1955 Siata 300BC

SIATA (Società Italiana Applicazioni Techniche Auto-Aviatorie) was founded in 1926 by an amateur racing driver called Giorgio Ambrosini with the purpose of tuning cars, mainly FIATs, and selling performance equipment. When peacetime resumed following World War II, SIAT turned to making its own gearboxes and engines, along with a diverse range of models.

Launched at the 1952 Geneva Salon, the Mario Revelli de Beaumont penned and Bertone built 300BC was intended to for the lucrative U.S. market, the company's second-largest market behind Italy. de Beaumont's work experience included time at many of Italy's finest styling houses, most notably Pininfarina, and the 300 BC was clearly an extension of Pinin Farina's Grand Sport design.

Siata produced approximately 50 examples of the 500 BC (known as the Spyder in the U.S. and Barchetta in other markets) with the final 10 (approximately) examples were constructed by Turin-based Motto. Power was sourced from either Crosley or Fiat-derived engines, though some were imported devoid of drivetrains. The tuned Crosley inline four-cylinder engine had powered a Crosley Hotshot to the Index of Performance victory at the first-ever Sebring endurance race and became a small-bore champion in Gordinis and Siatas, among other sports racers. Early examples were equipped with the 750-cubic centimeter Crosley engine while later examples were often fitted with specially tuned Fiat 1100 motors.

Many of the mechanical components installed in the Siata were intended for competition including the large Stanguellini brakes. The front suspension was independent with transverse leaf springs while the rear was comprised of semi-elliptic leaf springs.

The lightweight 300BC, often referred to as the 750 Spider in period American advertising, was well-balanced with crisp handling and an outstanding chassis design. At a fraction of the price of the day's four-cylinder Ferrari, and nearly equal in heritage and performance, the Siata offered privateers a relative bargain and plenty of track potential. The 300 BC soon dominated the SCCA racing scene.

by Daniel Vaughan | Nov 2021