Description
1 former UK keeper since import, HPI clear, acquired directly from a local business owner and Italian car collector. First registered in the UK on 1 August 2000 following import from Italy, this example has remained with the same owner for over 25 years. It presents with consistent long-term stewardship, supported by regular annual maintenance and careful storage. The car has covered approximately 31, 800 kilometres from new (circa 19, 700 miles), with MOT history supporting low and infrequent use throughout its life. Notably, it has never failed an MOT, with only minor advisories recorded historically, limited to typical age-related items such as suspension bushes, brake hose ageing and headlamp beam deflectors associated with imported vehicles. There are no records of structural corrosion advisories. The original purchase invoice from August 2000 is present in the folder pack.
This is a late-production 1985 Pininfarina Spider Europa, representing the final evolution of the Fiat 124 Spider following the transfer of production to Pininfarina. These later cars benefit from Bosch L-Jetronic fuel injection, improved corrosion protection over earlier Fiat-built examples and more consistent build quality. The Europa designation is less commonly seen in the UK market and is typically associated with later European-market variants, making this a less common configuration than earlier Fiat-badged cars.
Mechanically, the car is powered by a 1, 994cc inline four-cylinder petrol engine producing approximately 102 bhp and 165 Nm, paired with a 5-speed manual gearbox driving the rear wheels. Performance is period-correct, with a top speed of around 118 mph and 0–62 mph in approximately 10. 5 seconds. The Bosch fuel injection system improves usability over earlier carburettor cars, offering more reliable cold starts and smoother running.
A key point with this example is its originality. The car is described as fully original and never restored, retaining its original body, engine and core components. It has been stored in a heat-managed garage for over two decades, which is reflected in its preservation. In the current market, genuinely unrestored cars with this level of long-term ownership are increasingly difficult to source, particularly where they have not required structural intervention.
Running costs remain favourable for a classic of this type. The vehicle qualifies for historic road tax, is ULEZ exempt and benefits from relatively straightforward mechanicals with strong parts availability. Fuel consumption is typically around 28 mpg combined, with a 45-litre fuel tank.
This is a well-preserved, long-term ownership example of a late Pininfarina-built Spider, offering originality and provenance that is increasingly sought after in the classic Italian market. Please contact us to discuss the vehicle or arrange a viewing.
