Lancia

1981 Lancia Gamma Coupe

2 Comments

Pininfarina designed many Italian greats such as the Cisitalia 202, the Ferrari Daytona and the Alfa Romeo Spider. One of my favorites from this storied designer is the Lancia Gamma Coupe. Virtually unknown here in the US, this was Lancia's upscale offering from 1976 through 1984. This Gamma Coupe for sale in Switzerland has the larger 2.5 liter horizontally opposed four cylinder engine, 4-speed automatic transmission and a low 33,000 miles on the clock.

1981 Lancia Gamma Coupe

Nice, well kept and rare car, good original condition, mechanically sound. Owned over 10 years by the current owner.

As it stands, this car is about $8,700. For those in the US that would be interested, you'd be looking at a $10,000 to $11,000 car at least, by the time you account for shipping and customs charges. I have yet to see one of these on US shores, but if this car had a 5-speed manual, it would be tempting. It's a lot of money when you consider other, more reliable options you can get at this price point, but for me, the styling of this seizes the day. For a car designed in the mid 1970s, the looks have held up well.

-Paul

Fiat

1933 Fiat 508S Siata Mille Miglia

The Mille Miglia, or 1000 Miles, is one of the most storied endurance races in history. From 1927 through 1957, this race from Brescia to Rome and back put both drivers and manufacturers on the map. This Fiat 508S was based around the popular Fiat Balilla introduced in 1932. With tuning by SIATA Societa Italiana Auto Trasformazioni Accessori) that included an overhead valve conversion and four-speed manual, this open roofed racer is an opportunity to own Mille Miglia history and benefits from a detailed detailed documentation with a continuous ownership history.

1933 Fiat 508S Siata Mille Miglia

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In 1932, Fiat produced their new 508 "Balilla" an innovative, light two and four-door sedans that soon became an ideal starting point for both privateers, organized shops and tuners to modify and race. The basic platform featured four-wheel hydraulic brakes and a 12-volt electrical system, something few manufacturers of the day could boast. The standard production versions offered 22bhp and a wide-ratio 3-speed gearbox giving moderate performance and top speed of nearly 100kph / 65mph.

In one of those rare instances of "Man, Machine, Time, Place and Opportunity" in 1933, four perfect elements came together in the form of FIAT, GHIA, SIATA and the Mille Miglia! A loosely organized partnership between FIAT, Carrozzeria Ghia and SIATA's Giorgio Ambrosini that year saw the limited production of the Sport Spider 508S which was a two-seat roadster based on the Balilla and created by Carrozzeria Ghia for the FIAT factory.

The vehicle came in two versions, one with cycle-fenders and the other with full-flowing fenders, both of which featured a lightened chassis, improved suspension and brakes. The cycle-fender version was called the Coppa d'Oro or "gold cup" and the stream-lined fender version the "Mille Miglia Spyder." Very few of either version were produced but they did well enough in the Mille Miglia and other European rallies, hill climbs and race events that today ownership of an original example is highly prized.

SIATA (Societa Italiana Auto Trasformazioni Accessori) was founded by veteran racer and engineer, Giorgio Ambrosini in 1926. Ambrosini recognized the real potential of the 508's basic engine and the car's overall potential as a competitive racer. His highly tuned versions in final form produced more than twice the horsepower of the stock version. Clients could be provided versions that produced 36, 43 and even 50bhp from the stock 995cc engines. The main difference with the SIATA set up was by the use of a strengthened crank and heavily revised camshaft, cylinder head, intake and exhaust system. Coupled with the light and lively 508 chassis and four-wheel hydraulic brakes, these new racing Spyders easily dominated the under 1-liter classes at a variety of events, most importantly being the Mille Miglia for which they were named.

Chassis 508S-018687

This particular example is one of the ultra-rare racing variant of the production 508 Balilla. Known as both the 508S Sprint Siata or "Mille Miglia" Spyder due to their enormous successes in the 1933 and 34 race Seasons. The chassis and engine number sequences are unique to this limited production run of vehicles. This particular example was built in 1933 specifically for the Mille Miglia.

The chassis number is 508S-018687 The "S" in the chassis number indicating that it was and remains one of the few Factory built competition models and that it therefore also has a Tipo 108S "Siata" engine. The original engine and current engine for this car remains 108S-018552. These "Mille Miglia" racing versions have an ultra short ring and pinion gear set (10 x 43 or 4.3:1) and a race-oriented 4-speed gearbox rather than the standard 3 speed unit which most of the cars had back then.

The 508S also sported an ultra-short wheel base of only 2,250mm and a dry weight of just 625kg / 1375lbs!The chassis was also finely tuned with an under-slung front beam axle and quarter-eliptic springs at all four corners. Both the front and rear suspension have adjustable dual action friction shocks that work on both bump and rebound. All of this was and remains extremely sophisticated when both Alfa Romeo and Bugatti were still relying on cable and rod actuated brakes for even their top of the line racers!

Until 2002, this car had only three Italian owners from new! The first family had it until 1966 then Sig. Fausto Spreafico bought and restored it. He sold it to Giuseppe Negri who had it from 1968 until 2002 when it went to Sig. Angelo Strada in Milan. It then joined a prominent Japanese private museum collection from which we purchased the car in July of this year. Unlike most examples that come to market and are offered for sale, this particular example has continuos, known history from new and most importantly retains its original coachwork and drive-train. Original FIA and FIVA documents and previous owners records and information also fully support and document this most rare example.At the time of our purchase and for many years going back to 1966 when this FIAT was finally sold by her original owner, it was incorrectly assumed that the engine number on this FIAT was 067363 as this is prominently stamped on the right-side of the engine.

It was also assumed incorrectly that this car was originally a three speed with standard final drive ratio. Upon arrival at our service, race and restoration facility, this FIAT was carefully and closely inspected. The engine and gearbox were removed and carefully cleaned finally revealing for the first time in many decades that the correct engine number boss is actually stamped "108S-018552" and the engine casting date is January 22, 1933. The previously used engine number so easily seen on the side of the engine "067363" is in fact a SIATA part number stamped on a removable block-off plate that gives access to the engines oil-galleries and valve train (Please see the photo gallery above). The gearbox is an original and correct 508S four-speed unit and the final drive ratio is in fact the correct 4.3:1 508S specific version.

We have also further been able to confirm that the front leaf springs have only six leaves and the rear only seven which gives the car exception handling and cornering ability. At this time, Chassis 508S-018687 does not have any known or confirmed period race history but it is one of the few real examples built and believed to be a period MM veteran and has always been accepted as such. There are possibly six or so other real examples known to exist but few as well documented as this one and none known to be more period correct.

Cars with prestigious racing history never come cheap, and this Fiat is no exception. The offer price for this vehicle puts it in some heady collector territory, where you could snag anything from a Ferrari Daytona to some desirable vintage Maseratis. It will take a special collector to pony up for this racer, one who appreciates the allure and history of the Mille Miglia.

-Paul

Fiat, Modern Classic

1987 Bertone X1/9

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The X1/9 could be considered as Fiat's last gasp in the US marketplace until their revival in 2012 with the 500. While Fiat itself left the US marketplace in 1982, the job of marketing and selling the X1/9 fell to its designer, Bertone. This X1/9 for sale in California represents the final year for these mid-engined sports cars. It has been stored for many years and has been sorted, ready for a new owner to take the helm.

1987 Bertone X1/9

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The Bertone (Fiat) X1/9 for sale here is arguably one of, if not the finest available examples as it has only been driven 12,500 miles and just as importantly it has been fully sorted after sitting as in new condition for over 20 years. The previous seller tells me that due to Fiat leaving the USA, this car remained in storage until 2007 in a port near Houston, Texas. It is available in Pleasanton, California for $10,000 OBO

The X1/9 underwent three generations in the USA: 1974 cars, 1975-78 cars and 1979-87 cars. This one is in like new, mint condition, having been scrupulously maintained by an enthusiastic and meticulous owner since it was rescued. This last iteration of the X1/9 features the bigger 1500cc engine and 5 speed transmissions making it far better to drive in modern traffic. Creature comforts, such as power windows and A/C make it a surprisingly pleasurable touring vehicle as well as as an impressive sports car on the back roads.

The X1/9 succeeded a 1969 show concept car called the Autobianchi A112 Runabout, with styling by Bertone under chief designer Marcello Gandini. The interior is amazingly clean, with an attractive 3-spoke leather wheel and a very clean dash. We think the black color is more aggressive looking and ages better than the tan. The car has never had a spot of rust, and his is truly turn-key. An upgrade stereo is the only non-original component, and the original documentation history and literature are included.

This one represents an interesting opportunity for the Concorso and car museum guys, but we’d put it on the road for an enjoyable couple thousand miles per year under great care. That way it would still only have 27k miles after a decade, and would likely still be one of the lowest mileage examples around even though you would thoroughly enjoy the ownership experience for years to come.

I've seen a few low mileage X1/9s surface in the past six months, so we're not looking at an extremely rare car, but it is nicely presented and rust free. That's important on a car such as this which is highly susceptible to the tin worm. With no reserve on this tidy X1/9, we're probably looking at a $10,000 to $12,000 final bid.

-Paul

Lancia, Uncategorized

1979 Autobianchi A112 Abarth

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While the Volkswagen GTI gets the lion's share of praise for kicking off the hot hatchback craze, the Italians did a lot to popularize it. Fiat has brought their fair share of fast three doors to the market over the past few decades, but another oddity crept up a lot earlier than the tuned versions of the Ritmo, Punto and Cinquencento. In 1971, Autobianchi launched the A112 Abarth, a small hatchback based around Fiat 127 mechanicals and badged also as the Lancia Y10. These diminutive hatchbacks were never sold here and few survive in good nick to this day. This particular A112 Abarth was brought over to the US a few years ago by a Dutch gentleman and offers those stateside a rare opportunity to get into a vintage Abarth at a reasonable price.

1979 Autobianchi A112 Abarth

Capri blue exterior, black Abarth front scooped hood, tan velour and vinyl interior, 5-Speed manual, twin two-barrel carburetor, 13" Campagnelo magnesium wheels, 43,000 original miles (69,000 km), two-spoke Abarth steering wheel. This A112 was imported to the States six years ago by a Dutchman in Texas. $13,500.

This same A112 Abarth was listed on eBay last year at $17,500. While the price has been reduced quite a bit, we're still a bit on the high side at $13,500. Just because a car is rare in the US doesn't automatically equate to added value. If you could snag this Abarth for around the same price of a similar vintage, well kept GTI, say, $8,000 to $10,000, I'd say it would be worth biting. At that price, you couldn't get much more Abarth bang for your buck.

-Paul

Lancia

1928 Lancia Lambda

This Lancia Lambda is the oldest car we've ever featured on CICFS. We're attracted to cars that are groundbreaking and this is one machine that does not disappoint. The Lambda was not only the first car to feature a front independent suspension, but also pioneered the concept of a load bearing monocoque structure. Another noteworthy feature was the Lambda's V4 engine, which had a narrow angle between the cylinder banks served by a single overhead camshaft. Any one piece of technology on this car would have been heady stuff for its day but combined made this car a technical tour de force. Built between 1922 and 1931, a little over 11,000 Lambdas were produced. This Lambda for sale in California is a later model Series 8 that has a replica body shell.

1928 Lancia Lambda

1928 Lancia Lambda 8th Series
With Casaro Mille Miglia Style Coachwork
s/n 20908, Engine no. 10842
Dark Red with Brown Leather

Lancia has long held an enviable reputation as a manufacturer of exceptional automobiles, both in terms of design and performance. As a manufacturer Vincenzo Lancia brought a unique combination of skills and experiences to the table. Involved with the automobile from its earliest days, Vincenzo Lancia by turns was a mechanic, a designer, a manufacturer and a stunningly fast race car driver.

His company produced a family of some of the most advanced and successful automobile designs ever seen. Cars that succeeded not only in their daring innovations but also due to their quality construction and rigorous engineering standards. The models Alfa, Lambda, Aprilia and Aurelia are all seen as important points in the development of the automobile, but perhaps none more so than the Lambda.
The Lambda can be seen as the first truly modern car where performance, safety, reliability and advanced manufacturing were seen as a single system. Boasting the first unit construction chassis, a compact V-4 aluminum engine, independent front suspension and a large, comfortable cockpit, there were few cars that could match the Lambda; a car that combined the comfort of a luxury car and the performance of a sports car.

Vincenzo Lancia was considered to be the fastest driver in Italy during his ten year racing career with Fiat. While the company did enter competitions their purpose was more to demonstrate the soundness of Lancia’s designs than to win overall. The Lambda with its superlative handling and broad power band was quickly taken up by sporting customers and entered in numerous races and trials. The factory seldom entered cars under their own banner, but for 1937 and 1938 Mille Miglia teams of factory raced prepared Lambdas were entered.

In 1938 three new 8th Series 221 short wheel base chassis were prepared and entered in the Mille Miglia. With its separate frame construction, the three 8th Series cars were fitted with aluminum Carsaro bodies. After leading the event and within only 186 miles to the finish line Luigi Gismondi crashed handing the win to Alfa Romeo. The remaining two factory cars finished in 3rd and 9th place. None of the three original 1928 factory cars are known to still exist.

Originally commissioned from Donald Wright by Queens Counsel Lyton Morris, this car is built on a correct 8th Series 221 chassis, using original Lambda components throughout with the engine having been fitted with a 3 Litre “Wright” cylinder block. The replica Casaro aluminum body was built by Brian Hawke using projected images to produce accurate profiles of the original lines. It is considered to be one of the most accurate and correctly detailed examples produced. Well supported by Lancia clubs and specialty manufacturers worldwide, maintenance is not a problem.

Most cars of 1920’s feel distinctly old whereas a properly maintained Lambda, such as this car, feels like a “real” car, able to deal with modern traffic and not wear out its occupants on even the longest of drives. This example has proven its performance and reliability in the Mille Miglia and other tours along with daily use by the current owner. Handsome and elegant it is sure to find an appreciative audience wherever it goes. $398,500

A 1927 Series 7 Lambda roadster sold at Bonhams in 2011 for just over $202,000. That particular car was an untouched barn find in fairly rough condition. A few Series 8 Lambdas have also sold recently in the $80,000 to $140,000 range, but none of these had the coach built body. Vintage Lancias like these are never cheap, but they also attract a particular kind of buyer that is familiar with what is a rather obscure marque this side of the pond. The asking price of almost $400,000 seems a bit steep for today's classic car marketplace. If this car were to come up at auction, I'd suspect we might see $250,000 to about $275,000 exchange hands, but not a whole lot more.

Looking back on this Lambda makes me lament much of the current Lancia range, which consists mostly of rebadged Chryslers. While these cars might make money and spread out research and development costs for the company's parent, Fiat, it does nothing to honor the vision and ingenuity of Vincenzo Lancia.

-Paul

Ferrari

1972 Ferrari 365 GTC/4

3 Comments

It's no coincidence that the Ferrari 365 GTC/4 looks like the Ferrari Daytona. Based on the same chassis as that legendary GT car, the 365 GTC/4 added two rear seats and swapped the rear mounted transaxle for a gearbox situated behind the engine. Produced for only two years, this was the spiritual successor to the 365GT and GTC of the late 1960s. Much like the 400i we featured earlier this week, the 365 GTC/4 represents one of the cheapest ways to get into a vintage V12 Ferrari. This example for sale in Indiana is painted in an unusual and subdued shade of gray.

1972 Ferrari 365 GTC/4

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Only 50,273 actual miles, strong running car, suspension great, engine done in the last couple years. Alloy V12 engine, 340 HP, five-speed manual transmission, disc brakes, fully independent suspension.

Though it's only a letter off from the Ferrari 365 GTB/4 “Daytona,” the GTC/4 has a personality all its own, with unique merits and deserves to be recognized as a brilliant grand tourer in its own right. While the GTC/4 will never command the same respect as a Daytona, it is an undoubtedly important car in Ferrari's history. The GTC/4 was introduced in March at the Geneva Motor Show. Sharing mechanical similarities with the Daytona, the GTC/4 rode on a wheelbase of an extra 100mm and was sheathed in crisply pleated Pininfarina lines with just enough curvature to soften their visual impact.

Under the sheet metal is an all-alloy V12, mounted up front in the manner of a traditional Ferrari GT. It displaced 4.4L and boasted a compression ratio of 8.8:1. With two Marelli distributors, four camshafts, and six Weber carbs, the engine is able to produce a hearty 340 horsepower at 6,800 rpm. Torque is rated at 318lb-ft at 4,000 rpm. Controlling the flow of power to the rear axle is an all-synchro five-speed manual transmission. The car is suspended by an independent layout of unequal-length control arms at all corners, and four-wheel vented discs are in place. This lovely example has just 50,300 miles and is in excellent condition throughout. It has been regularly serviced, including the all-important leakdown test, and all 12 cylinders have perfect compression and the car is ready for your next road trip.

Values for the 365 GTC/4 typically run from $70,000 to $140,000 these days. While this particular car has just over 50,000 miles, there is no information provided as to whether this is an original car or if it has been refreshed over the years. If this is an original car, I wouldn't be surprised if it fetched six figures, but if it has been restored in any way, shape or form, we might be looking at around $80,000 to $90,000. Sure, this isn't a Daytona, but when you consider the 365 GTC/4 shares a lot of the same mechanicals and platform, it can be a way to get a lot of bang for your Ferrari buck.

-Paul

Lancia, Modern Classic

1987 Lancia Thema 8.32

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With every passing year, a slew of interesting cars become available for import to the US that fall outside of the 25 year law set by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. I've had my eyes on the Lancia Thema for a while, but not just any Thema, the one with the 3.0 liter Ferrari V8 under the hood. Even though it was front-wheel drive, this is a piece of exotica revered by those in the know. This Thema for sale in Germany was imported to the country four years prior from Switzerland.

1987 Lancia Thema 8.32

Car is in good condition with little mileage. Carpets in the front should be replaced. Injection lines slightly corroded. Just needs some TLC and movement as it sat for three years in the garage. Sensational engine is good for a lot of fun. In five years, this car will be vintage and guaranteed with high appreciation potential. One of the first of the "nicer" series, only 2300 pieces built. Poltrona Frau full leather interior with Alcantara roof. The car has no technical approval because it was never registered in Germany and was imported from Switzerland four years ago.

It's a risk buying a car of this caliber that has sat for a while and needs mechanical attention. At about $7,800 USD, you're looking at about a $10,000 car after importation and customs fees. If you can keep the repairs to around $2,000 to $3,000, I'd say it would be worth it. The exterior looks tidy and the interior leather and wood is well preserved. Sort the mechanicals and this would be a fantastic sleeper.

-Paul

Fiat

1967 Fiat Dino Spider

4 Comments

The Fiat Dino Spider is possibly the most beautiful Italian car that few have ever heard or seen. While the more common Dino Coupe was styled by Bertone, the Spider was the brainchild of Pininfarina. Both vehicles had the Ferrari derived V6 engine, used in these vehicles to help Ferrari homologate the engine for Formula 2 racing. This Dino Spider is for sale in the Netherlands.

1967 Fiat Dino Spider

Fiat Dino Spider 2.0 in beautiful condition! Comes from 3e owner and is for 7 years since restored general and the technology become obsolete general. Beautiful, black, fully Leclerc interior cover and sun canopy country. Body very solid, no rust, no defects. Technology properly and runs perfectly. Rare condition for a Dino Spider.

At $90,000, this Dino is at the high end of what these cars typically fetch. Normally you would see these for sale between $50,000 to $70,000, but perhaps values are on the move. While some may view this as an expensive Fiat, one could also look at this Spider as an inexpensive Ferrari. With looks that match the best from Maranello and rarity (only 1,159 2.0 Spiders produced), these will certainly remain collectible as the years pass.

-Paul

Fiat

1981 Fiat Spider 2000

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The Fiat Spider carried the roadster torch for Fiat for almost 20 years, which is rather remarkable, considering the automotive advancements that came about between 1966 and 1985. Even today, this two seater looks rather timeless. This later Spider for sale in New Hampshire has the 2.0 liter engine with fuel injection that is good for just over 100 horsepower.

1981 Fiat Spider 2000

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A beautiful 1981 Fiat Spider 2000. Body by Pininfarina. Color: Safari Yellow (an ivory shade). Engine: 4 cylinder with Bosch fuel injection system. Transmission: Manual 5-speed. Now with a LOW RESERVE: This car is in great condition and has been maintained in every way that a solid running Fiat Spider 2000 ought to be. I have invested a lot of money into the car (since 2008), and I am proud to own it. And the clock even works! Here’s a list of what’s been done to the car since I bought it 4 years ago:

Engine completely serviced and tuned-up last year, valves adjusted
New timing belt
New distributor, rotor and cap
Transmission completely serviced and inspected
Complete clutch system replacement (i.e., pressure plate and disc)
Stick shift linkage completely rebuilt into top of transmission
New gaskets for engine (wherever it was opened up)
New Airflow sensor (i.e. sending unit for fuel injection computer)
New air filter
Front end suspension thoroughly inspected and refurbished as needed
New stabilizer bar in rear suspension
Shock absorbers all the way around
Complete brake job, with exterior brake lines replaced
New vacuum brake booster
Heater core and valve, cooling hoses and anti-freeze replaced
Manual radiator fan override switch installed (automatic fan works too)
Performance tires, (approx. 7,000 miles on them since purchased)
Fresh oil changes every 3,000 miles
Body is clean and rust free
Garaged in winter
Minor deficiencies:

The convertible top looks great on the outside, no tears and water tight.
The interior shows some wear and tear
The radio tape deck is not working, but may only be a blown fuse
I’ve invested my money in the mechanical stuff
I removed the carpet to inspect the floors, etc.
I have all of the carpet sections in a box
Car has a few very minor dings (not dents), and a couple of tiny scratches.
Dings can be seen on last photo
I’ve got an un-opened bottle of touch-up paint for the scratches (original color)

This car is beautiful and you should bid with every confidence. Please feel free to contact me if you would like to inspect and drive the car in person.

For a Spider hailing from New England, this car looks tidy. The Buy it Now price of $5,350 is attractive for such a well kept classic Italian roadster. For me, only the color and larger crash bumpers of the later Spiders let this car down. If it turns out to be rust free and mechanically sound, this would be a smart buy for someone seeking a lot of top down character for little money.

-Paul

Ferrari, Modern Classic

1983 Ferrari 400i

2 Comments

Ferrari has been in the business of making grand touring coupes for years, but the 400 and later 412 seem to have been relegated to the dust bin in terms of the history of the Prancing Horse. This was a car of many firsts for Ferrari, two of which were the automatic transmission and anti-lock brakes. This car also enjoyed the longest production run of any Ferrari in history, from 1976 through 1989. While not officially imported to the US, many have made their way over here throughout the years. While this one isn’t for sale in the states, it is tantalizingly close in Toronto.

1983 Ferrari 400i

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Re-listed due to a rogue high bid, this 1983 Ferrari 400i is a beautifully preserved and very presentable example of Ferrari's V12 flagship GT car of the 1980's. Finished in grigio fumo over tan hides this is a superb example of one of Enzo Ferrari's most elegant and eye-catching designs. The vehicle is well maintained with good compression all around and boasts Ferrari’s classic V12 Columbo engine with its characteristically fantastic exhaust note. The car was treated to a very good respray some years ago and it still looks fresh today with only a few minor chips and dings. The interior is in excellent overall condition.

The car is complete with the original owners manuals and pouch, the complete original kidney style leather tool kit and first aid kit along with copies of the original shop and parts manuals. Car is a 1983 but is listed as a 1980 due to ebay not accepting a 5 digit VIN for vehicles made after 1981. Major service recently completed included valve adjustment, timing chain adjustment, all new belts and ignition wires, new water hoses, new fuel injectors, new fuel accumulators and fuel pump, new master cylinder, new flexible brake hoses, new front hood shocks, new water pump seal, rebuilt self leveling shocks, repacked differential and recent front end alignment.

The prior owner owned the vehicle for 26 years before I purchased the vehicle from Bobileff Motor Car in San Diego. Car was sold to me as not legal in CA due to modifications to exhaust made by previous owner. Since the pictures were taken the window tint has been removed. Reason for selling is that I have recently had the unexpected opportunity to purchase a Ferrari 365 GTC4 and cannot now accommodate both vehicles. This car is an excellent example of a rare collectable and potentially appreciating Ferrari V12.

Bidders with zero feedback will not be considered unless by prior arrangement. Car is located in Toronto, Ontario Canada and is available for inspection by appointment. Buyer is responsible for making all shipping and export arrangements and paying all costs. US buyers may contact TFXinternational.com or similar companies who specialize in trans-border shipping and brokerage of vehicles for questions re shipping and/or export arrangements.

At $22,500, this 400i seems cheap for Ferrari standards, but is actually right in line with where the market is for these large V12 coupes. Between $20,000 to $30,000 should buy you a decent runner these days with a good history, while anything above $30,000 will be the cream of the crop.

-Paul