Fiat 1400 Touring

Vehicle Overview

The Fiat 1400 Touring represents Fiat’s pioneering effort to integrate the Superleggera construction technique into a mass-production chassis. This innovation emerged in 1950, prompted by a request from a delegation of Fiat dealers led by Ovidio Capelli. In response, Carrozzeria Touring built a limited series of 200 berlinettas based on the new Fiat 1400, Fiat’s medium-sized vehicle featuring a unibody structure. Produced at Touring’s factory on Via Ludovico da Breme in Milan, the Fiat 1400s were transformed into stylish two-door, four-seater berlinettas. These vehicles were characterized by an aluminum body, a large grille that underwent several modifications, whitewall tires, and a tail design reminiscent of the Alfa Romeo 6C 2500 SS Villa d’Este. The design, crafted by Federico Formenti, combined elegance with the innovative spirit of the era. Among the 200 berlinettas, at least three were further lightened and enhanced with an Abarth performance kit. This enhancement not only reduced weight but also significantly improved the car’s performance. One of these enhanced models was driven by Ovidio Capelli himself, who triumphed at the XI Giro di Sicilia in 1951, showcasing the vehicle’s competitive capabilities. The Fiat 1400 Touring wasn’t just a marvel of engineering and performance; it was also celebrated for its beauty. Designed by Federico Formenti, the berlinetta’s aesthetics garnered significant attention. It participated in numerous concours d’elegance, including the prestigious 1950 Concorso d’Eleganza Lido di Venezia, where it won the category prize, cementing its status as a design icon. This model’s blend of advanced construction, elegant design, and competitive prowess marked a significant milestone in automotive history. It demonstrated how innovative techniques like the Superleggera structure could be successfully applied to mass-produced vehicles, setting a precedent for future automotive developments. The Fiat 1400 Touring stands as a testament to Fiat’s commitment to innovation and excellence in both design and performance.