Highlights
- Former Italian museum exhibit
- Imported to the UK in 2012
- Over £12,000 spent on repairs since
- Used sparingly since restoration
- Part of a no expense spared private collection
The Appeal
It’s a testament to the ‘rightness’ of the design for Fiat’s 1100 that this post-war family saloon stayed on sale for over 15 years after its debut at the 1953 Geneva Motor Show. Introducing advanced features like a monocoque design and a cabin heater, the 1100 proved its strength in Mille Miglia, with its durability honed on the driveways of homes across Europe.
This particular car was manufactured in 1955 and stayed in Italy for most of its life, including many years serving as a museum exhibit, during which time it barely turned a wheel. It was imported to the UK in 2012 and sold at a Coys auction at Blenheim Palace to the current owner. Since then, a comprehensive refurbishment of many mechanical, electrical and perishable parts has been undertaken, with particular focus on the brakes. A portfolio of receipts and invoices collectively indicates a maintenance spend in excess of £12,000, though the reward for these endeavours is clear.
Stepping inside this car whisks you straight back to a time when its Bakelite fittings, central pillar doors and bench seats were in vogue. Nor is it as spartan as you might imagine, offering a heater, rear courtesy lights, a locking petrol cap and an illuminated rearview mirror among other features. Some internal fabrics will require attention, in particular the door cards, while there are signs of historic repairs across one of the lower door sills.
In short this lovely honest little fiat is nicely presented, its had a lot of expenditure on mechanicals ensuring it drives as it should, but as with most, there is room for improvements should the lucky new owner want to add their own personal touches to the car.
In short this lovely honest little fiat is nicely presented, its had a lot of expenditure on mechanicals ensuring it drives as it should, but as with most, there is room for improvements should the lucky new owner want to add their own personal touches to the car.
The History and Paperwork
- Fiat Motor Club GB letter confirming 1955 origins
- Used sparingly and regularly exhibited at car shows
- Retains original plaques and stickers
- Imported to the UK in 2012
- Chassis number 161553
The Condition
- Celluloid two-spoke steering wheel
- Two-tone upholstery only lightly patinaed
- Original toggle and pull switches on dash
- Exterior chrome and paint in good condition
- Surface corrosion on wingmirror and door sill
The Mechanics
- 1089cc engine originally produced 48 bhp
- Engine bay appears clean and corrosion-free
- Underside of car in extremely good order
- Brakes have been extensively upgraded
- Mechanical repairs by specialist Fiat garages
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