Descrição
- Extremely rare RHD example
- Fully restored motorcar
- Upgraded Fiat performance parts & bespoke Italian wicker seats
The Vignale Gamine is a small rear-engined car produced by Carrozzeria Vignale from 1967 to 1971, based on the Fiat 500. Unlike the 500, the Gamine had an open-top roaster structure and only two seats. The Gamine was Alfredo Vignale's baby project but lacklustre performance from Fiats 2-cylinder, air-cooled engine of 500cc stifled sales. Estimates in specialist circles vary from 200 to as many as 800 being manufactured in the late 1960s. These unique-bodied examples caught the eye of London based Greek-Cypriot entrepreneur Frixos Demetrious who started to import these quirky two-seater roadsters into the UK after its debut at the October 1968 Earls Court Motor show.
My Gamine underwent a full nut and bolt restoration using its original panels, during the my ownership across the last 15 years. The restoration was highly detailed and photograph records are included. The bodywork prior to the restoration was in good condition, which I kept the original factory paintwork colour-scheme with all the chromed parts restored. Since this rebuild, the car has only been driven 350 miles and has been dry stored in Richmond. The car benefited from several sensible and attractive upgrades, including a Fiat 650cc engine giving an improvement in power with the aim to make the car more practical and enjoyable to use. I also had bespoke wicker seats hand-crafted by a specialist in Sorrento, Italy.
A rare, original right-hand drive example that has been in cherished and knowledgeable ownership, and is consequently is presented in outstanding collectors condition.
