Lot 136: Fiat 508 Spyder Balilla Sport

The Fiat 508 made its official debut at the Milan Automobile Show in 1932, the first version of which came with a three speed gearbox and was Fiat's 'bread and butter' model. It was offered with three types of bodywork, two door coupe, torpedo and spyder, while the coachwork of the Balilla S was originally designed by the famous Italian coachbuilder Ghia. Subsequently Fiat purchased the rights for the design and offered the model in two different types: the Coppa d'Oro with flowing wings and the Mille Miglia with sportier cycle wings. Power was supplied by an inline four cylinder side-valve engine with a capacity of 995cc, producing some 30bhp. Siata produced at the time accessories and up-rated parts, making it probably one of the earliest car tuners around. For the Balilla, Siata produced a cylinder head with internal valves, adding a healthy 10bhp to the overall power output. This cylinder head design anticipated the layout of the Fiat 1100 that followed. Braking was catered for by hydraulically operated drum brakes all round and suspension via leaf springs and shock absorbers. The coachwork of this pretty two seater is made of steel, and this 508 sports wire wheels all round. These pretty cars found favour with many ambitious drivers, thanks to their good weight distribution and comparatively superior brakes  a delight for swift touring and a good base for numerous competitions. At the time, these cars achieved fantastic results in the Mille Miglia and many other events and were upgraded by many competitors. This stunning example underwent a comprehensive mechanical restoration in 2001, at which time the coachwork was restored as was necessary. At a recent photographic shoot the car started 'on the button' and made all the right noises and it is described by the vendor, a notable car collector and restorer, as being in excellent condition throughout. A fantastic and affordable entry into the world of pre-war motoring.

Questa meravigliosa vettura è stata sottoposta a un restauro complessivo della meccanica nel 2001 e anche la carrozzeria è stata restaurata dove necessario. In occasione del recente servizio fotografico l'auto è partita facendo il giusto rombo e il venditore, un noto collezionista e restauratore, ce la descrive come in eccellenti condizioni. Una fantastica occasione ad un prezzo ragionevole per aggiudicarsi questo pezzo da collezione pre-bellica.