Lot 149 - 1970 Fiat Gamine Vignale
| Lot Number | 149 |
| Registration | MBF 241H |
| Chassis Number | 1915458 |
| Engine Number | tbc |
| Odometer reading | 19,900 miles |
| Estimate | £16,000 - £19,000 |
- Genuine unrestored example
- Original interior
- Low mileage
The Fiat 500 was produced between 1957 and 1975 with limited production of the Fiat 500 K estate continuing until 1977. Despite its diminutive size, the 500 proved to be an enormously practical and popular car throughout Europe, capturing the hearts and minds of the public. Launched as the Nuova 500, it was marketed as a cheap and practical town car. They only measured three metres long and were originally powered by a tiny 479cc two cylinder, air-cooled engine. The 500 redefined the term 'small car' and is considered one of the first city cars.
Frixos Demetriou was a successful casino owner in Cyprus and the owner of the Olympic Gaming Club in London. While in Milan his flight to Athens was diverted, he spotted an unusual looking car by the airport and on enquiry discovered that it was a Fiat 500 Gamine Vignale. The Gamine was a small two-seater roadster produced by Carozzeria Vignale from 1967 to 1971, based on the Fiat 500 platform using the two-cylinder air-cooled engine from the 500 Sport. Demetriou was looking to diversify his business interests and sensing an opportunity he returned via Turin, securing the rights to sell Vignale products in the UK. He bought 200 cars upfront, paying with cash and committed to buy the next six months production if Vignale would manufacture the car in righthand drive form. The Gamine two-seater was well received, becoming trendy with the Chelsea set, even nightclub owner Peter Stringfellow owned one.
This delightful example of these hugely sought after Fiats is presented in its original paint colour of red with its original black interior. This car was used as a static showroom display by the UK’s oldest Fiat dealership, Platts Garage, from 1977 until 2018 when they ceased trading and the car was then recommissioned. A rare righthand drive, two owner car which is in unrestored condition. This is truly a rare commodity when searching for these models, particularly with the odometer reading a mere 19,900 which we believe to be commensurate with its age. Delightful, fun and eye catching!
Interested parties should satisfy themselves as to the description and condition of each Lot prior to the sale. Accordingly, buyers are on notice that each vehicle is offered ‘as is/as seen’ subject to the Terms and Conditions for the auction. All registration numbers, engine and chassis details are sourced from registration documents provided to Historics by the client or representative or HPI checks and buyers are to satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of these details. Buyers are advised to inspect the vehicle in person or use a professional to carry out this service. Historics will not entertain disputes over descriptions.