Descrizione
The Innocenti Coupe being the rarest and most desirable of all Austin Healey based Innocenti models, was made in very limited numbers during 1965, were sold through 1968. A total of only 487 were built approximately. The British Motor Company sold KD "knock down" Sprite chassis and running gear to Innocenti who at that time were manufacturing Lambretta motor scooters, for assembly in Italy. The Coupe's engine and running gear is all standard production BMC based Sprite components powered by the larger, 1, 098cc 4 cylinder A series engine that put out 58 horsepower at 5, 500 RPM. Carburetion is standard Sprite as well, being a pair of small bore 1 1/ 4 inch SU carbs. The same goes for its 4 speed manual gearbox, coil spring/ wishbone front suspension, solid axle and leaf springs in the rear, and Lockheed disc/ drum brake setup. The fenders on the Innocenti Coupe were wider than those on the Sprite, so the wheels required a slightly wider offset and incorporate a chrome plated hubcap with a plastic insert featuring a stylized "I" logo.
Although the Coupe's main body sub-structure is all Austin Healey, including the firewall, floor pans, and inner fenders, the entire outer shell is all Innocenti. The exterior panels were pressed and assembled by OSI and feature Italian made trim, door handles, bumpers and badges. Even the wiring harness, the fuse box and most of the electrical components are of Italian manufacture, including the taillamp assemblies, instrumentation and switches. Oddly, the generator and steering column, along with the turn signals, are Lucas pieces. A full complement of Veglia gauges are exactly the same gauges that were fitted to several Ferrari models, including the 250 GTE, California Spider and GTO.
This Innocenti Coupe was purchased and imported in 2004, from an owner in Milan, Italy. This gentleman was the president of the Innocenti club of Italy. The US purchaser was a well know historian and publisher of Austin Healey marque automobile books. He had the coupe restored by a British specialist shop in Florida. Shortly after the car's restoration was completed, it was shown at the Amelia Island Concours in 2008, and then shipped to England for a extended tour of Europe. It was driven on track at Goodwood, and then caravanned through Holland, Germany, Sweden, Denmark, later taking part in a joint meeting of the European Austin Healey clubs, held in Sweden. When the car arrived back in Florida, it was driven to western North Carolina to take part in the Austin Healey club's run on the Tail of the Dragon, and then back to Florida.
This is really a touring car that drives in a very precise manner, cornering without effort, and cruises at 65 to 70 MPH. It is comfortable on long trips, and comfortably accommodates drivers over over six feet. The styling and interior room make the Innocenti an outstanding touring car, with plenty of room for baggage in the boot and large area behind the seats. This is a very special car that can be used in vintage rallys or show events. Recent maintenance in September 2018 includes carbs rebuild, new tires, tune up, and oil/ filter fluids change. The bodywork and paint are still in excellent condition. The interior is also in super condition showing little wear and tear. The engine bay is detailed and easily considered show condition. The car comes with and original owners handbook, of course, written in Italian. The mileage showing of 77, 900 is kilometers which converts to approximately 48, 400.
Northshore Sportscars is an Authorized Morgan Dealer offering new models to all of the US. We also offer a handpicked selection of classic British and European Sports cars for sale including Alfa Romeo, Austin Healey, Jaguar, MG, Mercedes, Morgan, Lotus, Triumph, and Porsche for all budgets. Our restoration shop provides complete service and parts for all of the cars we sell.
View these quality vehicles at our indoor showroom located in Lake Bluff, Illinois. Same location for over 21 years! Please contact us at the details below and we would be happy to assist you. - details above On FACEBOOK
