FIAT has pampered convertible models since the beginning, which have remained in the collective memory for their sporty style and performance
FIAT can be considered one of the car brands with the most experience in the production of convertibles. The first model, the FIAT 3 ½, didn’t even have a hardtop. A feature shared by other cars of the time. Between the 1910s and 1930s, FIAT developed Torpedo (4-5 seats) and Spider (2 seats) versions of most of its models, from the most basic to large limousines.
The impact of World War II would eventually cut this practice from the brand. However, the success of convertible cars in the 50s would lead FIAT to develop its own proposal, signed by Luigi Rapi. Presented at the 1955 Geneva Motor Show, the FIAT 1100 TV Transformabile was an attractive two-seater roadster, inspired by the American vehicles of the time. However, the 56 hp engine fell short, which led to the development of a more powerful model.
Negotiations with Pininfarina and Maserati-affiliated engine manufacturer OSCA led to the FIAT Pininfarina Cabriolet, which was marketed between 1956 and 1966 in two-door coupé and convertible versions and with a 1,200 cc engine developing 80 hp to transition to a 90 hp 1600 cm3 engine.
His successor would be a qualitative leap. In the mid-1960s, Ferrari was looking for a car manufacturer to homologate a new engine for Formula 2, a process that involved presenting a series model that would fit under the hood. In Mirafiori they opened the doors to the ‘Cavallino Rampante’ and with a Pininfarina design, the FIAT Dino (1966-73) was launched. The spectacular Spider version featured luxurious details such as the steering wheel and dashboard with precious wood accents and was able to reach a speed of 200 km/h, thanks to the competition mechanics developing 180 hp.
At the same time, FIAT included more affordable alternatives in its range, such as the FIAT 850 Spider, a coquettish, aerodynamic two-seater in Bertone design and a 49 hp 843 cm3 engine, and above all the FIAT 124 Sport Spider, which entered the market between 1961 and 1981. FIAT catalog remained, and was marketed by Pininfarina until 1985.
In the 1980s and 1990s, FIAT focused on developing casual convertible versions of its more urban models. Thus, between 1981 and 1988, the FIAT Ritmo Cabrio, designed by Bertone and presented at the 1979 Frankfurt Motor Show, was launched. The Chrono and Bianco special series were very well received. In 1994, Bertone would develop the FIAT Punto Cabrio, which could be purchased with an electric or manual roof and which became one of the most affordable convertibles in those years.
However, FIAT did not neglect its most sybaritic clientele and spoiled them with proposals such as the FIAT Barchetta (19995-2006), clearly inspired by the nautical world and motorsport.
Today, there are several options in the FIAT 500 range to enjoy open-air driving, such as the electric FIAT 500 Convertible, the FIAT (500)RED Convertible or the FIAT 500 La Prima by Bocelli Convertible.
Source: La Verdad
I am Ida Scott, a journalist and content author with a passion for uncovering the truth. I have been writing professionally for Today Times Live since 2020 and specialize in political news. My career began when I was just 17; I had already developed a knack for research and an eye for detail which made me stand out from my peers.
