Search Powered ByAsk.com
on
News

News

April 3, 2008

Photo fit

What do you need to create a perfect replica of a 1930s roadster? A full set of blueprints? A rusted version of the original? A Haynes manual? In the case of Italian coachbuilder Zagato, just a couple of faded, dog-eared photographs.

See, when Andrea Zagato decided to recreate the 1938 Lancia Aprilia roadster built by his grandfather Ugo, he faced a bit of a problem. Only three of the original cars were ever build, and none survive today.

But armed with a pair of grainy black-and-white photos, Zagato created this, the Lancia Aprilia Sport. The bodywork was beaten into shape by hand - just like grandpappy used to do it - while the detailing, including the massive grille and neat individual windshields, are perfect replicas of the original.

Performance should be authentically wheezy, with power coming from a tiny Aprilia motorcycle engine producing 48bhp. That'll see the roadster to a giddy 78mph - with no roll-hoops, we're not sure we'd fancy going any quicker.

Zagato plans to build just nine roadsters, with prices starting at £150,000 Euros. Faded photos not included.

CLICK TO ENLARGE
  • Zagato Aprilia
  • Zagato Aprilia
  • Zagato Aprilia
  • Zagato Aprilia

Advertiser links

Advertisment
Car Reviews

Car Reviews

Search road tests
Search now
Buyer's Guide
BUYING, RUNNING, SELLING

You need cash to buy a motor - our guide to finance will help




Buying a personalised plate? Check out our buyer's guide



Subscriptions
Subscribe to Top Gear, get a free TG Interactive Challenge DVD

Top Gear Interactive Challenge
Newsletter
Sign up to our newsletter and keep up to speed with Top Gear

Newsletter
Fast-track your motoring career with the help of Top Gear

Top Gear Careers
Get the Top Gear road test verdict on your next car - only £3

Road Test Reprints
The Top Gear word mark and logo are trade marks of the BBC and are used under licence
Subscribe