Tag Archives: Fiat

Fiat

1988 Fiat Panda 4×4 Sisley Limited Edition

April 7, 2014 Graham 1 Comment

If you haven't been following the automotive trend towards smaller displacement "crossover" all-wheel drive vehicles that look tough, then you'd be forgiven. Often just appearance packages, these cars charge a premium for little if any increase in performance. But the trend for these mini do-it-alls started way back in the 1980s. Toyota, Honda, Subaru and Volkswagen all got in on the budget-car-meets-off-roader trend, producing 4-wheel drive versions of their economy hatchbacks. Fiat was not to be outdone, though, producing an unlikely combination that may have also been the smallest of all; the Fiat Panda 4x4. Jacked up and looking ready to flip at the slightest hint of a turn, these Pandas were even dressed up a bit in 1987 with the "Sisley Limited Edition" model, shown here today:

Year: 1988
Model: Panda 4x4
Engine: 1.0 liter inline-4
Transmission: 4-speed manual
Mileage: 75,600 mi
Price: Reserve Auction

CLICK FOR DETAILS:1988 Fiat Panda 4x4

MAMA MIA!! J

FIAT PANDA – 4X4

USA COMPLIANT

FIRST REGISTERED IN ITALY 09/12/1988.

2 OWNERS FROM NEW. A MERE 77,600 MILES COVERED IN 26 YEARS.

ASTONISHING CONDITION – RELIABLE, SIMPLE MOTORING....

FULL WORKING CONDITION WITH NO KNOWN FAULTS....TURN THE KEY AND GO, GO , GO!

DOT, NHASTA, EPA, CBP COMPLIANT.

Welcome ALL Fiat Fans and welcome to all those who choose “to do things differently”

CHECK OUT THESE GREAT LINK OF THE PANDA AT WORK AND PLAY

We are a Company specialising in the restoration, customization and importation of Land Rovers across the USA and Canada.....we spend a good deal of time in Southern Italy sourcing appropriate Defenders and are always drawn to other interesting Italian vehicles...we love the 4x4 Pandas for their simplicity, and over the past few months have invested in a number of these vehicles....we have no doubt that the machines we have selected to purchase are the very best available import compliant Panda’s in the whole of Italy.

So....This is an auction for the world famous (and never before available Fiat Panda 4x4 in the USA).

The Panda 4x4 Sisley offered for auction here is probably the most accomplished and certainly the best selling utility 4x4 small car of all time. The Sisley model is the “top of the range” offering.

While the original Panda never gained the kind of cult following that similar cars such as the 2CV and VW Beetle enjoy, it nonetheless engendered strong feelings of attachment among many owners for its robustness, affordability, simplicity and flexibility.

This beautiful machine was never homologated for sale in the USA, however under USA federal law, the Mk 1 Panda is allowed entry under the “25 year” rule as a vehicle of historic interest.

The first generation Fiat Panda was introduced in 1980, and was produced until 1986, when it underwent several changes. From 1986 until 2003, it was produced with only a few changes. They are now sometimes referred to as the "old Panda".

The second generation, launched in 2003, is sometimes referred to as the "New Panda" or "Nuova Panda" (in Italian), and was the European Car of the Year in 2004.

In over 31 years Fiat has sold over 10.5 million Pandas globally, with more than 6.5 million being the first series Panda. The version of Panda that interests most comers is the 4x4 version as it offers utility and practicality and an interesting antidote to larger SUV vehicles.

If you have never seen these incredible small cars in action than we recommend you get goog-ling and take a look – you will be astonished at their ability and agility!

All of our Fiat Pandas come directly from Southern Italy. They are Left Hand Drive and all have many less the 80,000 miles from new, each unique machine has a history and a story to tell.

They are selected for their original condition, structural and mechanical integrity and careful ownership. Italians love their Pandas and our “top spec” models are often owned from new by the same family – simply being passed from Mother to Daughter or Father to Son.

The cars are bought to England where they are given full and intrusive service and inspection. Thereafter they are detailed and offered for sale to our discerning USA clients.

All cars are issued with a UK title document and UK certificate making DOT registration easy and foolproof.

We have a range of Pandas in many different colors. With different accessory options available.

This wonderful small car is powered by a 1.0 litre fuel injected (Fire) motor and has fully engagable four wheel drive. The perfect car for the beach, the forest, the street.....offering go anywhere ability at 50 miles to the gallon.

Maintenance no problem – Parts accessibility – easy!

Shipping available from us in the UK to any USA port with customs clearance and onwards delivery taken care of by our freight forwarders – no problem.

Shipping costs approximately $3000 per vehicle. You should allow an additional c. $2500 for duty and import fees.

Introduced in 1980, the Panda (Type 141) was designed as a modern day "peasant car": a cheap, basic, no-frills utility vehicle,that would be easy to use and maintain. It can be seen as a later approach to the same niche which the Citroën 2CV and Renault 4 were designed to serve.

The first Panda was designed by Giorgetto Giugiaro, who went on record at the time of its launch describing the Panda as "the most enchanting work of his life", while Felice Cornacchia, the chief designer on the project described himself as "proud overall of the car's architecture". In Germany, Fiat's largest export market, a less positive reaction came from Peter Glodschey, chief road tester of the influential mass-market Bild newspaper, who compared the Panda with "a shoe box", but it seemed the shoe box was considered more beautiful.[7] In several key markets the Panda's styling would continue to attract mixed reactions as the Uno followed in 1983 and the aggressively boxy look became the house style for Fiats throughout the 1980s.

Mechanically the first Pandas borrowed heavily from the Fiat parts bin. Engines and transmissions came from the Fiat 127 and, in certain territories, the air-cooled 652 cc two-cylinder powerplant from the Fiat 126. The plan for a mechanically simple car was also evident in the rear suspension, which used a dead axle suspended on leaf springs. Later versions of the car added various mechanical improvements but this spirit of robust simplicity was adhered to throughout the life of the model.

Many design features reflect the Panda's utilitarian practicality. Examples include a seven-position adjustable rear seat which could be folded flat to make an improvised bed [1], or folded into a V shape to support awkward loads, or easily and quickly removed altogether to increase the overall load space. The first Pandas also featured removable, washable seat covers, door trims and dashboard cover, and all the glass panels were flat making them cheap to produce, easy to replace and interchangeable between left and right door. Much like its earlier French counterparts the Panda could be specified with a two piece roll forward canvas roof.

The first generation Panda met with great success across Europe, polling 2nd in the 1981 European Car of the Year awards in its first full year of production (pipped to first place by the Ford Escort Mark III) and staying in production in some regions until May 2003.

The Panda 4x4 was launched in June 1983, it was powered by a 965 cc engine with 48 bhp (36 kW) derived from that in the Autobianchi A112. Known simply as the Panda 4x4, this model was the first small, transverse-engined production car to have a 4WD system. The system itself was manually selectable, with an ultra-low first gear. Under normal (on-road) conditions starting was from second, with the fifth gear having the same ratio as fourth in the normal Panda. Austrian company Steyr-Puch supplied the entire drivetrain (clutch, gearbox, power take-off, three-piece propshaft, rear axle including differential and brakes) to the plant at Termini Imerese where it was fitted to the reinforced bodyshell.

In January 1986, the Panda received a substantial overhaul and a series of significant mechanical improvements. Most of these changes resulted in the majority of parts being changed and redesigned, making many of the pre-facelift and post-facelift Panda parts incompatible between models. The 652 cc air-cooled 2-cyl engine was replaced by a 769 cc (34 bhp) water-cooled 4-cyl unit, and the 903/965cc by a 999cc (45 bhp, 50 bhp (37 kW) in the 4x4) unit. Both new engines were from Fiat's new FIRE family of 4-cylinder water-cooled powerplants with a single overhead camshaft. The rear suspension was also upgraded, the rear leaf springs being replaced by a more modern independent suspension system using a rigid rear axle (known as the 'Omega' axle) with a central mounting and coil springs. The 4x4 retained the old leaf sprung set-up, presumably to avoid having to redesign the entire 4WD system. Improvements were also made to the interior and the structure. The body was strengthened and fully galvanised on later models, virtually eliminating the earlier car's strong tendency to rust. The rear panel design was also revamped to include flared arches that mirrored those of the front wings, replacing the un-sculpted style seen on earlier models, and the doors received a slight redesign with the earlier car's quarter light windows being removed and replaced by a full width roll-down window.

The Panda 4x4 Sisley limited edition was released in 1987 this was based on the standard 4x4, but came with metallic paint, inclinometer, white painted wheels, roof rack, headlamp washers, bonnet scoop, "Sisley" badging and trim. Although originally limited to the production of only 500, in 1989 the Sisley model became a permanent model due to its popularity.

From 1996 onwards, the Panda was gradually phased out across Europe, due to tightening emissions regulations. The car remained in production in Italy until May 2003. Its total production run of 23 years makes the Panda one of Europe's longest-lived small cars.

With the end of production, the 4x4 version of the Panda came to be seen as a valuable used car: it was cheap, sturdy and useful in rural areas, while most of the other 4x4 vehicles on the market were expensive SUVs.

So thanks for looking and thanks for reading....we hope you enjoy the pictures. This car is every bit as wonderful in real life!

Happy Bidding folks.

While the Panda will never win any beauty contests, it's none-the-less a neat and unique vehicle that would certainly draw a crowd. Assisting that would be the particularly fetching color combination of this model; the grey paint with white wheels really pops, and the box-stastic shape of the Panda is highlighted by the understated tones in such good condition. I love the canoe-strewn seat covers and it must be said that I think this is the nicest condition Fiat Panda I've ever seen. While hilariously high, there is no doubt that this car would generate a serious amount of attention at any local 'Cars and Coffee' meet. What's perhaps even a bit more hilarious is that they actually worked off road, as witnessed by the video links. Try that in your Subaru Cross-trek! Bidding is quite low and while it would cost a fair amount to get over to these shores, I really think it would be enjoyable to raise a few eyebrows driving this little gem around town.

-Carter

Classic, Fiat

1971 Fiat 124 Spider

March 29, 2014 Graham 2 Comments

There's something that's timeless about the small Italian spider, and while the default is to usually consider the Alfa-Romeo as the go-to spider, in reality there were several great offerings - many of which still pepper the market. This 1971 Fiat Spider is no exception; with the cleaner early body style, simple steel wheels with covers and looking splendid in orange over black, this is a unique expression of Italian motoring:

Year: 1971
Model: 124 Spider
Engine: 1.6 liter inline-4
Transmission: 4-speed manual
Mileage: 65,000 mi
Price: Reserve Auction

CLICK FOR DETAILS:1971 Fiat 124 Spider

1971 Fiat spider sport 124 fiat red on black - best combination I think car looks and drives like the day it came off assembly line everything look great including to the engine bay own by same collector for decades always stored inside never driven in elements car was repainted its original color years back all trim was removed polished and reassembled no rust or road corosion upon removale of trim when painting

I love the simplicity of the earlier 124 Spider; while the later Fiat Spiders may have gained power, hood bulges and wider tires, to me the early model looks great. There is a touch of MGB but also Ferrari in the design; while that sounds a bit crazy the combination somehow works and really looks special. While prices have generally been on the rise for these models over the past few years, they're still quite cheap compared to what a similar Mercedes-Benz SL would bring; expect this reserve for this car to be priced in the mid-teens. Sure, that buys you a much more reliable Miata; but then, if you wanted a Miata you wouldn't be reading this, would you?

-Carter

Abarth, Fiat, Zagato

1960 Fiat Abarth 750GT Zagato Sestriere

March 26, 2014 Graham

One of the more memorable Abarth models are the so-called "Double Bubble" models; those "Bubbles" are the giant intake scoops that adorn the rear of the car to suck air in to feed that monster powerhouse 750cc Fiat-sourced motor. Okay, so it's not the fastest car in the world; but these little Italian coupes still were formidable race machines with good balance, lightweight and tenacity. Despite a great reputation, their polarizing looks have kept them much more affordable than equivalent Porsche models like the 356. Today, there's a nice 1960 example on Ebay:

Year: 1960
Model: 750 GT Zagato
Engine: 0.75 liter inline-4
Transmission: 4-speed manual
Mileage: 86,571 mi
Price: Reserve Auction

CLICK FOR DETAILS:1960 Fiat Abarth 750 GT Zagato

960 Fiat Abarth 750 GT Zagato Sestriere
s/n 734541, engine number 100D.000 1372493
Red with Black Interior

Built using Fiat’s 600 as a basis, the Abarth 750 GT was an attractive and competitive Zagato-bodied car that helped establish Carlo Abarth’s firm as a manufacturer of sports cars and not merely tuning components, which is how the company started in the 1930s. Using the floorpan of the 600, Abarth fitted sleek and lightweight Zagato bodies and significantly revamped the motors, fitting lighted and balanced flywheels, and high performance internals including crank, high compression pistons, larger valves, upgraded valve train, and performance camshafts. The resulting displacement was 747cc instead of the 633cc of the standard engine, and nearly twice the power output.

Introduced in 1955, the cars were entered in races almost immediately and were quite successful on both sides of the Atlantic, achieving second in class at the 1956 Mille Miglia, and winning its class at the 1957 Mille Miglia. The cars also achieved class and overall victories at the 1958 and 1959 Rallye de Sestriere. Four out of five examples entered finished the 12 Hours of Sebring, one of which one its class, while another achieved second at the SCCA races at Palm Springs. As was common among Italian cars of the period, the 750 GT Zagato evolved continuously and the Sestriere variant arrived in 1959, which differed in detail and was named for the victories at the Rallye de Sestriere.

This particular example had a long term owner in Southern California for at least thirty years, and the car could be seen at the annual August festivities in Monterey for many years, having been driven up by its enthusiastic owner. Interestingly, the car is aluminum bodied, while most of this period were steel-bodied. Based on the serial number, it is likely that this car was produced in 1959, though it is titled as a 1960, likely the year in which it was first sold, which is a common practice for old cars.

Today, the car is in presentable and attractive condition, with some patina. The body is generally straight and solid, with a few minor areas of electrolysis, such as on the right C pillar and right rocker panel. There is a dent under the right headlamps and one in the right door as well. The body is straight with good fit, likely as good as if not better than when new. The paintwork is in good shape and is reasonably high quality, with some orange peel and a few signs of wear in the form of chips and small scratches. There is some checking present on the roof. The chrome is generally very good, although the hubcaps show some patina. The glass is in good shape, with minor wear to the windscreen. The car has Year of Manufacture yellow license plates.

The interior condition is consistent with the exterior, with strong overall presentation but some patina. The upholstery is in very good shape, while the carpets are good. The dashboard is nice, with lovely Jaeger Abarth instruments. The trim and controls are in good shape. The door weather seals have perished.

The engine compartment is very clean and has a vintage appearance with no untoward or inappropriate modernizations. It is fairly well-detailed and the motor appears to have been well-maintained. The engine is built on a 100D block, indicating it is a Fiat 600D motor. The front compartment is solid and has seen some restoration work in areas, but is unrestored in others. The spare and windscreen washer fluid bag are in place.

This is an extremely rare opportunity to acquire a Zagato-bodied Abarth with longtime California history. Fundamentally excellent, this example is in nice driver condition and can be driven and enjoyed as is, or sympathetically restored.

TERMS AND CONDITIONS: This car is sold AS IS without warranty. A 10% deposit is due upon the successful completion of the auction. Remainder of payment is due within one week of the end of the auction, and prior to the delivery of the vehicle. Fantasy Junction reserves the right to end this auction early in the even of the sale of the car outside of eBay. Inspection is available and encouraged, and should be arranged and completed prior to the completion of bidding. A final bid (if reserve is met) is and should be considered a sale and acceptance of terms, and the vehicle is AS IS and WHERE IS. If you have NEGATIVE or ZERO feedback, please contact us prior to bidding. Please contact us for names and phone numbers of local professionals familiar with this type of car, whom you may interview and with whom you may arrange an inspection. If you are concerned with what the car may need, an inspection is an excellent way to remove surprises. Please allow for normal wear and tear items based on the age of any car and restoration if applicable. Please use your better (or even your best) judgment. We have done and will do our best to describe the car faithfully and correctly, and would like you to know and understand exactly what you are bidding on.

I like that these cars have been driven and used - it's a nice change from the stereotypical roll the car out of a trailer for the show. As a result of that, it's not a perfect example; there's some botched paintwork and the shine on everything isn't condition one. But it certainly makes a special and unique driver in the current state. The best part is that you can get into a neat Abarth 750GT like this one for around the same price as a wreck of a 356; they share a lot of characteristics, but if you want to save a bit of money and stand apart from the crowd, the Abarth is the way to go!

-Carter

Lancia

1977 Lancia Autobianchi A112 Abarth

March 19, 2014 Graham

While the Volkswagen GTi is generally credited with starting the "hot hatch" phenomena of the 1980s, the reality is that long before Volkswagen even started to move towards watercooled, front engined cars there were others that embodied the blueprint of the GTi; lightweight, hunkered down, bigger wheels and more power hatches. Of particular note was one small car produced by the Fiat group - the Autobianchi A112. Turned up a notch by the gurus at Abarth, the A112 Abarth was fitted with a higher output 1.0 inline-4, some neat looking alloys and if you bought a later example, you even got a 5-speed manual transmission. Today there's a nicer example that's lived a traveled life but is now available in the U.S. for sale:

Year: 1977
Model: A112
Engine: 1.0 liter inline-4
Transmission: 5-speed manual
Mileage: 58,566 mi
Price: $17,000

CLICK FOR DETAILS:1977 Lancia Autobianchi A112 Abarth

This is one of the 15 A112 Abarths imported to Norway. I have had this car since 1986, has done 58,566 since new (1977). it has never seen mechanic in its life
in 1991 I changed the air intake to K&N, in 1997 I had painted the car ( Original paint from Lancia / Fiat ) in UK, in 1999 just before I brought it to US I changed the clutch and exhaust ( all Abarth parts )
since I brought it to US I have done about 800 mile with it, it is regestered in NJ, USA since 2003.
Please if you have any questions you can contact me on +1 914 450 2353

EXTERA

- Original front seats
- Original Air intakes
- Original front bumper
- 4, 14" Mini lights wheels from UK about 8 years ago
- Extra side mirror
- New Strut bar from Italia

The naming on these cars is interesting; in some markets they were sold under the Autobianchi name, others utilized Fiat naming and finally some markets got Lancia names. This car looks to be reasonably presented, though there is some rusting that appears in areas and probably needs attention sooner rather than later. The seats also look quite out of place, though the ad states that the original seats are included. On our sister site German Cars For Sale Blog, we've watched quite recently as original examples of the U.S. spec GTi have pushed into the high teens - coincidentally, the asking price of this car, too. Taking into account the rarity of this car, the price could be in line with the top of the market; but I'd be worried longer term about what aspects of the rust need attention and a careful PPI would be in order before forking over $17,000 for this hot Italian hatch.

-Carter

Fiat

Abarth Racer Heaven: 1962 and 1963 1000GTs

March 17, 2014 Graham 2 Comments

On our sister site, German Cars For Sale Blog, we do a weekly feature called "Motorsports Monday" in which we cover some sort of track, road race or rally prepared German vehicle. But while the Germans have a strong history in motorsports, the Italians are right there with them. Indeed, Fiat, Lancia and Alfa Romeo was racing some of the earliest German sports cars well back before World War II, and it's the reputation of manufacturers Fiat, Lancia, Ferrari and more recently Lamborghini in racing that have helped to build their loyal customer base. But even more recent to pop back up in the market was the name Abarth; though relatively unknown in the United States, Abarth has been producing some of the hottest small Italian cars for decades; modifying everything from Fiats and Lancias right through Porsches. Today I have two race-bred, Fiat powered 1000GT Coupes to cover, both with impressive resumes and in even more impressive condition. Let's start with the 1962:

Year: 1962
Model: 1000GT
Engine: 1.0 liter inline-4
Transmission: 4-speed manual
Mileage: Not Listed
Price: Reserve Auction

CLICK FOR DETAILS:1962 Abarth 1000GT

PLEASE read all of the listing.

If you have any questions, please inquire.

Some bidders are not seeing all the photos. I use my own photo service so they are larger and shown below. Please scroll all the way down.

Description: 1962 Abarth 1000GT Bi-Albero (twin cam) round tail, serial number 112798, ex Briggs Cunningham team car, 2nd in the 1962 Sebring race driven by Walt Hansgen, extremely original and extensively documented. This car and the two other Abarths I am listing are in immaculate and professionally restored condition, very correct and in perfect working order. We invite any seriously interested party to view the car in person, it is located in Nashua, NH, USA. For any further questions or my telephone number please feel free to contact me via e-mail. The reserve will not be disclosed but is realistic for this rare, beautiful and important car..

Has clear NH title. Sold as is as seen with no warranties expressed or implied.

$2000.00 deposit required within 24 hours of winning bid and balance thru bank transfer or at time of pickup as long as funds clear. Buyer responsible for shipping but we can help with logistics. Will ship world wide.

If you didn't know or follow racing, Sebring 12 hours was this past weekend; and while there were no Abarths in the field they were a staple of late 1950s, early 1960s sports car racing. Another name that was equally famous, if not more so in the United States, was that of Briggs Cunningham - he pioneered racing not only here but in Europe as well, taking his custom made Cunninghams to Le Mans amongst other races. The connection shows in the white with blue stripe Cunningham colors, a testament to the American connection - those are the racing colors of the United States. As a professionally restored original race car, it's absolutely beautiful and carries the requisite Abarth trunk open shape; a characteristic that was uniquely solved by Bertone in 1963:

If the 1962 above is a neat car, the 1963 is both neat and pretty. The sloping rear deckline is a much more attractive solution to getting the hot air out of the engine bay. As with the 1962, this car's condition is impressively restored and it also carries an impressive race history:

Year: 1963
Model: 1000GT
Engine: 1.0 liter inline-4
Transmission: 4-speed manual
Mileage: Not Listed
Price: Reserve Auction

CLICK FOR DETAILS:1963 Abarth 1000GT

PLEASE read all of the listing.

If you have any questions, please inquire.

Some bidders are not seeing all the photos. I use my own photo service so they are larger and shown below. Please scroll all the way down.

Description: 1963 Abarth 1000GT Bi-Albero (twin cam) duck tail, serial number 129-0247, very successfully campaigned Bi-Albero (Enna, Monza, G.P. of Garda/Salo, Trento-Bondone, etc. etc.) by Gianfranco Rovetta. This Abarth is also in perfect working order and has been restored to its original 1963 factory color and specifications.This and the two other Abarths I am listing are in professionally restored condition, very original and in perfect working order. The after market wood steering wheel visible in the photo has meanwhile been replaced with a correct and original 3 spoke Abarth wheel and horn button like the one visible in the 1962 1000GT Bi-Albero. We invite any seriously interested party to view the car in person, it is located in Nashua, NH, USA. For any further questions or my telephone number please feel free to contact me via e-mail. The reserve will not be disclosed but it is realistic for this rare, beautiful and important car.

Has clear NH title. Sold as is as seen with no warranties expressed or implied.

$2000.00 deposit required within 24 hours of winning bid and balance thru bank transfer or at time of pickup as long as funds clear. Buyer responsible for shipping but we can help with logistics. Will ship world wide.

Either of these cars would be very welcome at both shows and on the Vintage race circuit, where their unique bubble profiles stand out a bit from the traditional 1960s cars. Value on these cars, due to their top condition and histories, will likely far exceed the normal top of the market on these around $60,000 - but that's still well short of the current 356 factory racer market, for what it's worth, where correct original Porsche race cars can easily pop into the millions. As such, these Abarths offer similar experiences and a unique bit of history, along with a boatload of character for a relative bargain. Plus, they're just super cool.

-Carter

Fiat

1967 Fiat Dino

March 8, 2014 Graham 1 Comment

When it comes to Italian cars, Ferrari still captivates the imaginations of enthusiasts and non-enthusiasts alike. Seemingly synonymous with being Italian, the red cars from Maranello have created a legend in an of themselves. In recent years, even cars that are more loosely related or which traditionally weren't considered "true" Ferraris have experienced a surge in pricing, lifting them out of the reach of most enthusiasts who want to experience a taste of that Italian emotion in engineering. For example, the lowly Dino - a car not considered worthy enough to carry the Ferrari name for some time - has recently surpassed pricing of many of its more powerful and traditionally more desirable V12 brethren; if you want to get into a 1967 Dino 206GT these days, you better have at least $300,000 on hand for a decent example.

What's perhaps even more amazing is that one of the cars that shares the Dinos underpinnings - the Lancia Stratos - is even more expensive. For a decent Stratos these days, plan on freeing up about $400,000. But there is one more car that shared that Ferrari DNA, and it's not nearly as expensive as its slinky cousins; the Fiat Dino. Indeed, it was the Fiat that allowed both the Ferrari version and the Stratos to be created later, and was the development platform for the 2.0 V6 engine that was also used in Formula 2 racing. Available in either coupe or convertible, it was a handsomely styled GT by Bertone in Coupe version, like today's example:

Year: 1967
Model: Dino
Engine: 2.0 liter V6
Transmission: 5-speed manual
Mileage: 105,215 (?) km (~ 65,377 mi)
Price: Reserve auction

CLICK FOR DETAILS:1967 Fiat Dino

1967 Fiat Dino finished in Red over Black interior. This RARE 1967 early 2.0 Liter V6 had a full restoration completed in late 2008. A no expense spared restoration produced this stunning vehicle. It sits on R Cromodora alloy wheels wrapped in Pirelli P3000 tires. A Blaupunkt cassette Stereo. Highly optioned from the factory with such things as RARE full power windows. The interior was re-wrapped in period correct leather and shows well. A full mechanical re-build took place as well, with less than 500 miles on the total restoration since completed. Fully service and ready to go to its new home. An investment vehicle that is ONLY on the upward swing.

1967 FIAT Dino finished in Red over Black interior. Fiat introduced its 2-liter Dino at the 1966 Turin Motor Show, a collaboration between the giant Italian automaker and its chic counterpart, Ferrari. A smart-looking 2+2 coupe designed by Bertone. The name is derived from Enzo Ferrari's son Alfredo, nicknamed Dino, who collaborated in the mid-1950s with the legendary engineer Vittorio Jano on a lightweight aluminum V6. A decade later, Ferrari planned to use this engine to power its F2 race cars. Homologation was necessary, however, and Fiat, with its mass-production capabilities, was a natural fit to get the engine into as many cars as such homologation required, in this case 500. A Ferrari powerplant couldn't just be shoved into any old Fiat so the Dino was produced.The entities enlisted Bertone, who was responsible for the coupe. The body styles are uniquely proportioned, front-engine, rear-wheel-drive cars. The coupe’s reception was favorable as it fit its skin a bit better thanks to its increased 2+2 wheelbase.The coupe featured luxuries like power windows, split folding rear seats, and rear window breathers that opened automatically depending on the car's speed. It also featured a lovely wood dash with big gauges and nifty switches, and a supple leather interior. The massaged, road-going 2.0-liter V6 delivered 160 hp and was mated to a Ferrari 5-speed transmission. It was the same power plant that Ferrari employed in its own mid-engined 206 Dino GT. These cars were lauded in period for their performance, especially as they were essentially Ferraris underneath, but at a fraction of the cost. Dino production ceased in June 1972. In all, ONLY 3,670 2.0 coupes were produced in its life time. Rust has claimed many cars, and these days they are a rare sight!! But when you consider the Ferrari DNA that runs through them, these Fiats are serious contenders as economical exotics.

If they were a budget Ferrari back when they were new, they're even moreso today. The convertibles - styled by Pininfarina - are generally considered more desirable, as are the later run 2.4 cars that were assembled in Maranello. Despite this then being the least desirable of the lot, this none-the-less looks like a spectacular example. I'd prefer tan leather to this version's black interior, but it's well presented and looks nice. The same can be said for the red exterior, which is classic Italian in shade but wouldn't be my first choice. This car has undergone a recent restoration which should take most of the guesswork out of ownership if it was done properly, and buying one that's done is certainly cheaper than attempting to buy a bad example and doing it yourself. Despite that, the pricing of this example is absolute top of the market for 2.0 Dino Coupes; Hagerty places a condition 1 show car at around $46,000 right now, and even then that's taking into account the recent spike in prices on these cars. Like the Dino and Stratos cousins, these cars are on the upswing and are likely being pulled upwards by their rare cousins. Does that make this car a good deal? Well, in relation to the others it's at least a car you could buy and enjoy driving without worrying that someone would crash into you trying to take a picture and ruin the value. It's an understated but pretty GT which offers all of that Italian emotion and design in a package that can still be grabbed by mere mortals. For that, we're thankful!

-Carter

Fiat

1971 Fiat 500L

December 3, 2013 Graham 3 Comments

Just a few years ago, Fiat was one of those brands that was a figment of the past in the US. But now with a second, larger model accompanying the retro styled 500, a new Italian car has become closer than it ever was since the mid 1990s. With this new 500 has brought a bit of nostalgia for the old variant. This 500L for sale in Ontario, Canada has a brand new motor and has been repainted in its original color.

Year: 1971
Model: 500L
Engine: 650cc inline-2
Transmission: 4-speed manual
Mileage: 84,000 mi
Price: $14,000

CLICK FOR DETAILS:1971 Fiat 500L

1971 FIAT 500 L model. This car is a completely restored example of a 500L. The motor has been replaced with a brand new 650 cc Fiat motor and a brand new transmission. It was an original black car, so colours are correct for the vehicle. It runs and drives great, and is a blast to drive. It gets a ton of attention wherever it goes!!

From the looks of it, this appears to be a decent enough bargain at the price, given that some of the best 500s can fetch over $20,000 these days. If you live in an urban area but can't bear the thought of driving a modern small car, why not give one of these vintage two cylinder runabouts a shot?

-Paul

Fiat

1975 Fiat 131S Mirafiori

December 2, 2013 Graham 5 Comments

We featured a 1979 Fiat Brava last week and I thought to myself, my oh my, finding a 131/Brava in this shape is a near impossible task these days. Well, apparently these Fiats are multiplying, because here comes an early sedan variant for sale in New York in a decidedly seventies color.

Year: 1979
Model: 131S Mirafiori
Engine: 1.8 liter inline-4
Transmission: 3-speed automatic
Mileage: 40,361 mi
Price: $5,900

CLICK FOR DETAILS:1975 Fiat 131S Mirafiori

1975 FIAT 131 S MIRAFIORI ... 40,361 Original Miles

Engine: 4 Cyl, 1.8L
Transmission: Auto
Exterior: Green
Interior: Brown
Body Style: Sedan
VIN: 131A30046560

This ONE OWNER, ARIZONA BEAUTY looks almost as good as when it came from the factory in 1975. Engine is in good shape, does not smoke, does not leak, nice and quiet. Our mechanics performed basic tune-up on this car and an oil change. Automatic transmission feels perfect, shifts without any problems, without delay, and without noise. Suspension is in excellent shape, car tracks nice and straight. We have replaced brakes on this beauty. There is no evidence of any electrical problems.

The exterior is in excellent shape for a 1975. The paint looks original with absolutely no rust anywhere on the car. Vinyl seats, carpet floor and glass are all in great shape. Our upholstery shop has installed brand new vinyl seats. They have took extra care to keep the original design. Interior of this car is nice and clean. This FIAT has 4 matching brand new tires that are mounted on good straight rims.

It will be sold with a clear title and it will be sold as-is, where-is.

Compared to the two door Brava we featured last week, this 131S has some pluses and minuses. While this sedan variant has covered a lot less miles over the years, the GM sourced 3-speed automatic will sap a lot of the fun out of the driving experience. I should know, as my mother owned a 1978 131S coupe with this very transmission when I was a young kid. These Fiats aren't exactly the most collectable of valued Italian cars, so I would suspect swapping in a 5-speed manual gearbox wouldn't affect the value all that much. Even more so than the silver two-door featured last week, this has to be the best 131/Brava I have seen for sale in the US in the past several years.

-Paul

Fiat

1979 Fiat Brava

November 19, 2013 Graham 3 Comments

It’s going on almost two years since Fiat reentered the US new car market. While sales got off to a slower start than expected, there has been enough of a warm reception for the company to release a second model, the 500L, aimed at those seeking a bit larger of a package than the 500. Before Fiat left the US market in the early 1980s though, their larger offering was a bit more car like than crossover, the 131 which was later renamed the Brava. A decided square, three box design, the Brava was offered in four-door, estate and a two-door coupe variant, like the one we see here for sale in Washington state.

Year: 1979
Model: Brava
Engine: 2.0 liter inline-4
Transmission: 5-speed manual
Mileage: 168,000 mi
Price: Reserve auction

CLICK FOR DETAILS:1979 Fiat Brava

Arizona garaged survivor. No hit body taken to bare metal. Base coat clear coat original color paint. Original interior in great shape. No crack dash. New headliner and sunroof. Front seats need to be reupholstered. 2 Lt engine with 1800 head. 5 Speed, power disc brakes, rack and pinion steering

New:
Clutch/cable/bearing
Braking system
Cooper CS4 radials
Alignment
Exhaust System
Carpet
Wheel bearings
Front Spoiler
Momo Steering Wheel

Comes with super tuner stereo, needs speakers. Drives great, tight, smooth and peppy. I can be reached by phone for questions/additional information.

Tim
206-940-1524

Finding a 131 or Brava in good shape these days is near impossible, as many succumb to rust and other mechanical maladies that put them out of commission. This one is a survivor, however, and is thankfully equipped with the manual gearbox to get the most out of the twin cam, four cylinder engine. The color here is also one that doesn’t seem dated. The front seats could certainly benefit from a professional retrim and the aftermarket sunroofs leaves me a bit uneasy, as they can often leak. But this is a very presentable Brava and a great classic Fiat for those not necessarily into the more popular 124 Spider or mid-engine X1-9. Given the condition and rarity, this one may push close to the $4,000 mark and is a nice jumping off point if you were feeling industrious and sought to build an 131 Abarth clone.

-Paul

Fiat, Revisit

1973 Fiat 130 Coupe – REVISIT

October 29, 2013 Graham 3 Comments

The Fiat 130 Coupe in Florida that we have featured back in May is back up for sale, with the price lowered by a few thousand dollars. I think we're getting right near the sweet spot of what a car like this will bring in the US market.

The below post originally appeared on our site May 30, 2012:

The Fiat 130 Coupe is probably one of the greatest cars you've never heard of. Only 1,803 of these crisply tailored coupes were built between 1971 and 1977. This car helped to revive business at Pininfarina and blazed a trail some automakers that would shift to more squared off styling in the decade to come. These cars weren't sold new in the US, but a few made their way stateside, like this 5-speed manual equipped example for sale in Georgia.

Year: 1973
Model: 130 Coupe
Engine: 3.2 liter V6
Transmission: 5-speed manual
Mileage: 71,955 miles
Price: $25,900 Buy It Now

CLICK FOR DETAILS:1973 Fiat 130 Coupe - REVISIT

In the USA when we think of Fiat the last thing that comes to mind is a full size luxury car. In the early 1970s Fiat created the 130, which was a luxury model to compete with the likes of Mercedes Benz and BMW. The 130 was fitted with a V6 engine developed by Ferrari engine designer Aurelio Lampredi. A bland looking four door salon was introduced in 1969 of which 15,039 were produced. In 1971 a beautiful 2 door coupe, designed by Pininfarina was introduced of which 4,294 were built. The 130 was not imported into the USA therefore they are very rare in this country.

The 1973 Fiat 130 Pininfarina coupe is loaded with luxury features such as real wood trims, courtesy lights everywhere, rear shades, adjustable steering, power windows, ZF power steering and dual horns. There is even a lever for the driver to open the passenger door remotely! Most 130 had automatic transmission; this car has the rare ZF 5-speed gearbox. This was the same gearbox used on the 2.4 liter Dinos. Also most 130 had velour interior, this car has the optional leather interior which is in excellent condition. Beautiful wood Nardi wheel and modern MP3 radio.This car also has the optional factory installed air conditioner, which works and blows cold.

This car is in overall very good condition. The body is straight and rust free with no signs of prior accident. The dark blue paint is very nice and presents itself well. The deep red interior is really luxurious and nice, especially considering the age of the car. Mechanically the engine has very good compression with 155 psi across all cylinders. The clutch was just replaced. Car runs, brakes, and steers as it should.

The Fiat 130 is a really good driving car and feels more like a sports car than a full size coupe. The engine is very peppy and the 5-speed gearbox has short throws. With power steering and independent suspension it handles very sporty. In fact, the gearbox and suspension uses most of the same components as the very sporty Fiat Dino. The V6 Dino engine was also designed by Lampredi and is a close cousin to the 130 engine.

This is a very exclusive and rare car in remarkably good condition. A unique opportunity to acquire a car that is fun to drive and will be a hit at your next Italian car gathering. In case you are wondering why I am selling this car ... I have a second 130 coupe which I am keeping.

Feel free to call me if you have questions: 770-998-0923 Ivan

Last year, we featured a 1973 Fiat 130 Coupe with an automatic transmission that was listed at $41,900. This car is priced much more realistically, and I wouldn't be surprised if it sells quickly at the asking price of $29,000. You would probably be the only one in your state with a coupe like this, and the 5-speed manual gearbox adds a bit more involvement to the formula. If I had the cash, I'd eschew the Mercedes-Benz SLC coupe, a car I like very much, for this Fiat. The Pininfarina styling still looks stunning 40 years on.

-Paul