The ultimate italian coachbuilder site
The ultimate italian coachbuilder site
The 1,996cc V8 engine of the Fiat 8V, known as the “Otto Vu”, was the work of Dante Giacosa and was highly original, with its raised exhaust.
Agile and powerful, the engine made its debut in 1952 on the Siata 208 CS before being used on the Fiat 8V. The Fiat, designed to promote the marque’s image, clocked up considerable sporting successes, which included winning the 1954 Italian GT Championship in the 2 litre category. With a tubular chassis, the car was equipped with all round independent suspension. Despite its promising qualities, Fiat decided to end its career in 1954. In addition to the streamlined body developed by Fiat, several Italian coachbuilders tried out their talents on the chassis.
This was the case with the exceptional coupé that we are delighted to present, which was the first of thirteen examples bodied by Vignale. The design, a subtle combination of aggression, sportiness and elegance, was the work of Michelotti, who was an unconventional character and known for spectacular creations, such as the famous “Démon Rouge” which was also based on the 8V. The same body was also used on a MG TD chassis.
In March 1952, Fiat surprised the world at the Geneva Motor Show with the Fiat 8V. A two-seater sports car that was also designed as a racing car. What was surprising was that Fiat had not shown any interest in re-entering the racing scene up to this point.
