Lancia Lambda
The world's first production car with a monocoque chassis.
- Power
- 49 bhp
- Top speed
- 68 mph
- Est. value
- $120k–$530k
About the Lancia Lambda
The Lancia Lambda is one of the most significant milestones in automotive history, debuting at the 1922 Paris Motor Show. It was the first production car to feature a load-bearing monocoque body and independent front suspension, innovations that were decades ahead of the industry. Powered by a narrow-angle V4 engine, the Lambda offered exceptional road-holding and a low centre of gravity compared to its ladder-frame contemporaries. While not built as a racer, its advanced chassis made it a formidable competitor in early editions of the Mille Miglia.
Lancia Lambda specs
The Lancia Lambda produces 49 bhp (37 kW). It has a top speed of 68 mph (110 km/h).
| Make | Lancia |
|---|---|
| Model | Lambda |
| Trim | 2.1 |
| Years | 1922–1931 |
| Type | Classic |
| Body style | Torpedo |
| Country | Italy |
| Production | About 13,000 built |
| Engine | 2.1-litre SOHC V4 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,119 cc (2.1 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 49 bhp (37 kW) at 3,250 rpm |
| Top speed | 68 mph (110 km/h) |
| Transmission | 3-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,225 kg (2,701 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 40 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 Lambda worth?
A typical Lancia Lambda is estimated to be worth $120,000 – $530,000 (about £89,000 – £395,000).
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 Lambda rarity in CarSpot
The Lancia Lambda is a Legendary card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 88 out of 100. Flagship models and limited runs, typically worth £250,000 or more. A Legendary card is worth 160 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 Lambda fun facts
- Vincenzo Lancia was inspired to create the monocoque structure after observing how a ship's hull provides structural integrity without a separate frame.
- The Lambda's sliding pillar front suspension was so effective that Lancia continued to use variations of the design for over 30 years.
- The car featured a narrow-angle V4 engine with a single cylinder head covering both banks, a layout that became a Lancia trademark.
