1953 Abarth 1100 Sport by Ghia
The last of four Abarth 205 competition chassis to be constructed, this car is the only example to use an engine and transmission developed from the new Fiat 1100-103, as well as the only example bodied by Ghia. Believed to have been designed by Giovanni Michelotti, it was constructed concurrently with the Ghia-bodied Chryslers of the same period. The Abarth echoed the Chryslers’ broad oval grille opening, wide low stance, and canopy-like roof element, but with a delightful smaller scale.
Ghia exhibited the car on its stand at the 1953 Turin Salon, the same show at which the 1100-103 made its debut, thus emphasising the abilities of Abarth and Ghia to maximize the performance and style of the new model. Aldo Farinelli, in his report for the Italian magazine Motor Italia, described the car as 'A Masterpiece of Design.'
RM Sotheby's will be offering this car at their upcoming Monterey auction between the 18-19th August. For more information on this and other vehicles at the sale, click on the link below. Photos: Angus McKenzie ©2017 Courtesy of RM Sotheby's