Description
This motorcycle is Lot 90 to be auctioned by Bonhams at the Timed-Online June Sale, please see the Bonhams website for full details. The timed online auction runs between June 6th through June 16th, with lots closing from midday June 16th 2025.
Public Viewing:
Available 11th & 12th June 2025 from 09:00 until 17:00, by appointment only at Bonhams Milton Keynes.
Lot 90
1925 Fiat Type 501 Four-Door Torpedo
Registration no. TT3078
Chassis no. Unable to locate
Engine no. 4136517 (see text)
Fiat's first post-Armistice model, the 501, enjoyed a seven year production run with some 80, 000 or so examples leaving the factory. The engine was a conventional side-valve unit of 1, 460cc mated to a four-speed gearbox.
TT3078 was first registered in Devon in 1925 and although the early history is not documented, the (partial) accompanying old style buff log book indicates that it had at least enjoyed three previous recorded keepers in the Essex and Sussex counties before returning to the Devon/ Cornwall border in 1973 to 'Coads' Garage, Launceston and then to our vendors family in 1974. Having been stored at the the vendors family home for many years, Falmouth Coachworks Ltd were tasked in the early 2000s to restore the body to its former glory. Subsequently the mudguards and all lower panels were removed leaving the engine and body on the chassis. All were then prepared and the body finished in Cherry red water-based base coat and lacquer. The interior was then retrimmed by the vendor and all electrical components and brakes checked with new cables fitted.
The four-door, four-seat coachwork presents very well with the Cherry red livery over black wings and is equipped with a brass opening windscreen, hood and side-screens and a rear luggage carrier.
Last taxed in 2014 and unused since, the vendor advises us that he began disassembling the top end of the engine to replace the head gasket (which is included). However, due to advancing age, he was unable to complete the works. As a result, the cylinder head is loose, and the head bolts, radiator hose, spark plugs, and head gasket are currently detached.
The vehicle will therefore require recommissioning or restoration to a greater or lesser extent, along with all necessary safety checks, before it can be returned to the road, hence sold strictly as seen. It should be noted, we are unable to locate a chassis number (possibly due to heavy paint), and the engine number recorded to the V5C (11413676) differs from that fitted (4136517). Accordingly, prospective bidders must satisfy themselves as to the vehicle’s chassis and engine numbers together with the validity of the Vehicle Registration Number.
Offered with old style buff log book, and current V5C, TT3078 is a wonderful looking 1920s four-seat Tourer which will hopefully provide its new owner with many more years of happy motoring once returned to the road.
All lots are sold 'as is/ where is' and Bidders must satisfy themselves as to the provenance, condition, age, completeness and originality prior to bidding. Visit the Bonhams Motorcycles website for all pertinent auction information.
