Lot details Registration No: TP 977 Chassis No: 1258570 Mot Expiry: Sept 2007
Introduced at the 1919 Paris Salon, the Fiat Tipo IT (or 501 as 'IT' is better known) was engineered under the guidance of renowned Works Manager Avocato Carlo Cavalli. Based around a sturdy ladder frame chassis equipped with semi-elliptic leaf-sprung suspension and cable-operated drum brakes, it was powered by a smooth-running 1460cc sidevalve four-cylinder engine allied directly to a four-speed manual gearbox. Credited with developing some 23bhp @ 2,600rpm, the model could also boast such design niceties as a detachable cylinder head, water pump, cooling fan, 12-volt electrics and full-pressure lubrication. Built at Fiat's state-of-the-art Lingotto factory (famous for its rooftop racetrack), the 501 featured an ultra-low 'go anywhere' first gear yet was reputedly capable of some 50mph. Available in a wide variety of open, closed and even commercial bodystyles, the popular Fiat remained in production until 1926 by which time some 46,000 are thought to have been made.
Finished in red over black with black vinyl upholstery, this particular example is described by the vendor as being in "good" condition with regard to its engine, gearbox, electrical equipment, interior trim, chassis and bodywork. While, he considers that the "otherwise good" paintwork is "showing some distress in areas". A three-door four-seater tourer, 'TP 977' is thought to retain its original factory fitted coachwork (a supposition partially supported by the presence of plaques from both 'Fiat - Lingotto' and 'English Motor Agencies Ltd, Southsea & Harrow'). Riding on 19-inch artillery wheels, it sports a wooden dashboard, two-piece windscreen, bulb horn, calormeter and rear luggage rack. Stated to have had over £1,100 spent on its dynamo, gearbox and clutch recently, this charming Vintage Fiat is offered for sale with MOT certificate valid until September 26th 2007.v
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