Fiat 1400 Rondine Coupé

Vehicle Overview

The Fiat 1400 Rondine Coupé by Monviso is a rare and elegant example of mid-century Italian coachbuilding. Created by Stabilimento Monviso, a small Turin-based coachbuilder founded in 1944 by Alessandro Casalis, the Rondine (‘swallow’ in Italian) showcases the artistry and craftsmanship that defined post-war European automotive design. Monviso, though relatively modest in size compared to its contemporaries, earned a reputation for producing high-quality custom bodies primarily on Fiat and Lancia chassis. In 1955, Monviso was acquired by Ghia, another iconic Italian coachbuilder, cementing its place in Italy’s automotive history. Produced in limited numbers between 1950 and 1953, the Rondine Coupe was designed by the Maestro Giovanni Michelotti, a celebrated Italian automotive designer known for his clean, elegant lines. The Fiat 1400 Rondine Coupé exhibits these traits with its well-proportioned, flowing bodywork. Key design features include rear-hinged, ‘suicide’ doors that add a touch of vintage charm, as well as striking two-tone paint schemes that accentuate the car’s silhouette. The Rondine’s distinctive look is both timeless and quintessentially Italian, reflecting the post-war optimism and stylistic flair of the era. Also a Cabriolet version was available. This particular Fiat 1400 Rondine, built in 1952, was originally delivered to Professor Pietro Francesco Guerrini. It remained in the Guerrini family’s ownership for four decades until it was purchased by Giorgio Resca in 1992. Later, the car passed into the hands of American collector Leo Schigiel, under whose care it underwent a comprehensive restoration. The restoration highlighted the car’s stunning combination of a grigio (gray) and amaranto (amaranth) color scheme, underscoring its period-correct elegance. As a result of its limited production, historical significance, and impeccable design by Michelotti, the Fiat 1400 Rondine is a prized collector’s item, representing a fascinating chapter in the history of Italian coachbuilding. Its bespoke craftsmanship and design make it a standout example of Monviso’s legacy.