Love for a little Lancia

Throughly enjoyed your article on the Farina-bodied Lancia Augusta (July 2017). When I broke my leg after falling off an AJS 500 twin many years ago, I enjoyed using my grandfather’s four-seat convertible Augusta during my rehabilitation.

It only went at about 65mph but had hydraulic brakes, excellent steering and independent front suspension. At 18 years old, I thought it an excellent vehicle to take my pals to Silverstone and Oulton Park, or convey rugby teammates to Moseley.

I used it for six months and during that time it compared excellently to my selfbuilt Austin 7 Special, and even cars like my father’s Bugatti Type 57. Well, almost.

I was loathe to give it up; but when my grandfather offered me a ten-year-old MG TC provided I gave up the AJS motorcycle, it took me about five seconds to agree.

Lovely little car, that Lancia Augusta.

Mike Virr