American car designer Tom Tjaarda had more than a few designs to be proud of – the Ferrari 330 California, De Tomaso Pantera and original Ford Fiesta to name but a few of his notable works.
But one of the most enduring and certainly one of the prettiest examples was the Fiat 124 Spider, which ran from 1966 to 1985 and was built on Fiat’s behalf by Pininfarina.
As well as being sold in Europe, Fiat sold the 124 in North America where it was a credible rival to the vast number of British sports cars that dominated the market, offering usefully more interior space than an MGB or Triumph Spitfire.
Indeed, the 124’s success in the States was the main reason for its long-lived production run. By the time it grew chunky impact-resistant bumpers in 1975 to satisfy US safety legislation, over 80 per cent of Spider production was going to the USA.
In many ways, that has done wonders for the model’s survival, but the vast majority of surviving examples are US imports, which have reduced performance thanks to emissions controls, increased ride height and ugly impact bumpers.
But not this one. This is an original European supplied car, believed to be Portuguese, as that is where the previous owner sourced it, with a 1,592cc 105bhp engine and five-speed transmission. This is a genuine BS model, with single blade bumpers, European ride height, 14-inch Spider Europa alloys and small front repeaters. Unlike the American versions, usually seen, this is the model they all try to replicate. And it’s a stunner.
THE HISTORY AND PAPERWORK
UK V5C
MOT, ULEZ and tax exempt
Current MOT to August 2023, but vendor is happy to renew by arrangement
Imported in 2017 and driven back from Portugal by the previous owner
History and paperwork from all its time in the UK
Old MOTs back to 2017
Invoice for £7,973 from a respected Norfolk classic car workshop, including engine, brake and suspension overhaul
Used and enjoyed by vendor last summer but reluctantly for sale due to a hip operation
THE INTERIOR
Rich full black leather seats in very good condition
There are no rips, tears or cracks to any of the leather, door cards or dash area.
Wood-finish dash
Gorgeous wood-rimmed original steering wheel with matching gear knob
Whilst all gauges work the fuel gauge occasionally needs a tap to "wake it up"
Radio-cassette in working order, with functional electric aerial
Clock and cigar lighter currently don’t work
The only things I can see that don't work are the clock and cigarette lighter.
Everything is present and correct bar one front quarter window catch
Carpets are all good with no holes, rips or tears – clearly they have been replaced at some point in the car’s life
Small hole to centre console where some kind of light or switch was once fitted
Tonneau cover
Original jack and tools
THE EXTERIOR
Repainted prior to import in original red – Rosso Corsa
Lovely overall finish with a few very small micro-blisters, a small scratch on the NSF wing and a tiny rust bubble on one arch, smaller than a 5p coin
Top quality Sonneland hood in excellent condition
Perfectly clear rear window with no tarnishing or holes
Excellent chrome – some very small dents on offside front bumper
Underneath is in very good order, as lift photos demonstrate - no signs of previous welding or any indication that any is needed
All panels are straight and tidy and free from dents or accident damage
THE MECHANICS
Original 1.6-litre 4cyl Fiat Twin Cam
Recent engine overhaul - runs beautifully
Polybushes all-round
Good oil pressure and steady temperature
No known mechanical issues
SUMMARY
The 124 Spider is a great looking car, especially in European spec, with the further benefit of that wonderful Lampredi Twin Cam under its nose. That makes it one of the most appealing sports cars of its era, while its inherently good design also means it’s also one of the most comfortable and practical.
This one is a truly lovely classic - if you’ve got the ability to keep and preserve it as it is, then it’s a superb example of a rare car that’s guaranteed to deliver a lot of fun, as well as make a sensible future investment.
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.*
UK-registered cars and motorbikes on Car & Classic are run through an online HPI check. On the HPI report, this vehicle shows no insurance database markers for damage or theft. It is currently not covered by a finance agreement.
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