Transmission: 3 gears, Manual gearbox
Model year: 2022
Number of cylinders: 4
Engine capacity: 4.942 cc
Empty weight: 1.570 kg
Emission class: Euro 0
Registration number: DZ-55-68

The Lancia Theta Speedster Runabout with a Hayes and Miller supplied body. For those who only know Lancia from the models they have produced over the last ten years it might come as a bit of a surprise that Lancia used to be quite the powerhouse. The Theta was an example that completely reinforced that strong reputation. The Theta had a 4-cylinder side valve engine with a 5 litre cubic capacity. The engine produced a pleasing 70 Ps, had a 4-speed manual transmission and a revolutionary mechanical brake on two wheels. Dependent on the type of bodywork, the car achieved speeds up to 120 km/hr and more over was one of the first cars to have electronic ignition. As you can imagine the Lancia Theta was reassuringly expensive. Despite it’s hefty price card the Theta was a hit in the States. To enhance its American market attraction, Lancia decided to offer the Theta as a rolling chassis. As such American Coachbuilders could start making their own bodywork with the added benefit of allowing the cars to be slightly more competitively priced. Overall Lancia managed sales of 1,700 Theta’s. According to insiders only 25 examples still remain. It is also very unlikely one is such condition as our one is.

This one started life as a rolling chassis before Hayes and Miller provided the Speedster Runabout top. This example has never been fully restored and has retained its authenticity. Thanks to years of dedicated care and maintenance it escaped the need for a full body-off restoration. This has resulted in probably one of the most authentic Lancia Theta’s in the world. Even the foot boards are original. For years the car formed part of different collections and was used regularly on short trips. When it comes to cars, immobility is a retrograde step and as such we should be grateful previous owners used the car regularly. It’s bodywork is still mainly original with nice and thin, neatly aligned panelwork. The paintwork, of course, has been resprayed and is very presentable.

The interior is very authentic. The dashboard is exactly the same as when it left the factory in 1913 and whilst the upholstery and carpets were replaced at some time, they have developed a fine patina since then.

The engine is very powerful for its time and its handling capabilities still qualify as being very good. The latter is not surprising in a car that was authoritative at the time when it came to road handling. The gear selection is precise and the very long 4th keeps the revs nice and low, contributing to its serene road handling.

The Lancia Theta has increased in popularity in recent years due to the fact collectors are starting to appreciate Lancias of this era are supremely suitable to participate in rallies such as the Peking to Paris one. This car is sturdy and fast enough for its age for you to enjoy undertaking such a monster trip.

This, in other words, is not just a very authentic and well preserved Hayes and Miller Lancia Theta Speedster Runabout, it is also eminently qualifies for taking part in one of the world’s most prestigious rallies.

Gallery Aaldering is Europe’s leading Classic Cars specialist since 1975! Always 400 Classic and Sportscars in stock, please visit www.gallery-aaldering.com for the current stock list (all offered cars are available in our showroom) and further information. We are located near the German border, 95 km from Düsseldorf and 90 km from Amsterdam. So easy traveling by plane, train, taxi and car. Transport and worldwide shipping can be arranged. No duties/import costs within Europe. We buy, sell and provide consignment sales (selling on behalf of the owner). We can arrange/provide registration/papers for our German (H-Kennzeichen, TÜV, Fahrzeugbrief, Wertgutachten usw.) and Benelux customers. Gallery Aaldering, Arnhemsestraat 47, 6971 AP Brummen, The Netherlands. Tel: 0031-575-564055. Quality, experience and transparency is what sets us apart. We look forward to welcoming you in our showroom