Lancia Astura Cabriolet Granlusso

Vehicle Overview

The Lancia Astura Cabriolet Granlusso represents the epitome of Italian automotive elegance from the late 1930s. The fourth series of Lancia Asturas, introduced in November 1937, marked the final evolution of this prestigious model line. Featuring a new platform chassis with a low floor, modern suspension, upgraded wheels, and an innovative braking system, the series established a new standard of sophistication and engineering. A total of 423 chassis were produced, leaving the creation of the bodies to renowned coachbuilders. Among them, Pininfarina’s workshop in Turin emerged as the most prolific, crafting the distinctive Granlusso Cabriolet, a model celebrated for its refined aesthetics and superior craftsmanship. The term “Granlusso” itself was coined in the 1930s by Battista Farina to distinguish his luxurious creations from those of his brother Giovanni, highlighting the competitive spirit between the two artisans. Designed by Count Mario Revelli di Beaumont, the Granlusso Cabriolet embodied grandeur with its high beltline, aerodynamic fenders, extended tail, and uniquely styled front grille. Chrome accents around the floor pan and fenders emphasized the car’s elegant silhouette, while the interior offered plush leather seating for four or five passengers. The dashboard followed a traditional design with instruments housed within an oval aluminum plate. The Granlusso’s soft top, available in black or sand, was crafted from durable cotton, while the two-tone metallic paint—a novelty of the era—added a contemporary touch. This paint innovation, led by Battista Farina and Revelli, utilized a spray gun designed specifically to handle the fine metallic grains without clogging. Of the five known Granlusso Cabriolet examples, four have survived. Notably, the first model debuted at the 1939 Berlin Motor Show, attracting high-profile attention. Two models remained in Europe, while others made their way to Sweden and the United States. A sixth unit, built on commission, was seized during World War II and has since been lost. The Lancia Astura Cabriolet Granlusso remains an iconic symbol of Italian luxury car design, cherished by collectors for its rarity, history, and timeless elegance.