Fantasy Junction

Description

1952 Siata Berlina Prototype by Bertone s/n CS057L, Engine No. CS023 Creme and Blue with Beige Interior This one-off, four-seat, Siata Berlina uses the Fiat derived 2.0 liter V8 engine which can also be found in the more common Fiat 8Vs, and Siata 208s. Like other one-off Italian designs, this car boasts many unique details in the head and taillight structures, and throughout the dash and doors. First shown at the Paris Auto Show in October 1952, then with 2 other Siatas at the New York International Motor Sports Show in April 1953, this car was sold in Chicago in 1953. Resold in 1955 to Roy Thoressen of Burnsville, MN, who drove the car for 3 or 4 years and then put the Berlina away. In storage for 30 years (29 dry), it was severely water damaged when a snow storm collapsed the roof of the warehouse. The car was sold in 1989 and changed hands 3 times quickly before finally residing in Stamford, CT. The current owner bought this Berlina in January of 1993 in the same condition as when sold in 1989. After acquiring the car, the owner first addressed the interior. Upon removing the interior, the owner found still wet rodent nests in the rear inner wheel wells. After letting the interior dry for several months, they re-glued the door panels, re-colored the interior as close to original as possible, and then re-fitted the interior. Between 1988 and 1993 numerous attempts to get the car running were made. Several fuel pumps were tried before the owner achieved success. Once accomplished, the battery polarity was corrected and the car started. The oil and radiator hoses were replaced, the valves adjusted, and then the car was driven to Lime Rock for the Labor Day car show. Not too bad for a car that sat for over 30 years. The car was used for a number of years in cleaned un-restored condition participating in vintage rallies and shows. This Siata Berlina has now undergone a total restoration, returning the car to original in all respects. The engine was rebuilt by Walt Spak in Pittsburgh, PA. The interior was trimmed by Tom Pearce in Oakdale, PA, and the exterior rested by Bob Williams of Wills Garage, also in Oakdale. Prior to restoration, water damage not with standing, the car was 99%+ complete, missing only minor bits and pieces. You are seeing the Berlina in its original colors, as it was shown in 1952-1953. One very unusual aspect of the Berlina is its tires and wheels. Though it would have been easy to fit new or restored wheels and new tires it is truly rare to see a 50+ year old car on its ORIGINAL TIRES and WHEELS. Currently the car is representative of a near perfect, older restoration with almost no miles on it. There are no obvious flaws inside or out. The underside, trunk, and engine bay all have the appearance of a freshly restored car. The quality of the restoration is of the highest order, and indeed, the car took first in class at the 2005 Amelia Island show. The car drives easily. The engine sounds good, has good power, and doesn`t smoke. The Brakes are effective, gearbox smooth, and suspension compliant. All the gauges appear to be fully operational. With the car comes a new tool roll and jack bag, as well as bead blasted tools and jack, effectively completing the package for the enthusiast looking to show his new Berlina.

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

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