Beschreibung:

Based on the highly successful 508 Balilla saloon - the first Fiat of the inter-war years to be named as well as numbered - the 508S Balilla Sport competition version was inspired by an original design by Carrozzeria Ghia. Fiat purchased the rights and manufactured two versions; the Coppa d'Oro (Gold Cup) and lightweight Mille Miglia, named after successes gained in these demanding long distance events. Clothed in stylish open two-seater bodywork with finned tail, the original Balilla was powered by a tuned version of the saloon's 995cc four-cylinder side valve engine. The latter drove the rear wheels via a three-speed gearbox and was installed in a cruciform braced chassis equipped with Lockheed hydraulic brakes and wire wheels. Introduced in 1934, the second series improved on this successful formula, adopting a four-speed synchromesh gearbox and an overhead-valve engine producing 46bhp. Despite its age, the Balilla Sport was still winning races in the immediately post-war years, adding to a formidable reputation built on numerous victories in classic events in the pre-World War 2 era, including the Mille Miglia, Monte Carlo Rally, Targa Florio, Spa Francorchamps 24-Hour, Ulster TT and Le Mans. This unusual Fiat 508 coupe was purchased by the vendor about twelve years ago from a private UK collection and has been maintained ever since with additional specialist care undertaken by M. G. Reeders of Wiltshire. It is unknown when this car was made into a coupe but it would make an ideal project for a rebuild into a Fiat 508 Balilla Sport Mille Miglia replica. Finished in maroon with grey interior, this lovely little car is supplied with a V5C registration document and an MoT test certificate. This is a very pretty pre-war Fiat which represents an affordable entry into modern-day rallies and events such as the Mille Miglia or the Classic Le Mans.