14 Facts About Vincenzo Lancia

Vincenzo Lancia was an Italian racing driver, engineer and founder of Lancia.

Vincenzo Lancia was born in the small village of Fobello on 24 August 1881, close to Turin; his family tree starts in Fabello around 1550.

Vincenzo Lancia was the youngest of four children, his father being a soup canner who made his money in Argentina before returning to Turin to start his business.

From an early age, Vincenzo showed a gift with numbers, and it was intended for him to become a bookkeeper, but developed an interest in machinery and engineering, and was fascinated with the new motor car.

Vincenzo Lancia eventually became an apprentice with Giovanni Battista Ceirano, a bicycle importer in Turin, and he was named bookkeeper in the company's brochure in 1898.

Vincenzo Lancia was developing his skills in engineering, design and construction, and developed patience, perseverance and determination.

Once Vincenzo Lancia was sent to help Count Carlo Biscaretti di Ruffia, who owned a Benz.

Vincenzo Lancia was to become important in Lancia's later career and was credited with the design of the now familiar Lancia logo.

Vincenzo Lancia was now chief inspector at Fiat, and was a test driver, although only 19.

Vincenzo Lancia's driving impressed the Fiat bosses, and he was invited to drive their cars in races.

Vincenzo Lancia led the first lap of first French Grand Prix at Le Mans with a time of 53 minutes 42 seconds.

Vincenzo Lancia was an exceptionally fast driver, often the fastest of all, but often suffered a mechanical failure.

Vincenzo Lancia died from a heart attack on 15 February 1937 just before the Aprilia was put into full production.

Vincenzo Lancia was 55 years old, and he lies buried at Fobello.