LOT 181
1972 Fiat 127 Dinghy Coachwork by Carrozzeria Frua Chassis no. 127A1827024
Sold for US$31,360 inc. premiumLot to be sold without reserve
Lot 181
A unique Frua-bodied beach car with excellent concours potential
1972 Fiat 127 Dinghy
1972 Fiat 127 Dinghy
1972 Fiat 127 Dinghy
Coachwork by Carrozzeria Frua
Chassis no. 127A1827024
Coachwork by Carrozzeria Frua
Chassis no. 127A1827024
903cc OHV Inline 4-Cylinder
Single Carburetor
45bhp
4-Speed Manual
Independent Front, Transverse Panhard Rod Rear Suspension
Front Disc, Rear Drum Brakes
*Believed to be the sole example ever built by Frua
*A delightful 'beach car' at the 1977 Geneva motor show
*In running and driving condition with low original mileage
*Fantastic potential for concours events
THE CAR OFFERED
This wild Fiat 'Dinghy' beach car was commissioned by legendary Italian coachbuilder Carrozzeria Frua and is believed to be the sole example built. Using a 1972 Fiat 127 as its basis, it was reportedly completed around 1977. The concept clearly draws from Ghia's Jolly beach cars (even the name 'Dinghy' recalls the Jolly's origins), but Pietro Frua's design is unique, with a fixed metal roof attached via sculpted pillars. With no doors to fuss with, one can just "hop in and go!" Period photos show this car at the 1977 Geneva International Motor Show along with other Frua creations, wearing wonderful white paint with wooden accents, white wheels and an ultra-70s interior. Acquired by the seller in 2022, believed to be the car's third owner, it was found in California where it spent most of its life. The consignor purchased the car from the long-term owner who shipped the car from Italy to California sometime around the early eighties. While decommissioned, it spent its days in the dry climate of southern California, and while some minor corrosion is noted in places– as is common for 70s Fiats – thankfully the dry climate kept this corrosion at bay and does not appear to be heavy or widespread. This Dinghy has massive potential for a full restoration back to its original specs, with bragging rights as a one-off Frua creation. Displaying just over 17,700 kilometers on the clock, these are believed to be original. The current 'Totally Rad' multicolored paint job is believed to hail from 1980's... Ya don't say! While repainted, it is understood to be largely original except for different seats, paint, and a Hurst shifter. The vendor reports the car now runs and drives and has even been regularly driven to local car shows with ease. Accompanying items include a spare set of wheels, which the car was found with upon purchase, spare Fiat 127 steering wheel and various assorted bits. With a straightforward restoration, the delightful Frua 127 Dinghy has amazing potential as a concours car or a unique and stylish shuttle at a summer home. The opportunity to acquire a one-off Italian coachbuilt show car, especially one penned by the legendary Pietro Frua, is a rare one, indeed. This one also happens to come at a fraction of the cost of a one-off Alfa, Maserati or Ferrari – and is arguably just as fun!
Additional information
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