1962 Fiat 1200 Spider

Fiat introduced their successor to the 1100 at the 1957 Turing Motor Show. The 1200 was available in Granluce sedan and open Cabriolet or Spider form, with a Turismo Veloce (meaning fast touring) sedan available as well. The design of the Spider was influenced by Fabio Luigi Rapi, Fiat's design director. The 1200 saloon was closely resembled the Fiat 1100. Power was from a new engine of 1221cc form developing 55 horsepower.

The convertible was restyled in 1959 and given a new Pininfarina-designed body, with similarities to Ferrari's 250 GT PF coupes, especially when it wore the optional hardtop. The 1200 had roll-up windows and swiveling seats as standard, and a new split mesh-patterned grille that incorporated angled sides. The 1200 Spider (Cabriolet) was built by Fiat's Vetture Speciali (meaning special cars) unit.

The 1200 Spider sold for $2,595 and proved to be rather popular, especially in the American sports-car market. In 1960, it was given a boost of power, with the 1221cc engine reaching 63 horsepower. Production of the Spider continued with few changes through March 1963, when it was succeeded by the 1500. The 1500 was powered by a 1481cc engine and received its styling from Pininfarina.

This 1962 Fiat 1200 Cabriolet has been given a restoration and finished in red with a tan leather interior and black canvas top - plus it has the factory hardtop. The cars entire history is known, dating back to Milan, Italy. There is a four-speed manual transmission and four-wheel hydraulic drum brakes.

In 2010, this car was offered for sale at the Vintage Motor Cars of Hershey presented by RM Auctions. It was estimated to sell for $25,000 - $35,000 and offered without reserve. As bidding came to a close, the car had been sold for the sum of $33,000, which included buyer's premium.

By Daniel Vaughan | Oct 2010