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.
by Dan Vaughan