Sales continued with ever increasing volumes (and also profits) until the first world war. During
the latter, first military vehicles and then aircraft engines were produced,
but the end of the war shortened contracts and initiated the financial
problems which were to plague Itala from then on.
A move to smaller cars came in the early twenties when the Tipo 24, with a six cylinder 2-litre
engine, was introduced. This was followed in 1924 by the Tipo 61 (with
a 1995cc 60bhp straight-six), available with either a 3000mm or 3200mm
wheelbase and numerous body styles (including Torpedo, two door, four door,
limousine and bateau). Financial problems continued through the twenties
and the development of the Tipo 61 first into the Tipo 65 and then the
Tipo 75 failed to create much success.
The last cars were produced in 1934 and the company closed.
Itala
was formed in 1904 at Turin by Matteo Ceirano and Guido Bigio and began
to produce large engine sporty cars. Success in motorsport followed, most
famously winning the Paris-Peking Marathon in 1907. This, combined with
some famous customers ensured exposure and thus sales. The car which had
won the Paris-Peking event as powered by a 7.4-litre four cylinder engine,
and later 11.1 and 12.9-litre six cylinder units were developed.
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