Fiat Aster 132 Zagato: A Bold Fusion of Style and Innovation

Forgotten GEMS - In the world of car design, the 1960s and 1970s were a period of bold experimentation and creative freedom. During this time, automakers explored unique collaborations, leading to vehicles that pushed the boundaries of what was considered conventional. One such collaboration was between Fiat and the renowned design house Zagato, resulting in the Fiat 132 Aster. This car, although not widely produced, remains a fascinating example of design and engineering, merging the practicality of Fiat with the artistic flair of Zagato.

These two Fiat 132 Aster prototypes crafted by the talent and craftsmanship of Carrozzeria Zagato, a Milan-based coachbuilder famous for its custom designs. (Picture from: Story-Cars)

The roots of the Fiat 132 Aster lie in the talent and craftsmanship of Carrozzeria Zagato, a Milan-based coachbuilder famous for its custom designs. In an era when sleekness and individuality were highly sought after, Zagato’s approach to car design was nothing short of revolutionary. They had already made their mark on models for Lancia and Alfa Romeo, and the Fiat 132 Aster was another attempt to reshape automotive style.

The Fiat 132 Aster designed by Giuseppe Mittino, and made debut in 1972, showcased at the Turin Auto Salon. (Picture from: Story-Cars)

Designed by Giuseppe Mittino, the Fiat 132 Aster first made its appearance in 1972, showcased at the Turin Auto Salon. This green model quickly caught the attention of car enthusiasts for its unconventional looks. A year later, an orange version of the Aster was unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show, further cementing its reputation as an eye-catching, avant-garde creation. Although both cars were built on the same platform, each came with its own unique details, reflecting Zagato’s dedication to bespoke craftsmanship.

The sleek, lightweight aluminum body gave the Fiat 132 Aster (in pictured the 1st prototype) a more futuristic look, aligning with the forward-thinking design principles that Zagato was known for. (Picture from: Carrozzieri-Italiani)

What truly set the Fiat 132 Aster apart was its exterior. Unlike many cars of the time, which relied heavily on steel, the Aster’s body was crafted from aluminum. This choice of material was not only innovative but also aimed at improving both the car’s performance and aesthetics. The sleek, lightweight aluminum body gave the Aster a more futuristic look, aligning with the forward-thinking design principles that Zagato was known for. 

This choice of material was not only innovative but also aimed at improving both the Fiat 132 Aster’s performance and aesthetics. (Picture from: Carrozzieri-Italiani)

However, the use of aluminum also made production more expensive, which contributed to the car’s limited numbers. Underneath its distinctive bodywork, the Fiat 132 Aster was built with the same mechanical components as the regular Fiat 132. It came equipped with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, a reliable choice that provided solid performance. 

The Fiat 132 Aster Zagati (in pictured the 1st prototype) provided enough room for two and made out of various fabrics, dominating is the dark green Alcantara. (Picture from: Zwischengas)

While the mechanical aspects were not groundbreaking, they allowed the Aster to deliver a driving experience that was dependable, if not entirely thrilling. The focus of this car was always more on its design than its power. Despite its eye-catching looks, the Fiat 132 Aster did not receive universal praise at the time.

The Fiat 132 Aster Zagato (in pictured the 2nd prototype) came equipped with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, a reliable choice that provided solid performance. (Picture from: Carrozzieri-Italiani)

Some critics felt that its design resembled the popular styling of Japanese cars from that period, which detracted from its intended originality. The high cost of production, due to the use of aluminum, further prevented the Aster from entering mass production. As a result, only two prototypes were ever built, making it a rare piece of automotive history.

The high cost of production, due to the use of aluminum, further prevented the Fiat 132 Aster Zagato (in pictured the 2nd prototype) from entering mass production. (Picture from: ArchivioPrototipi.it)

Today, the Fiat 132 Aster stands as a reminder of a time when automakers were willing to take risks in design and materials. Though it never reached the production line, its bold design choices and the collaboration between Fiat and Zagato make it an interesting chapter in the evolution of automotive design. | NVOIXOfyT0Q |

Each detail of the car, from its aluminum body to its unique appearance, reflects the spirit of experimentation that defined the 1970s. The Fiat 132 Aster may not have changed the car industry, but it remains a symbol of the creative potential that existed when art and engineering came together. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | CARROZZIERI-ITALIANI | STORY-CARS | ARCHIVIOPROTOTIPI.IT | ZWISCHENGAS ]

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