1961 Autobianchi Bianchina 500 Transormabile Speciale

The Bianchina was introduced to the world at the Paris Auto Salon in the spring of 1957 and was the first car produced by the newfound union between Fiat, Bianchi, and Pirelli. It featured Fiat 500-based mechanicals, a rear-hinged door, unique trim, and luxurious appointments. The Bianchia was available in a variety of styles that ranged from functional to fashionable. They also remained in production for over a decade.

The Trasformabile versions had a unique sliding canvas roof. Approximately 35,500 examples were built between 1957 and 1962, which accounted for just 1 percent of the entire Fiat 500 production run.

This particular example was sold new in California and was one of a pair purchased by two brothers to tow behind their motor homes. Years later, this car resurfaced as a barn find and was restored from the ground up. The period-correct work allowed it to win its class in its first two concours outings and narrowly missed Best of Show honors at Concorso Italiano.

The car has the original owner's manual, a tool kit and jack, and is powered by an air-cooled 2-cylinder engine offering 17.5 horsepower. There is a four-speed manual gearbox and four-wheel hydraulic drum brakes.

By Daniel Vaughan | Oct 2014