US$41,323.90 **Model History**The Lancia Appia was introduced in 1953. From that first appearance everyone seemed to be impressed with this little car. Although the concept of a front-mounted V4 engine driving the rear wheels via a live axle was as before, the Appia differed completely from the Ardea. Of most significance was the new engine, which had lost the traditional Lancia overhead-camshaft design for the V4. Instead, two low-mounted camshafts operated the inclined valves through long pushrods, one camshaft being reserved for the intake side and the other for exhaust valve operation. As a result of the very narrow V-shaped block, and the short crankshaft with only two main bearing, this was one of the shortest V4's ever built, though it was rather all. A bore and stroke measuring 68 x 75mm produced 1090cc. A simple four-speed gearbox had synchromesh on 2nd, 3rd and 4th gears and transmitted power to the rear wheels via a single-piece pro-shaft and hypoid-gear differential.The introduction of the Lancia Appia brought Lancia even more publicity than the debut of the Aurelia. All the comments were much the same and positive. Press en public judged it to be a fine combination of comfort and sporting appeal in a little car.The Appia had such an impact on the Italian market that several hundred orders were placed before the car's introduction. During the thee-year lifespan the 1st series was changed in many respects. Approximately 20.000 of the Appia 1st series were made before the introduction of a 2nd series. Although in layout the 2nd series was similar to its forerunner, Lancia had made so many changes that it requires describing all over again. The story begins with the engine, which was given a new cylinder-head casting and a new layout for the rocker-arms and valve gear. Different engine...