1961 FIAT 1200 CABRIOLET, w/1500 Twin Cam, 5-speed, fresh restoration, excellent

1961 Fiat 1200 TV Cabriolet

For nearly 20 years. Fiat's mid-range 508 and 1100 models had been the mainstay of middle class Italians. In the mid-1950s. a Turismo Veloce (fast touring) version with higher compression and a two-barrel carburetor became available. and then a two-seat cabriolet was introduced to compliment the sedan.

Called by Fiat "Trasformabile" (Italian for convertible). the cabriolet is generally considered the work of Fiat's design director Fabio Luigi Rapi. Teasingly voluptuous. it had a forward-leaning stance. Divided mesh grilles at the front were complimented by a wrap-around windshield. The haunches were understated. but set off with a broad. slightly-diagonal molding. Trasformabiles were soon given the TV engine. There was an adjustable steering wheel and roll-up windows provided comfort in all weather. The term "spider" for a two-seat. open car has become so eponymous that it is commonly applied to these progenitors of the later Fiat 124 Spider.

For 1958. the TV option was effectively replaced by a larger engine. The "TV" suffix. however. had become so associated with the Spider that it was retained and added to the new "1200" designation.

The car offered here was recently subject to a ground-up restoration only 400 miles ago. The practically rust-free body was restored. including hand-formed sills. Repainted in the original red. synonymous with Italian top-down motoring. the car shows beautifully. Brightwork is excellent with a new rear bumper and refurbished front. Original wheel covers adorn original wheels with good tires.

The interior was completely restored in black. including seat covers. dash. and panels. A custom canvas boot covers the like-new soft-top. Specially ordered European quality carpet was installed.

Mechically. the car is an Italian hot-rod. having had the somewhat insipid 1200cc engine replaced with the far more potent 1500cc twin cam engine from a 124 series Fiat. This completely and freshly rebuilt engine is mated to a 5-speed transmission. also from a 124. Custom headers and exhaust system give the car a quintessentially raspy Italian sporty sound. New springs and brakes stop the car and offer fantastic handling.

Rarely seen in the U. S. . the quick and nimble 1200TV is a stylish and enjoyable Italian roadster and a blast to drive.

The car is offered with a clean. clear California title.

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