The ultimate italian coachbuilder site
The ultimate italian coachbuilder site
Carrozzeria Canta started in 1949 to build bodies with its own brand working with the designer Giovanni Michelotti.
The Fiat 1100 TV Canta, often referred to by enthusiasts as the “Studebaker Fiat” due to its striking resemblance to the American classic, is a notable example of mid-20th-century Italian automotive design. Created by Carrozzeria Canta in 1954, the model was based on Fiat 1100 and 1400 chassis and featured design elements reminiscent of the Studebaker Champion. The connection earned the 1100 TV Canta its unofficial “Studebaker” nickname among admirers. Designed by Giovanni Michelotti, the car was initially met with widespread public acclaim for its stylish interpretation of American trends blended with Italian craftsmanship. However, the resemblance to the Studebaker Champion soon caught the attention of Studebaker‘s legal team, raising concerns over potential design infringement. To avoid legal complications, Carrozzeria Canta was forced to rethink the design and make changes. By late 1954, a revised version of the Fiat 1100 TV Canta was introduced with a more distinct aesthetic, moving away from the elements that earned it the “Studebaker” moniker. This redesign allowed Canta to continue producing the model without the risk of legal issues. The evolution of the 1100 TV Canta reflects the delicate balance between inspiration and originality in automotive design. Initially, Michelotti’s ability to capture and reinterpret popular American styling trends in a distinctly Italian context helped the model stand out. However, the swift redesign in response to legal pressure demonstrated Canta’s agility and creativity in navigating these challenges. In the end, the Fiat 1100 TV Canta, with its brief “Studebaker” association, found its unique identity, securing its place in the rich tapestry of 1950s automotive history. Its story remains a reminder of the complex interplay between innovation, inspiration, and the need to adapt in a competitive and often legally fraught industry.
In 1960 the entrepreneur and importer Renato Bornigia commissioned Pietro Frua and Francis Lombardi to carry out a project to mass-produce (1000 cars) a variant of the Studebaker Lark in 2-door coupe and 4-door sedan versions.
