Photos provided by the seller
Highlights
- Professionally restored in 2019
- Bare metal respray
- Complete mechanical rebuild
- Newly retrimmed interior
The Appeal
Unlike the more utilitarian saloon versions, the Pininfarina designed coupé and cabriolet versions of the 1500 were truly stylish and desirable sports cars. With revvy little engines and sprightly handling, they’re still much sought after as usable and elegant classics.
This pretty example was comprehensively restored in 2019, benefitting from a bare metal respray and full mechanical overhaul. As such, it now presents in very fine condition and would be a fun and stylish way to enjoy the summer sun this year.
The History and Paperwork
- First registered in 1964
- Comprehensive “engine out” restoration in 2019
- Italian Revisione to 1-7-2024
- Complete with the original handbook and a small paperwork file
- 84,714Km indicated, but this is not believed to be accurate
The Interior
- New red vinyl upholstery
- Period Grundig radio
- Fire extinguisher in passenger footwell
- Battery cut off switch
One of the lovely things about this car is how carefully and sympathetically it has been restored, and that really shows in the cabin. New red carpets and refreshed red vinyl upholstery is present and in very good condition.
Behind the front seats there is a small shelf for luggage, and a battery cut off switch has been installed here – a sensible idea in any classic car.
However, where the original trim and switchgear could be retained, it has been. So there is a lovely, warm, natural patina to the controls. The wide, wood-rimmed Nardi steering wheel looks fantastic, as does the long, canted gear lever. All of the internal brightwork looks fine, showing a little wear commensurate with the car’s age, but still displayed a healthy shine.
The vendor tells us that the only issues to note in the cabin are that the clock and fuel gauge are not working.
At the rear, the boot is generous for a small sports car, and contains a rubber load liner as well as a spare wheel, period jack and the toolkit. Under the liner, the floor looks to be in excellent condition, with no evidence of corrosion we could see.
The Exterior
- Factory correct Fiat 207 White paintwork
- Bare metal rotisserie respray
- Black canvas folding roof
Clearly, much care has been taken to restore the car to factory fresh condition, while retaining its character. A bare metal respray in the original factory white has been carried out, with any necessary welding and shell repair completed at the same time. Overall, the paint is in very good condition, with a few minor blemishes, a scratch to the lower rear valance on the passenger side, and a chip to the paint of the driver’s side door shut.
All of the bodywork looks lovely and straight, with no corrosion or damage we could identify. The lines are clean and sharp, while the panel gaps look neat and consistent. Similarly, the brightwork is in good order and appears to be original, wearing an attractive level of natural wear. On the passenger door the chrome trim is slightly kinked at one end, and the front bumper shows some pitting, but it’s nothing that would concern us at all.
The canvas roof presents very well indeed, with no evidence of UV damage, tearing or sagging that we could see. Meanwhile, the frame itself looks straight and undamaged.
Charmingly, the car is still riding on its factory correct steel wheels with polished hubcaps and a new set of tyres that the vendor tells us have just 3000 km on them. They suit the car perfectly and really finish it nicely.
Underneath, the car is exceptionally clean and tidy, with as much time and attention clearly having gone into restoring the underside as the bodywork and interior. There is absolutely no corrosion or damage that we can discern.
The Mechanics
- 1,481cc naturally aspirated four-cylinder
- Four-speed manual transmission
- Rear-wheel drive
- Extensive engine and mechanical rebuild in 2019
As part of the restoration process, the engine and other mechanical components were completely rebuilt and restored, which included new pistons, fuel pump and brake booster. Other components that have been renewed, refreshed or restored include: the exhaust system, dampers, springs, control arms, anti-roll bar, rear axle, propshaft and leaf springs.
The engine bay itself is very clean and tidy, with many of the ancillaries and hoses obviously having been replaced or refreshed.
We’re assured by the vendor that the car runs, drives, handles and brakes just as it should. They tell us that there are no leaks, smoke or untoward noises and that the car is in mechanically excellent condition.
Summary
Lovingly and carefully restored, this delicately styled Italian gem is presented in excellent condition and is ready for its new owner to enjoy. Such cars are uncommon in such good order, so we think this little cabriolet is going to make someone very happy indeed.
Notice to bidders
This item is sold on an ‘As is Where is’ basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and listing descriptions are for guidance purposes only*.** Car & Classic do not warrant listing accuracy. Full inspection is recommended. Viewings are at the seller’s discretion. Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased.*
A non-refundable buyer’s deposit is payable on this item, refer to FAQs and T&Cs for the applicable percentage.
All bidding, buying and offers are subject to our Terms and Conditions.
Shipping and transfer
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