The 1955 Lincoln Indianapolis, a show car originally exhibited at the 1955 Turin Automobile Salon, carries a rich history and exceptional features. Designed by Gian Paolo Boano in collaboration with Carrozzeria Boano Turino, this concept car was built on a Lincoln chassis, showcasing a futurist aircraft-inspired design. Its distinctive elements included a rounded center section tapering toward pontoon-like wings, side exhausts, and a glassy canopy reminiscent of streamlined 1930s Le Mans racing cars.
The interior, designed for two, featured fine leather, a unique "stepped" console dividing bucket seats, and a fascia adorned with the proud inscription "INDIANAPOLIS." Following its Turin debut, the car garnered recognition, notably from Ford Motor Company. The Indianapolis was purchased by Ford and later acquired by Packard collector Thomas Kerr, who oversaw an extensive restoration, including engine enhancements and a remarkable finish. Its restoration led to numerous accolades at prestigious events, such as Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance and Greenwich Concours.
After passing through various ownerships, the car found a place in the esteemed Andrews Collection and continued its success on the concours circuit. It was eventually acquired by the present consignor in 2015, adding further recognition by being featured in the Frist Art Museum's display on Italian Automotive Renaissance. Accompanied by documentation and a captivating history, the 1955 Lincoln Indianapolis stands as a breathtaking one-off design, representing the pinnacle of "hot rod Lincolns."
Source: RM Sotheby's; www.italiantribune.com; www.jaylenosgarage.com
Images: supercars.net; www.kimballstock.com
