Lancia Astura Coupé Castagna

Vehicle Overview

The Lancia Astura Coupé Castagna, chassis 91.0394 boasts a fascinating history intertwined with Italian automotive and cultural heritage. In August 1935, this car participated in the prestigious 24 Hours of Pescara race, showcasing its engineering prowess and racing potential. Merely five weeks later, it graced the Concorso d’Eleganza at Lago di Como, blending competition pedigree with elegance. A year and a half after its initial registration, the Lancia Astura received an aerodynamic body crafted by Carrozzeria Castagna Milano. This bespoke design was developed as a racing adaptation, highlighting the renowned craftsmanship and ingenuity of Castagna. While a popular tale suggests that this adaptation was commissioned by Vittorio Mussolini, son of Benito Mussolini, it has been widely discredited, with no credible evidence linking the car to the Mussolini family. In addition to its striking bodywork, the Lancia Astura Coupé Castagna underwent a significant mechanical upgrade. The original engine was replaced with the more powerful three-liter, 82 hp V8 from the Astura Series III, in place of the earlier 2.6-liter eight-cylinder engine. This enhancement reinforced its performance credentials, making it a formidable contender on the road and track. The Lancia Astura Coupé Castagna remains a captivating example of 1930s automotive artistry and innovation, representing a seamless fusion of elegance, performance, and the vision of one of Italy’s most celebrated coachbuilders. Its legacy endures as a testament to the golden era of bespoke automotive design.