1964 LANCIA FLAMINIA

Lancia’s reputation for engineering individuality found an especially elegant expression in the Flaminia. Conceived as the marque’s flagship, it brought together refined six-cylinder performance and sophisticated chassis design, providing the basis for a family of distinctive coachbuilt derivatives. Amongst these, Touring’s aluminium-bodied cars offered a particularly appealing combination of restrained Italian styling and long-distance capability.

The GTL extended that appeal through a 2+2 configuration, with a longer wheelbase and revised roofline providing space for occasional rear passengers. Produced in a run of approximately 300 examples, it remains an uncommon member of the Flaminia family. In 2.8-litre 3C form, its V6 engine is fed by three twin-choke Weber carburettors, giving this discreet grand tourer an appropriately sporting specification.

This 1964 example is believed to have been delivered new to Turin, Italy, according to its accompanying original Carta di Circolazione. It remained in Italy for much of its life before being imported into Germany by its previous owner in 1995. Acquired by the current owner and brought to the UK in 2020, it retains its Italian registration booklet, which is reported to record its ownership and use during its earlier life.

Regular enjoyment is a recurring theme in this Lancia’s history. Its previous owner undertook substantial journeys and long-distance rallies, including a trip from Berlin to Casablanca. That tradition has continued in current ownership, with journeys through Italy, the South of France and Portugal. These experiences have given the vendor considerable opportunity to appreciate the car’s abilities over the distances for which it was intended.

The engine and gearbox are believed to have been fully rebuilt in Germany in 2019 and more recently, the triple Weber carburettors have been rebuilt and the car has received a rolling-road tune. The vendor reports that it runs well, maintaining satisfactory temperatures and pressures in a variety of conditions, and particularly praises the quality of the remote gear change operating its rear-mounted transaxle.

Further work has included the installation of a full stainless-steel twin exhaust system incorporating Lambda-sensor access. The braking system has also been rebuilt, with the brake servo attended to by Lancia specialists Omicron Engineering and together, these items reflect expenditure directed towards maintaining the car as a regularly used 'grand tourer'.

Touring’s Superleggera aluminium coachwork retains an aged presentation, with the paint described as reasonable but showing its years. This is a car whose appeal centres on its character and established use, with a finish that the vendor has felt comfortable enjoying on extended journeys. Prospective purchasers should assess its cosmetic condition in person.

Inside, the cabin has been partially reupholstered in the correct tan leather, retaining a sympathetic appearance whilst renewing areas as required. Extensive replacement of rubber seals has also been undertaken, including those associated with the doors, quarterlights, windscreen and rear screen—useful attention on a car regularly taken beyond occasional local outings.

At the time of cataloguing, the vendor reports that the Flaminia is running well and ready for further use. Its combination of Touring coachwork, scarce GTL specification and a history of sustained European travel makes it an appealing prospect for an enthusiast seeking a classic Italian grand tourer to enjoy. Accompanied by its original Italian registration booklet and benefiting from the mechanical work outlined above, it offers the opportunity to continue a well-established tradition of travelling considerable distances in considerable style.