Lancia Ardea
A scaled-down masterpiece of pre-war engineering featuring Lancia's signature narrow-angle V4.
- Power
- 28 bhp
- Top speed
- 65 mph
- Est. value
- $11k–$25k
About the Lancia Ardea
Introduced in 1939, the Ardea was designed as a smaller, more affordable companion to the Aprilia, sharing its advanced pillarless saloon design and aerodynamic silhouette. It is powered by a remarkably compact 903cc narrow-angle V4 engine, which was the smallest V4 ever put into series production at the time. Despite its diminutive size, the Ardea featured sophisticated engineering including independent front suspension and, in later series, the world's first five-speed manual gearbox in a production car. It remains a highly respected example of Lancia's commitment to technical excellence regardless of vehicle segment.
Lancia Ardea specs
The Lancia Ardea produces 28 bhp (21 kW) and 68 Nm (50 lb-ft) of torque. It has a top speed of 65 mph (105 km/h).
| Make | Lancia |
|---|---|
| Model | Ardea |
| Trim | 0.9 |
| Years | 1939–1953 |
| Type | Classic |
| Body style | Saloon |
| Country | Italy |
| Production | About 31,961 built |
| Engine | 903cc 17° V4 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 903 cc (0.9 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 28 bhp (21 kW) at 4,600 rpm |
| Torque | 68 Nm (50 lb-ft) |
| Top speed | 65 mph (105 km/h) |
| Transmission | 4-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 750 kg (1,653 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 37 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a Lancia Ardea worth?
A typical Lancia Ardea is estimated to be worth $11,000 – $25,000 (about £8,200 – £19,000).
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Lancia Ardea rarity in CarSpot
The Lancia Ardea is an Uncommon card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 40 out of 100. Hot hatches and premium sporty cars. An Uncommon card is worth 20 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Lancia Ardea fun facts
- The Ardea Series 3, introduced in 1948, was the first mass-produced car in the world to be equipped with a 5-speed manual transmission.
- Its pillarless door design allows for exceptionally easy access to the cabin, a hallmark of Lancia engineering from the Lambda through to the Appia.
- The engine's V-angle is so narrow (17 degrees) that it utilizes a single cylinder head for both banks of cylinders.
