Fiat 127 Lusso Moretti

Vehicle Overview

The Fiat 127 Lusso Moretti was a coachbuilt version of the Fiat 127, modified by the Italian firm Moretti in the early 1970s. Moretti, based in Turin, was known for creating limited-production and bespoke variations of Fiat automobiles, often with cosmetic and trim upgrades intended to appeal to customers desiring more exclusivity and refinement in small cars. Introduced in 1972, the Lusso variant retained the mechanical configuration of the standard Fiat 127, including the 903 cc inline-four engine producing approximately 47 horsepower. This powertrain, combined with a front-engine, front-wheel-drive layout and a four-speed manual gearbox, delivered reliable and economical performance in line with Fiat’s supermini class objectives. The emphasis of the Moretti version, however, was not on mechanical enhancement but on exterior styling and interior luxury. The Fiat 127 Lusso Moretti featured several unique body and trim elements distinguishing it from mass-produced models. Among these were a revised front grille, discreet Moretti badging, and specific paint options. The bumpers and lighting details were sometimes modified with additional chrome or integrated fog lamps, reflecting a more premium aesthetic. Despite these changes, the vehicle preserved the underlying structure and proportions of the base 127, avoiding major sheet metal alterations. Interior appointments in the Lusso Moretti were upgraded beyond the factory standard. Upholstery was offered in finer fabrics or synthetic leather, with added padding and decorative stitching. Door panels, dashboard treatments, and carpeting were enhanced to deliver a more comfortable and upscale environment. These details aligned with Moretti’s longstanding practice of reinterpreting Fiat vehicles with subtle elegance rather than dramatic reengineering. The Fiat 127 Lusso Moretti was produced in limited numbers and is considered rare among collectors of Italian compact cars. It stands as an example of Italian carrozzeria practices applied to mass-market platforms, highlighting the role of independent coachbuilders in offering boutique alternatives within the mainstream automotive landscape of the 1970s.