Lancia Aurelia

vs

Lancia Thesis

Italy vs Italy — 1953 vs 2001

Lancia Aurelia (1953)
Lancia Thesis (2001)
Specifications
Aurelia B24 SpiderThesis 3.2 V6
Horsepower118 hp230 hp
Torque145 lb-ft214 lb-ft
Engine Size2,451 cc3,195 cc
0-60 mph12.0 sec7.8 sec
Top Speed115 mph149 mph
¼ Mile18.0 sec15.8 sec
Weight2,381 lbs3,660 lbs
Wheelbase2,450 mm2,752 mm
Length4,370 mm4,890 mm
Units Produced76116,000
Original MSRP$5,500
Value (Excellent)$600,000$12,000
Collectibility9/103/10
Rarity8/105/10
The Verdict

This matchup is remarkably close. The 1953 Lancia Aurelia B24 Spider offers lighter weight, greater rarity, stronger collectibility, while the 2001 Lancia Thesis 3.2 V6 counters with more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. Neither holds a decisive advantage, making this a true enthusiast's dilemma. Your choice ultimately depends on which driving philosophy resonates more with you.

Overview

Within the Lancia stable, the 1953 Lancia Aurelia B24 Spider and 2001 Lancia Thesis 3.2 V6 represent different approaches to performance and purpose. Both carry the Lancia badge, yet each carves out its own distinct identity. The 2001 Lancia Thesis 3.2 V6 holds a clear advantage in raw power with 230 hp compared to 118 hp, a 112-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Lancia Aurelia uses a V6 OHV displacing 2,451 cc, while the Lancia Thesis relies on a V6 DOHC 24V with 3,195 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 2001 Lancia Thesis 3.2 V6 edges ahead at 7.8 seconds versus 12.0 seconds. The Lancia Aurelia carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 1279 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 761 units built, the 1953 Lancia Aurelia B24 Spider is considerably scarcer than the Lancia Thesis's 16,000 examples. On the collector market, the 1953 Lancia Aurelia B24 Spider commands a significant premium over the 2001 Lancia Thesis 3.2 V6, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1953 Lancia Aurelia B24 Spider rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.