Description
This diminutive beauty makes an ideal entry level classic for car meets and shows, while also being capable of much greater adventures!
Professionally prepared and ready to enter Classic touring/ Historic rally events, this is an opportunity to own a rare and genuine Fiat 850 Special in right hand drive.
The "Special" was the range topping edition of the saloon, benefiting from the addition of disc brakes and the more powerful engine as shared with the coupe and convertible variants. Imported into the UK from the warm and dry South African climate in 2018, the car underwent extensive restoration and upgrades with the intention of competing in HERO-ERA Historic rallies. Sadly, despite many thousands of pounds being spent replacing or refurbishing almost every component, it is believed that due to ill health, the then owner only entered a couple of events before the car was sold on.
The majority of preparation has been carried out by respected Abarth/ Fiat experts, Middle Barton Garage. I purchased the car in 2023 and "Doris" has since returned to MBG for an engine build. The mildly tuned engine now sports a fast road camshaft together with enlarged pistons while running on an original Weber 30 DiC twin choke carburetor.
While remaining faithful and true to her Fiat 850 Special heritage, in 2025 the car was invited by the Historic Abarth group to take part in demonstration sessions at both Festival Italia - Brands Hatch and Mallory Park, where the terrific grip and handling enabled the car to hold her own against the race bred exotica.
Recently, Prodrive, the legendary race and rally organisation featured the car on their social media platforms where it was a huge hit after it was spotted during a visit to their premises.
Specification
Engine:
MBG Fiat 850cc engine - Fast road camshaft and enlarged pistons.
Wosp Starter motor
Suspension:
Spax adjustable dampers
Performance springs
MBG "Campagnola" 5. 5 13" wheels, including spare.
Bushes etc replaced.
Interior/ Exterior:
Abarth style bucket seats
Veglia rev counter
Brantz Rallymeter
Lifeline fire extinguisher
Hella Rally lights
Floor pan and suspension are structurally sound
Body and paint is good to very good for a 60's car while not being "concours". Keen observers may note the rare and desirable rear quarter lights. These are original spec for African market cars.
The car comes with is a comprehensive file detailing work and costs on the car from 2018 onwards.
Selling due to house sale (loss of garage space).
