Highlights

Ultra-rare first-series example car first registered in Italy in May 1974
Stand-out Verde Chiaro paintwork with black interior
ASI Targa Oro and CRS certification both attest to originality
Retains its original black Italian license plates
Recently serviced with timing belt replacement
Registered in Italy, located in Viterbo

The Appeal

Proper blue-sky thinking doesn’t happen as often as it should in the car world, but it was absolutely intrinsic to the creation of the X1/9. Originating as the Gandini-designed Autobianchi Runabout show car, it developed into what a mix‑engined marvel that is nothing short of a mini Ferrari.

The first-series cars, with their delicate, slim bumpers, are closest to Bertone and Gandini’s vision and therefore the most sought-after variants. But thanks to rust and fragility, they are in vanishingly short supply. Those problems don’t matter to current collectors, so there is no barrier to wanting this fantastic 1974 car.

Finished in stand-out Verde Chiaro and fitted with the 1.3L version of Lampredi’s twin‑cam gem, this is a really special little car that is in great condition. It isn’t concours-grade but it is certainly tidy and usable. The authenticity is verified by ASI and CRS certification and it comes with its original black plates.

The early X1/9 is one of Italy’s most entertaining sports cars. The key point with this car is - find another one.

Key Information

Mileage: not stated or warranted
Country of registration: Italy
Technical inspection status: not stated
Technical specs: 1,290 cc four-cylinder petrol, mid-engined
Paperwork: ASI Targa Oro certificate and Certificate of Historical Relevance (CRS) present

The vendor says:

“Important notice for buyers residing abroad who need to register the purchased vehicle in a country other than Italy:

“Please enquire in advance about the methods and procedures for registering the vehicle in your country. The costs (approximately €120.00) for deregistration for export (removal from the Italian PRA register) and the request for the document required to register the vehicle in your country are the responsibility of THE BUYER.

“The COC, if required, is not provided by the seller and it is the buyer’s responsibility to request it. However, it can be obtained by requesting it from the manufacturer or from various organisations online. Furthermore, please note that the vehicle will arrive at the overseas buyer’s premises WITHOUT NUMBER PLATES and INSURANCE; it is therefore necessary, prior to re-registration, that it be kept in a private place or area outside the road.”

The Detail

Stylish Verde Chiaro light green paintwork in good order with some age to note
Bodywork appears in good order with a few points to note in photos
Vendor states that there are no dented or oxidised panels
Small imperfections from use noted on the exterior
The vendor states the underbody is in very good condition
Black interior appears original and largely unmodified and in good order with light age
The vendor states the mechanical condition is good across all components
Reported to drive well on the road with no malfunctions
Vendor states that buyer is responsible for cost of transferring ownership

BEFORE YOU BUY

This sale is subject to the Car & Classic Terms and Conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following:

✓ The seller of this vehicle is registered as a business seller. And you are covered by Car & Classic’s Terms and Conditions.

✓ We request that a non-refundable fee be paid if you are the lucky winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted. Please refer to our helpful FAQs and T&Cs for specific rates.

✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is Where Is’ basis and without warranty. Photos and descriptions are solely for guidance purposes and it's customary to carry out a full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase for your own peace of mind.

✓ Tax is included in the buyer's fee. Tax may or may not be included in the final bid or offer price, as specified in the listing.

✓ We want a smooth transaction just as much as you do and as such we run all US-registered cars and motorbikes for sale on Car & Classic through an online title check to verify that they show no insurance database flags for damage or theft, and have no outstanding liens, allowing you to bid with confidence.

✓ Buyers are responsible for vehicle collection

or delivery. Importing vehicles may result in additional customs duties and import taxes so it's worth checking beforehand.