The Lancia Flavia, a medium-sized executive car, launched initially with a 1500cc overhead valve, horizontally opposed four-cylinder aluminium engine which was mounted ahead of the front wheels providing a drive with plenty of torque.

Combined with the independent front suspension and beam axle at the rear, this provided great road holding while the dual-circuit, servo-assisted all-round disc brakes gave the Lancia Flavia exceptional braking combined with front-wheel drive performance making it a very advanced vehicle from its time.

Launched at the 1960 Turin Motor Show and introduced in major European markets during the next 12 months.

Coupé and convertible versions developed by Pininfarina and Vignale quickly followed, the Pininfarina-styled coupé entered production on a shorter chassis, this was soon followed by the announcement of the highly attractive four-seater convertible version by Vignale.

When released, the design was revolutionary and remains elegant and timeless to dat...