The well of information on the Fiat 616, especially in the English language, is dry. These workhorses were produced from 1965 to 1978 using different designations depending on the region in which they were sold. Interestingly, the 616 was the first Fiat to use the silver Fiat script on black background.

Power came from a 3.5L diesel - an uncommonly large displacement for a Fiat of the era - producing around 82hp. The model was offered in four series, with this example falling within the final N3 series.

Year: 1972
Model:  Fiat 616
Engine: 3.5L diesel
Transmission: 4-speed manual
Mileage:  31012
Price: $13,500 obo
Location: Okahumpka, FL

CLICK FOR DETAILS: 1972 Fiat 616 Wrecker

Fiat 616 Wrecker, 4 spd. Manual with 4 cyl. Diesel Engine, all in good working conditions, for more information please call us. 305 401 7469

It seems that the GVCR for the 616 is around 7,000lb, which probably leaves enough towing capacity for plenty of contemporary Italian classics. Loading them up should be quick work with the hydraulic boom. The seller notes rust in the storage boxes, though otherwise the wrecker seems to be in manageable condition. Finding service parts for a commercial Fiat from the 70s might be difficult in North America, but the simplicity of the 616 should help some.

We really like the idea of this thing, but can't help but to see it as little more than a show piece. There are probably a few collections where it could prove useful for moving cars around the property, and it might even be fun(?) to recover friends in their broken down Italian cars with this thing. On a per pound basis, we can't really argue with the price either. Hopefully this wrecker finds its way into a cool collection and sees some use.

-Graham