Fantasy Junction

Description

1948 Fiat Special in the style of Cisitalia
Engine No. 275415
Silver with red Interior

This remarkably attractive and interesting Fiat Special is comprised of Fiat and Cisitalia parts available in the late 1940s and early 1950s. It shows every sign that it was built in-period and appears to have been fully developed for racing with lightened components and custom adapted suspension and driveline pieces. The exact history for this car is not known. At some point it was badged as a Cisitalia, even so far as to have a special Cisitalia serial number plate constructed. The current owner bought this example at auction in Monterey, California where it was described and sold as a `Cisitalia D204`, although Cisitalia never produced a D204 model.

Powered by a well developed Fiat 4 cylinder 1100cc engine fitted with a rare Cisitalia head, this light weight car is quite brisk, and with the straight exhaust, it is impossible for onlookers to ignore its presence. Power is fed through a Fiat based 4-speed gearbox, and stopping force is provided by adapted and lightened period Fiat truck brakes. The chassis is a tubular latter design, typical of the cars era. An attractive alloy body, with Bandini-esque cycle fenders has been formed in the lightest way possible in an effort to minimize unnecessary weight.

Today the car remains very presentable. It has been the subject of a professional restoration which was carried out in period fashion. It has been finished in high quality silver paint with nice red upholstery. Finite details such as the brake reservoir, wiring harness, and gauges, are all correct for the early 1950s era. The tachometer is massive Jaeger unit meant to be easily read at high speed, while the balance of the gauges are N. Sacma units. A nice wood rimmed steering wheel, typical of the era, is fitted. There is an engine bay lamp which works, and a holder for a second set of spark plugs is fitted to the firewall. Headlights have been tastefully fitted within the grille, and miniature indicators have been mounted to the fenders, making this car road legal for use in historic rallies and tours.

The car runs and drives with good power. Despite is small displacement; the performance is impressive by virtue of its light weight. The transmission and clutch both work properly. The brakes operate, but will require a light service from lack of use. Although the car is quite small, the cockpit is large enough to functionally accommodate two adults.

Entered as a 1948 Fiat special, this example should be eligible for numerous venues in the historic racing and rally world. It is an adorable shape, and an interesting piece of Italian automotive history. Considerably less expensive than the Cisitalia it was once thought to be, this car also represents an outstanding value when compared with other alternatives from this era.

The above vehicle information is complete and accurate to the best of our knowledge at the time it is posted to this website. Corrections or additional information is always appreciated. All advertised prices exclude government fees and taxes, any finance charges, any dealer document preparation charge, and any emission testing charge. Vehicles are subject to prior sale. All advertised to be true but not guaranteed. We assume no liability for errors or omissions.

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Fantasy Junction  •  510-653-7555  •  1145 Park Ave, Emeryville, CA 94608