Italy. The car’s handling characteristics were a perfect match for its intended purpose as a grand tourer, capable of covering long distances quickly and comfortably.
Design-wise, the Lancia Aurelia B20GT was a collaboration between two of Italy’s most renowned design houses. The initial design was penned by Ghia, while the production models were built by Pininfarina. This partnership resulted in a car that was not only technically advanced but also aesthetically stunning.
The sleek, flowing lines of the bodywork and the elegant proportions made the Aurelia B20GT a true masterpiece of automotive design. The 1954 Lancia Aurelia B20GT Outlaw pays homage to this rich heritage while incorporating modern enhancements that elevate its performance and usability.
By combining the timeless design of the original with contemporary technology, the Outlaw version captures the spirit of the original GT while offering a driving experience that meets modern standards. This blend of past and present makes the Lancia Aurelia B20GT Outlaw a unique and highly desirable car for collectors and enthusiasts alike.
