Fiat-Abarth Zagato Spider: A Rare Gem in Automotive History

UNiqUE Ones - The history of Abarth is filled with innovation and a strong connection to motorsport, showcasing a remarkable journey from producing performance parts to crafting high-performance vehicles. Abarth, founded by Carlo Abarth, initially focused on creating induction and exhaust systems, mainly for Fiat vehicles. Over time, the company evolved, venturing into the production of performance kits that significantly enhanced the capabilities of standard production cars. This passion for speed and performance eventually led to the development of a series of stylish sports prototypes and limited-series production cars, solidifying Abarth's reputation in the automotive world.

The Fiat Abarth 750 Zagato Spider was developed as an evolution of the model after the success of the Coupé, with Abarth recognizing the potential market for a convertible version. (Picture from: Bonham)

One of Abarth's most notable achievements was the creation of a series of GT cars based on the Fiat 600 platform. The first in this line was the Abarth 750, a striking coupé that made its debut in 1956. Designed by the renowned coachbuilder Zagato, the 750 was more than just a pretty face; it was a testament to Abarth's engineering prowess. The car utilized the Fiat 600 chassis with minimal modifications, primarily focusing on adjusting the spring rates and upgrading the front brakes to a twin-leading-shoe system. These seemingly minor changes were enough to handle the significantly increased power output of the modified engine.

The design of the Fiat Abarth 750 Zagato Spider, as seen in the 1957 prototype, was rejected by Carlo Abarth, leading to most of the Abarth 750 Spiders being produced by Allemano instead. (Picture from: Zagato-Cars)

The original Fiat 600 engine was a modest 633 cc four-cylinder unit, producing 23 bhp at 4,000 rpm. However, Abarth transformed this engine by increasing its displacement to 747 cc and extensively modifying or replacing nearly every component. The result was a remarkable boost in performance, with the engine now delivering 44 bhp at 6,000 rpm.

The first Fiat-Abarth Zagato 750 Spyder prototype was showcased at the Turin Auto Show in 1957, followed by a second example the next year. (Picture from: Carstyling.ru)

This impressive upgrade allowed the Abarth Zagato 750 GT to achieve outstanding performance figures for its time. In a test conducted by The Autocar magazine in 1958, the car completed the standing quarter-mile in just 20 seconds and reached a top speed of 95 mph. These numbers were exceptional for a small-engined car, making the Abarth Zagato 750 GT a formidable competitor on both the road and the track.

It is believed that only two to four Fiat Abarth 750 Zagato Spider cars were ever constructed, making them exceptionally rare and highly sought after by collectors today. (Picture from: Bonham)

The success of the coupé naturally led to considerations of expanding the model range, and Abarth recognized the potential market for a convertible version. The first of the Fiat-Abarth Zagato Spider version was showcased at the Turin Auto Show in 1957, followed by a second example the next year. However, despite the interest, Zagato was heavily occupied with producing coupés, leaving little time for Spider production. As a result, only a few examples of the Spider were ever built, each one unique in its own right. It is believed that only two to four of these cars were ever constructed, making them exceedingly rare and highly sought after by collectors today.

The Fiat Abarth 750 Zagato Spider is powered by a 747cc four-cylinder engine from the Fiat 600, which, after being upgraded by Abarth, now delivers 44 bhp at 6,000 rpm. (Picture from: Bonham)

One of the surviving Abarth Zagato Spiders is particularly intriguing due to its possible connection to the famous French comic actor Fernandel, whose real name was Fernand Contandin. According to unconfirmed information from the French Department of Vehicle Registration (Departement des Cartes Grises), this particular Spider's first owner was likely Fernandel, adding an extra layer of historical significance to the car.

The Fiat Abarth 750 Zagato Spider is constructed primarily of aluminum, except for part of the rear, which adds to its lightweight and sporty character. (Picture from: Bonham)

The bodywork of this rare Spider is constructed primarily of aluminum, except for part of the rear, which adds to its lightweight and sporty character. Over the years, the engine has been replaced with another Abarth unit, ensuring that the car retains its performance pedigree. Although not currently installed, the correct Abarth hubcaps are included with the car, providing a finishing touch to its authentic appearance. | kHNkINvQSQk |

This Abarth Zagato Spider transcends being merely a car; it embodies a significant chapter in automotive history, showcasing the exceptional craftsmanship of one of Italy's premier coachbuilders. Its distinct lineage and limited production make this charming Spider a highly coveted acquisition for collectors and enthusiasts alike. Owning such a rare vehicle, particularly one with a possible link to a celebrated figure like Fernandel, is an exceptional opportunity, cementing this Abarth Zagato Spider as a true treasure in the realm of classic automobiles. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | ZAGATO-CARS | BONHAM | CARROZZERIERI-ITALIANI | CARSTYLING.RU ]

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