Following a one off race car built in 1932 (capable of 180km/h with a 65bhp JAP 998cc
two-cylinder air-cooled vee engine!), Enrico Nardi worked for a period first for Lancia
and then Ferrari, where he helped create the AAC815. From 1947 he teamed up with
Ricardo Danese as a business partner (hence the use, sometimes, of the
name 'Nardi Danese') and produced a very limited number of sportscars. These
were usually unique, almost always used a tubular chassis and Fiat derived front and rear suspension, and were powered
by various engines, frequently 750cc BMW motorbike units, but including
items from Alfa Romeo (6C2500 units), Fiat (1100) and Lancia (Aurelia)
as well as non-Italian units (Crosley 750's). Bodies were constructed by
various carrozzeria, including Bertone, Allemano, Frua and Motto.
Notable was also the 'Bisiluro' which competed unsuccessfully at
Le Mans in 1955. A twin-boom vehicle, the pilot was seated in one 'pod'
whilst the Giannini 750cc engine was located in the other. This proved,
however, to be effectively the end of car production, with a few exceptions
including a couple of Lancia Aurelia based concept cars in 1955. Gradually
the company moved into the field of performance accessories, starting with
factory approved kits for Lancia Aurelias in 1951 and going on to include
various models such as the Fiat 600. They continued to produce components
and went on to become famous especially for their steering wheels.
Enrico Nardi passed away at the age of 59 in 1966.
If you know of any links relevant to Nardi please send them in. Thanks.
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See our picture gallery index for images from museums, motorshows and events, some of which feature cars by Nardi Danese.
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