The ultimate italian coachbuilder site
The ultimate italian coachbuilder site
The Fiat 1100 Sport Savio one-off designed by Franco Scaglione.
The Fiat 1100 Sport, crafted by Carrozzeria Savio and unveiled at the prestigious Turin Motor Show in 1953, epitomizes the fusion of engineering excellence and artistic flair that defined Italian automotive design of the era. This particular specimen, acquired for a sum of 1,900,000 lire by architect Renato Benassi, then serving as the Councilor for Cultural Heritage of the Municipality of Rome, stands as a testament to both its creator’s vision and the discerning taste of its owner. Designed by the acclaimed Franco Scaglione, renowned for his work at Carrozzeria Bertone, the Fiat 1100 Sport Savio bears the hallmarks of Scaglione’s distinctive style. Crafted entirely by hand, the car features an aluminum engine hood and trunk, meticulously crafted to reduce weight and enhance performance. Underneath the sleek exterior lies a meticulously reworked mechanical heart, courtesy of Autocarrozzeria Savio, aimed at elevating the car’s capabilities to new heights. Through a series of enhancements, the Fiat 1100 Sport Savio underwent a remarkable transformation. The compression ratio of the standard 1100/103 engine was increased from 6.7:1 to 7:1, resulting in a power boost from 36 to 54 horsepower at 5,100 rpm. Additionally, modifications such as the adoption of copper lead rod bearings, a polished marine-type intake manifold, special valve springs, and a segmented transmission shaft contributed to improved performance and efficiency. Suspension upgrades further enhanced the car’s handling and agility, underscoring its sporting pedigree. Despite its remarkable achievements, the Fiat 1100 Sport Savio remained a singular creation, its bespoke nature rendering it a cherished rarity among automotive enthusiasts. The combination of its exquisite craftsmanship, visionary design, and enhanced performance elevates it to the realm of automotive artistry, embodying the spirit of innovation and passion that defines Italian motoring heritage.
In the automotive design history, Franco Scaglione emerges as a pivotal figure, renowned for his influential work at Bertone. His distinctive touch, characterized by the iconic fins adorning the tail of automobile bodies, solidified his position as one of the industry’s most significant designers. This article delves into the impactful career of Franco Scaglione, highlighting his instrumental contributions to the world of automobile aesthetics
