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1956 Fiat 1100 TV news, pictures, and information

Sedan
Chassis Num: 297717
 
Sold for $25,740 at 2011 Bonhams.
Ing. Dante Giacosa's Fiat 1100 was among the first all-new post-WWII cars in Europe. Introduced at the 1953 Geneva Motor Show, it was a practical, good handling car, with a top speed in the neighborhood of 75 mph. The Fiat 1100 spawned many home-grown specials, including the Cisitalia 202. Many of the Formula Juniors of the late 1950s - such as Stanguellini and Taraschi - were fitted with Fiat 1100 components.

In 1954, Fiat introduced the Fiat 1100 TV ('Turismo Veloce' or Fast Touring). They were distinguishable from the base models by trim, paint schemes and horsepower. The base models had 36 horsepower while the TV was closer to 50 HP. Maximum speed was in the neighborhood of 83 mph. With good steering, brakes, and performance, many Fiat 1100 TV models were entered in the Mille Miglia. 1956 alone saw over 100 of this model entered.

The Fiat 1100 TV's were never officially imported to the United States. This example bears the personalized California plate 'GIACOSA' honoring its designer. There are 1957 and 1958 ACI (Automobile Club of Italy) decals on the forward side of the rear view mirror.

The current owner acquired this car in Pacenza, Italy in the 2000s. It is an original, unrestored car that has been well preserved. In 2002, it was piloted by Gino Munaron in the Mille Miglia.

In 2011, the car was offered for sale at the Quail Lodge presented by Bonhams auction. As bidding came to a close, the car had been sold for the sum of $25,740 inclusive of buyer's premium.

By Daniel Vaughan | Nov 2011
In 1937 Fiat introduced an updated version of their 508 Balilla, more commonly known as the 508C, with the 1100. The Fiat 1100 had a similar design to the Fiat 500 Topolino and the 1500. A four-cylinder 1089cc engine with overhead valves provided the power and powered the rear wheels through a four-speed gearbox.

The Fiat 1100B was introduced when the 1100 was treated to partial restyling around the front end. The 1100B was nicknamed the '1100 Musone', meaning big nose.

When the Second World War came to a close, the new iteration of the 1100 was soon introduced. It was given a curvy trunk and the name '1100E'.

The 1100 was treated to a redesign in 1953 resulting in a four-door sedan configuration with a monocoque bodywork and integrated front lights. This new model was dubbed the 1100/103 after its project number. This version was offered in two varieties, a 'economica' meaning cheaper and the 'normale' meaning the standard. A sporty version was later introduced, the 1100TV meaning Turismo Veloce in coupe configuration. A station-wagon version with a fifth door was later added.

In 1959 a special version known as the 1100 Granluce, meaning Large Light, was introduced. It had fin-tails and very wide windows. It could even be fitted with a new 1200 cc engine.

From 1956 through 1960 the 1100 was treated to slight aesthetic changes. It even sported small fin-tails with spear-shaped backlights for a period of time.

In 1962 Fiat introduced the third generation of the 1100 dubbed the 1100D. It was a four-door sedan similar to the Granluce but with toned-down styling and a simpler front end. This version continued in production until 1966 when the Fiat 124 was introduced. Prior to the introduction of the 124, Fiat introduced the 1100R, meaning Rinnovato. It was longer and had a square back and a front end similar to the Fiat 124. It remained in production until 1969 when it was succeeded by the Fiat 128.

By Daniel Vaughan | Apr 2008
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Fiat: 1951-1960
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1100
1200
124
128
131
1500GT
500
508
600
60HP
850
8V
Balilla
Barchetta
Bravo
Cinquecento
Croma
Dino
Freemont
Panda
Punto
Ritmo
Tipo 6
Topolino
Type 56
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