Cars

Targeting Italy’s burgeoning middle class, Fiat launched a small monocoque saloon in 1953: the type 103 1100. A cabriolet model was launched in 1955, with a small American look designed by Luigi Rapi. In 1957, this convertible was fitted with a new block, the 1.2-liter of the 1100 TV. It was then renamed the 1200, but its already old-fashioned styling called for an overhaul. This took place in 1959. It was designed by Pinin Farina, who created a magnificent dress, foreshadowing that of the Peugeot 404 Cabriolet.

To mark the occasion, the 1200 changed its code to 118G. In addition to the 1.2-liter engine, this Italian convertible benefits from an all-new engine designed by OSCA, a company owned by the Maserati brothers. Attractive with its two overhead camshafts, it develops 90 hp for 1.5 l: this is the first 1500 Cabriolet (type 118S), very rare since only 300 units were produced. Very fast (170 km/h), it became the 1500S in 1961, then the 1600S in 1962 (type 118SA).

In 1963, the 1500 sedan appeared. It then gave its 1.5-liter block with side camshaft and polyspherical combustion chambers, designed by Aurelio Lampredi, to the 1200, which was renamed 1500. Developing 72 hp, it replaces the 1.2 l. For this occasion, the Fiat benefits from an enlarged front grille, while losing its hood air intake. Coded 118H, this homogeneous version accounts for the bulk of sales. In fact, it’s easier to live with than the 1600S, thanks to its less delicate yet powerful engine. Top speed is 160 km/h. The 1500 was also much more affordable than the 1600S: FF15,500 in 1964 (or €22,300 today) versus FF20,000.

An attractive price compared to the FF16,750 of an MGB. In 1965, the Fiat received a fully synchronized five-speed gearbox: a rarity at the time. It also gains a few more horsepower thanks to a new carburetor, and is coded 118K. The interior has been reworked. The 1500 convertible disappeared in 1966, replaced by the 124 Spider. Between 1959 and 1966, 35,000 units of the 118 series were produced, including 22,941 H and K versions with 1500 engines.

Just imported from the USA, this beautiful 1966 Fiat 1500 was part of the collection of Najeeb Khan, who had amassed an eclectic collection of over 240 cars, which was sold in 2020 by RM Sotheby’s for the benefit of the state, following his conviction for tax fraud (photos of the sale in the file below). This is the very last and most accomplished K version from 1966, equipped with a synchronized 5-speed gearbox, 75 hp engine, S dashboard with rev counter and 4 disc brakes.

The car has been restored to an excellent mechanical condition, with a superb interior and a solid, corrosion-free chassis. Only the paintwork is in average condition, more than likely due to poor preparation at the time. While it’s a shame that the paintwork isn’t up to par with the rest of the car, it doesn’t mean it has to be redone.

Source : Motorlegend – Acheter une FIAT 1500 1.5 Cabriolet (1963 – 1966)