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Astura Boneschi Cabriolet
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  Lancia Astura Boneschi Cabriolet      

  Article Image gallery (17) 41-3125 Specifications User Comments (1)  
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Country of origin:Italy
Produced from:1937 - 1939
Internal name:Tipo 241 (4th Series)
Designed by:Boneschi
Author:Wouter Melissen
Last updated:March 20, 2012
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Click here to download printer friendly versionIn 1931, Lancia introduced two models two replace the revolutionary but ageing Lamba; the Artena and the Astura. Powered by a 2-litre V4, the Artena served as the company's new entry-level model, while the larger, sportier and more luxuriously appointed V8-engined Astura catered to more demanding customers.

Like the Lambda's V4, the Astura Tipo 85 V8 used an unusually narrow angle (19°) between the banks of cylinders. This typical Lancia feature provided the benefits of both a V and inline engine in that a short block could be used in combination with one integral cylinder head. Fitted vertically in the head the valves were actuated by a single overhead camshaft.

Cast in iron, the Tipo 85 V8 displaced just over 2.6 litre. Breathing through a single Zenith carburettor, mounted on top of the engine, Lancia's new eight cylinder engine produced 72 bhp at 4,000 rpm. The V8 was mated to a four-speed manual gearbox that drove the rear wheels.

Whereas the Lambda had pioneered monocoque construction, Lancia opted to use a more conventional steel ladder frame for the Astura, allowing for a much broader choice of (custom) coach-work. Suspension was independent at the front through Lancia's patented sliding pillars, while at the rear a traditional live rear axle was fitted.

Named after a monumental castle built on a small island near Nettuno on Italy's west coast, the Astura was launched late in 1931 during the Paris Auto Salon. Production commenced in earnest in 1932 when no fewer than 798 examples were built. Later that year a second series was introduced but this was virtually identical to the original model.

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  Article Image gallery (17) 41-3125 Specifications User Comments (1)