*Please note that these photographs have been supplied by the vendor*

Highlights

Exceptionally rare - one of only three known examples ever built
Three traceable owners in Italy from 2019, and only one German owner
Designed by the legendary Pietro Frua
Valid TUV until April 2025

The Appeal

While the classic Fiat 600 needs no introduction, this particular example demands a little more elaboration. In 1956, the legendary Frua coachbuilders turned out only three of what has become known as the ‘Gentleman’ - a stylish, retro-futuristic little coupe that looked more like the likes of a Loewy-designed Studebaker than it did a 600.

Plastered in his signature branding, with the unusual feature of a centre-mounted fog lamp, this curvaceous beauty is a truly rare machine. From the subtle scoop on the ‘frunk’ lid, to those eyecatching A-Frame bumpers, you’re not likely to see another Fiat like this one.

With only four owners in its venerable history, this incredibly rare little car is a real looker through and through - the sort of once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that we’re sure any enthusiast would covet.

The History and Paperwork

First built and registered in 1956
The vendor believes the car has been repainted during its time in Italy
This is likely to be an older paint job, so it’s garnered a level of suitable patina
From what the vendor is aware, the rest of the car is completely unmodified
Matching numbers example with ASI gold plate
Arrived in Germany in 2023 after which it was inspected
The car now has a TUV valid until April 2025
Sadly there’s no paperwork for the car’s time in Italy, however, the German file includes:
- Current registration paperwork
- TUV certificate
- Import paperwork

The Interior

Impressively presented interior
Black leather seats and door cards
Rare Frua-branded steering wheel

While it’s a big ask for a particular level of luxury from the Fiat 600, we’d argue that the Gentleman is more than capable of providing it. This thoughtfully designed interior still features the essential hallmarks of the painted metal dashboard, tidy cluster and tactile switches, but is presented with plenty of branding, of personality - of pure Pietro-style colour combinations and accenting. The result is a far more cosseting little cabin that embraces the ‘gentleman’ persona.

Everything here is in fine fettle. The black leather-wrapped seats are in fine condition with no significant rips or tears, and carry only the gentlest level of sag and creasing. It’s a very pleasant patina that creates a very distinguished tone.

The dashboard is well presented, with a good clean finish and the chromed instruments very nicely displayed, as are the tactile switches. There are the slightest areas of patina, which in our opinion only enhance the car’s heritage character. Focus must be awarded to the Seicento badge, the traditional St. Christopher applique on the driver’s side and - of course - that exceptional Frua steering wheel, with its coiled surround and branded centrepiece.

The carpets, finished in a nicely matched colour, present very well with the car, and the frunk space presents well - nicely lined in rubber with a toolkit, spare wheel and a collection of bulbs and fuses ready for use whenever needed.

The Exterior

Exceptional Pietro Frua bodywork with distinctive detailing
Impressive styled features including a front-mounted foglight and A-Frame bumpers
Highly original throughout

Where does one start with this car’s incredible bodywork? From the curvy front profile to the distinctive rear grilles, this car is so many steps beyond the Fiat 600’s usual cues that it’s simply remarkable. Conjuring up art deco themes and the likes of Loewy’s impressive futurist designs, this car really doesn’t hesitate to wear its character on its sleeve.

The red paintwork is believed by the vendor to be an older respray, though for our money it suits the car remarkably well. The respray’s age is betrayed by the occasional mark, chip or scratch, so may well require a redo if the buyer so wishes. We do note a ding or two to the bodywork, particularly behind the passenger-side door.

We do note the odd bit of fogging or wear around the car’s distinctive gold-badge branding, but it’s all present and correct and should be an easy fix. The glasswork and lenses all present well and are in good working order.

The chromework carries some patina throughout, but is in good overall condition. The distinctive bumpers, grilles and coachlines really do make this a stylish, highly appointed little car.

The car is sitting on some charming period disc wheels. Some of the photographs show the older set, which are included in the sale. The vendor notes that the wheels and tyres cost a total of 830 euros each - though a look at those white-walls and that lovely bright chrome should convince anybody it was worthwhile.

Underneath, the car’s familiar mechanics all look in good order. We can spot some light areas of corrosion, but it’s largely in excellent fettle for the car’s age, with nothing standing out as an area of concern.

The Mechanics

Powered by the venerable 633cc Tipo 100 OHV I4 engine
4-speed manual transmission
Recently serviced with a fresh German TUV

Popping open the rear hatch of this Gentleman Coupe reveals the familiar sight of the Fiat Tipo 100. This example is in good mechanical order, from what we’ve been informed, and it certainly looks the part. We’ve no reports of leaks, knocks, bangs or smoke from the engine bay, and it’s reportedly starting and running very nicely.

The car had spent quite some time static, and the engine necessitated a rebuild that’s been carried out over the past six months to a great result. With a fresh TUV running to April 2025, we see no reason that the mechanical condition of this vehicle should raise the slightest concern.

Summary

Chances are you’ll not see another of these - ever.

Exceptionally rare, fabulously styled, and still packed with the familiar, maintenance-friendly mechanics of its platform, this Seicento was ascended fresh from the factory into something truly spectacular - and is now offered to the lucky buyer as a highly original, unique survivor.

We expect this unique coach-built car to attract plenty of interest.

Any questions?

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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

Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased. Car & Classic may refer a shipping company that also deals with import/export paperwork. Prices start at €150+VAT within the same country or €400+VAT for moves across borders. For more details, email [email protected].