Fina Sport Special

Vehicle Overview

The Fina Sport Special was a limited-production grand touring vehicle developed in the early 1950s through a collaboration between American automotive entrepreneur Perry Fina and Carrozzeria Vignale of Turin. The project sought to combine American drivetrain components with European coachbuilt bodywork, in the tradition of transatlantic custom vehicles of the period. Assembly was completed in Italy, with final mechanical integration occurring in the United States. The chassis employed was a modified version of a standard Ford ladder-type frame, shortened to approximately 105 inches in wheelbase. Power was supplied by a Cadillac V8 engine, adapted for this application and estimated to produce approximately 300 horsepower. Transmission was a four-speed Hydramatic automatic unit. The suspension system comprised a knee-action front setup with dual shocks and a rear arrangement consisting of semi-elliptical leaf springs and dual dampers. Braking was by drum units on all four wheels, with power assistance offered as an option. The exterior bodywork was executed in aluminum and steel by Vignale, styled as a two-door coupé or convertible with proportions reflecting contemporary Italian design principles. Features included a panoramic wraparound windscreen, Borrani wire wheels with knock-off hubs, and Marchal lighting equipment. The vehicle measured approximately 188 inches in length and stood 54 inches in height. The estimated maximum speed was in the range of 120 miles per hour. Interior appointments were tailored for comfort and presentation, incorporating reclining front seats upholstered in calfskin leather, a Nardi-Denese steering wheel fabricated in aircraft-grade duralumin and polished wood, and a full complement of instruments including a tachometer calibrated to 6,000 RPM. Additional standard equipment included a heater, defroster, and AM radio. The Fina Sport Special debuted at the 1954 World Motor Sports Show in New York City, receiving the Grand Prix in the Custom Sports Car Division. A convertible version followed in 1956, exhibited at the Philadelphia Autorama, where it was awarded Best of Show. Despite favourable reception, production remained limited to three known units due to high production costs and lack of industrial backing.