1959 Moretti Tour de Monde Coupe

In 1925 Giovanni Moretti formed the Moretti Company with the purpose of building motorcycles. During the early years of its existence, Moretti experimented with the production of commercial vehicles, electric, and alternate fuel vehicles. In 1946, he switched to the production of conventional automobiles. Their first offering was the 'Cita', followed by the 600. In 1953 the 750 was introduced.

By the close of the 1950s, Moretti switched from the production of complete automobiles, to using Fiat mechanical components for use in his automobiles. Their versions of the Fiat products were offered in a variety of body styles, including Saloons, Coupes, Spyders, Estates, and more. Still, Moretti found it difficult to compete as his vehicles cost nearly double the price of the Fiats.

In 1957 the Moretti 500 Coupe, based on the Fiat 500, was shown at the Turin Motor Show. This was quickly followed by the 600 Spyder. Variants based on other Fiat and Alfa Romeo followed. A line of small-capacity 'Fours' displacing 600cc and 750cc became a part of Moretti's line, adding a wide and diverse range of vehicles for such a small marque. Some of the engines had single overhead camshafts, while others featured twin-cam heads.

Vignale and Michelotti were often commissioned by Moretti to create the designs for his automobiles. This process was later disbanded, and Moretti brought the design process in-house.

Moretti, like many other Italian automakers, was involved with motorsports. The list of accomplishments includes long-distance rallies and entering the LeMans 24-Hour race. Other endeavors include the occasional monoposto racer and even a Formula Junior car.

The Moretti Tour de Monde Coupe was designed for small displacement racing classes during the 1950s and 1960s. They were powered by high-revving 750cc engines and mated to a four-speed gearbox. Numerous body styles were offered, with most outfitted with coachwork by Zagato and Ghia. This example is fitted with Ghia's coachwork and has spent most of its life in Arizona and California.

In the early 2000s, it was given a partial restoration, including new paint and interior. To add to the usability, a custom electronic ignition was installed.

Around 150 examples of the Moretti Coupés were built, and it is estimated that fewer than half are still in existence. A rare opportunity was presented when this was brought to the 2007 Bonhams Auction, An Important Sale of Collectors' Motorcars and Automobilia, held at the Quail Lodge Resort & Golf Club in Carmel, California. This car with Ghia coachwork sold for $24,000 plus premium and taxes. It is a gorgeous car with rear and exclusive coachwork and carrying the nameplate of the Italian marque, Moretti.

By Daniel Vaughan | Apr 2008