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LOT 5

1959 Autobianchi Bianchina First Series Transformabile Coupé Chassis no. 110B-017116 Engine no. 110.000-084377

Sold for US$17,920 inc. premiumLot to be sold without reserve
Lot 5

'From the Maine Classic Car Museum Collection'
1959 Autobianchi Bianchina First Series Transformabile Coupé

1959 Autobianchi Bianchina First Series Transformabile Coupé
Chassis no. 110B-017116
Engine no. 110.000-084377


479cc Vertical Twin Cylinder Engine
Single Weber Carburetor
16bhp at 4,000rpm
4-Speed Manual Transmission
Transverse Leaf Front and Coil Spring Rear Suspension
4-Wheel Hydraulic Drum Brakes

*Nicely presented example of the upmarket FIAT 500
*Open air motoring with a full length sunroof
*Sporting color scheme
*Perfect for enjoying La Dolce Vita


THE AUTOBIANCHI BIANCHINA

While Bianchi is best known today as one of the oldest and most prestigious names in cycling, the company founded by Edoardo Bianchi was once quite diverse, producing arguably the world's finest racing motorcycles, and building its first automobile in 1900.

In 1957 Bianchi partnered with FIAT and Pirelli to form Autobianchi. Production commenced at a new purpose-built factory in Desio, with Autobianchi's debut model being the FIAT 500-based Bianchina, named after Edoardo Bianchi's first ever automobile.

The Bianchina debuted as the Transformabile coupé with a full-length folding sunroof. Positioned up-market from the FIAT 500, which had been conceived as basic motorized transportation for the impecunious masses, the Bianchina was marketed as a 'second car' or luxurious 'recreational vehicle'. Appealing strongly to affluent middle-class ladies, it reflected Italian society's increasing prosperity. In 1960 the newly introduced and more powerful FIAT 500D engine became standard equipment on the Bianchina range.

THE CAR OFFERED

This little Bianchina spent most of its life in California before heading to France several years ago. The brilliant red paint gives the little car a sporting verve while the red and white interior completes the appealing package. Showing nicely inside and out, and with fuel economy in the 50+ mpg range and top speed claimed by original sales brochures as "over 55 miles per hour", this stylish microcar awaits its next owner to stretch its little legs and show the world what a real city car is all about!

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