Celebrating the Art of Italian Coachbuilding
Celebrating the Art of Italian Coachbuilding
The Fiat 500 Spiaggina by Pietro Frua.
The Fiat 500 Spiaggina Frua, a beach version of the iconic Fiat 500, was masterfully interpreted by the renowned designer Pietro Frua for the 1957 Turin Motor Show. Frua’s vision introduced a distinct aesthetic characterized by clean and straight lines, revolutionizing the traditional design of the Fiat 500. One of the most striking features of the Fiat 500 Spiaggina Frua is the innovative placement of the headlights. Unlike conventional designs, Frua ingeniously incorporated the headlights under the front windshield, with the rear lights positioned behind the door line. This unique design solution was inspired by the lights found on motorboats, lending the Fiat 500 Spiaggina Frua a distinctive and original appearance reminiscent of seaside leisure and elegance. By evoking the imagery of motorboats, Frua infused the Spiaggina with a sense of adventure and leisure, perfectly suited for beachside escapades and coastal cruising. This design innovation not only enhanced the visual appeal of the Spiaggina but also underscored its playful and carefree spirit, capturing the essence of the Italian Riviera lifestyle. With its iconic design and timeless charm, this Frua Beach car remains a beloved symbol of Italian automotive heritage, celebrated for its innovation, style, and evocative design elements that continue to inspire enthusiasts around the world.
The birth of the Spiaggina (Spiaggia = Beach) takes place in the immediate post-war period at the initiative of some Italian coachbuilders which transformed small mass production cars in order to make them suitable for the needs of wealthy customers during the holiday period in the seaside resorts.
