1970 Giannini 500

Attilio and Domenico Gianni, two brothers, opened an Itala dealership in 1920, fueled by their passion for racing. Within a short time, they were entering their vehicles into competition events such as the Mille Miglia in 1927, when one of their vehicles captured an impressive class win.

In 1938 the Topolino was introduced and the Gianni business flourished as their interpretation of the vehicle set numerous world records. They were often re-bodied as a single-seater 500 and outfitted with a 499cc engine with a Siata cylinder head.

As time progressed, so did the engines, as well as the rest of the mechanical components. The G1 was their first engine; it was a 600 cc single overhead cam which was later replaced by the G2, a double overhead cam 750cc unit.

Giannini used the Fiat 500 to build both road and race versions. Many of the racers went on to win many victories and championships. As time progressed, homologation and regulations changed. This made it difficult for Giannini to compete, as homologation rules required 5000 examples to be produced before qualifying for the competition. Giannini turned their attention away from racing and towards modifying road cars.

by Daniel Vaughan | Dec 2006