1926 Lancia Lambda 6 Series Tourer

Description

Lancia's ground-breaking Lambda caused a sensation when it was introduced in 1923. It was the first car to feature a load-bearing monocoque-type body, (but without a stressed roof) and also pioneered the use of an independent front suspension, via a sliding pillar with coil springs. Lancia even invented its own hydraulic shock absorber for the car. Powerful four-wheel drum brakes and an advanced OHC V-4 engine completed the Lambda's innovative specification. Some 12,988 Lambdas were produced in nine series's in Lancia's Turin factory before the model was discontinued in 1931, during which time it re-shaped European automotive design. Road tests at the time were enthusiastic and complimentary, describing a high level of road-holding and stability. The first six series of the Lambda employed an engine of 2120 cc capacity. This was increased to 2370 cc for the seventh series and again to 2570 cc for eighth and ninth series. A four-speed gearbox replaced the earlier three-speed unit from fifth series on. However the general engine design, body construction and unique front suspension system were all retained for the entire Lambda production.