***Vendor supplied images***
Highlights
- One owner since arriving in Netherlands in 2001
- Continuous investment in bodywork and mechanicals
- Desirable mid 70s model with uprated 1.8litre engine
- Retrimmed and resprayed since 2003
- APK to March 2024
- Stylish and very usable Italian convertible
The Appeal
Designed by Pininfarina and with a motor engineered by an ex-Ferrari man, it is easy to see why Fiat’s 124 Spider remained in production for nearly 20 years.
The car only lightly changed during that time with the mid-70s being a particular sweet spot for enthusiasts. That’s when the car got the 1.8litre version of the Lampredi twin cam, delivering 115bhp. Only the low volume Abarth and Volumex models pumped out more.
This is one of those high power 1.8litre cars, fitted with oversize high compression pistons to further boost performance. In the hands of the same owner since its arrival in the Netherlands in March 2001 it has been used regularly but sparingly since and treated to ongoing maintenance and improvements.
Smart, solid and very usable, this is a great opportunity to acquire a clearly much-loved Italian classic.
The History and Paperwork
- Originally sold new into America
- Licencing records show first registration on 28th February 1974
- Imported from California to Netherlands in March 2001
- Acquired by the seller on 8th March 2001
- Always stored inside
- APK to 30th March 2024
- Sparingly used by seller, covering only a few hundred kms per year
Notable maintenance work since arriving in the Netherlands:
- Resprayed in black in 2003
- Gearbox rebuilt in 2004
- Seats retrimmed and roof replaced in 2008
- Electronic ignition fitted in 2016
- Abarth-style 13in rims and new tyres fitted in 2017
- Timing belt replaced in 2019
- Rear brake distributor and cylinders renewed in 2021
The Condition
- Looks handsome in smart black which was professionally applied in 2003
- Straight panels with no visible corrosion to bodywork
- Good panel fit, particularly across doors and boot
- Sits smartly on 13in Abarth-style alloy wheels with quality tyres showing good tread
- Underside continues the theme and is well kept with good sheen of underseal
- High quality black mohair roof fitted in 2008 and retaining excellent condition
- Roof has clear panels and no visible creasing
- Stylish chrome luggage rack fitted into boot lid
- Usefully fitted with a see-through windshield that is said to work very well
- Standard and well kept interior with retrimmed black leather seats and blue carpets
- Trim, seats and fittings in good order with few signs of age or deterioration
- Small rear bench suitable for stowage and with trim pattern matching front seats
- Veneers present well across dashboard, only the centre console shows light cracking
- Clear, well kept Veglia dials with MPH speedometer
- Driver’s door shows very minor paint flaking to bottom edge
- There is also a small nick in the door card at the top
- Two spoke factory wood-rimmed steering wheel with Fiat centre boss with light crack
- Boot area in similar condition to rest of car with clean vinyl trim
- Factory non-matching steel spare in boot
- Modern stereo fitted
- Small but not unsightly cracks to dash top
The Mechanics
- 1.8litre Fiat twin cam Lampredi engine developing 115bhp in standard trim
- Uprated with oversized high compression pistons to improve performance
- 5spd gearbox which was rebuilt in 2004
- Timing belt replaced in 2019
- Attention to rear brakes in 2021
- Used regularly but sparingly by vendor
BEFORE YOU BUY
This sale is subject to the Car & Classic Terms and Conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following:
✓ If the seller is registered as a private seller, consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not apply. Car & Classic’s return policy applies.
✓ A non-refundable deposit will be payable if you are the winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted, refer to FAQs and T&Cs for details.
✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is, Where Is’ basis and without warranty. A full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase and bidding is highly recommended. Photos and descriptions are for guidance purposes only.
✓ VAT is included in the buyer's deposit. VAT may or may not be included in the final bid or offer price, as specified in the listing.
✓ Buyers are responsible for vehicle collection or delivery. Importing vehicles may result in additional customs duties and import taxes. On request, Car & Classic may refer you to a third-party shipping company. For more details, email auctions@carandclassic.com. Prices start at €150+VAT within the same country or €400+VAT for moves across borders.
