Cisitalia 202 Vignale

Vehicle Overview

The Cisitalia 202 Vignale is a limited-production variation of the Cisitalia 202 Gran Sport, distinguished by its bodywork executed by Carrozzeria Vignale of Turin. Constructed in the immediate postwar period, the vehicle embodies the convergence of engineering restraint and stylistic innovation that defined Italian automotive design in the late 1940s. The Vignale-bodied examples diverged subtly from the canonical berlinetta designed by Pininfarina, introducing individualistic elements while retaining the essential proportions and aerodynamic fluency of the 202 series. Built on the standard tubular steel chassis developed under the direction of Giovanni Savonuzzi, the Cisitalia 202 utilized mechanical components sourced principally from Fiat, most notably the 1,089 cc inline-four engine derived from the 1100 series. This engine, paired with a four-speed manual transmission, delivered approximately 55 horsepower to the rear wheels. Though modest in output, the powertrain proved effective when combined with the lightweight construction and low frontal area of the 202. Performance characteristics emphasized agility and responsiveness rather than outright speed, consistent with the vehicle’s intended role as a gentleman’s sports coupé with competition capability. Carrozzeria Vignale’s interpretation of the 202 offered discrete variations in detailing, including alternative grille treatments, revised front and rear lighting configurations, and differing roofline contours. Interiors were furnished with leather upholstery and restrained instrumentation, varying by commission and often tailored to the preferences of individual clients. The number of examples bodied by Vignale is believed to be fewer than ten, rendering them rare within the broader context of 202 production. Chassis number 165 SC is among the few documented Vignale-bodied examples. Originally delivered to Argentina, it remained in South America for several decades and was actively used in vintage touring events throughout the 1970s. Its provenance includes inclusion in a private Argentine collection and subsequent restoration in Italy. It was later presented at international concours exhibitions, including venues in Paris and Lake Como. The Cisitalia 202 Vignale occupies a marginal yet refined position in the history of the marque. As an alternative vision of a foundational postwar design, it reflects the pluralistic character of Italian coachbuilding at mid-century, where standardization and individuality coexisted within the framework of artisanal production.