1981 Fiat 124 Sport Spider by Pininfarina

From its introduction at the Turin Auto Show in November 1966, the Fiat 124 Sport Spider 2 + 2 sports car remained in production until 1982. With 75% of the total production intended for America, Fiat certainly struck gold with the stylish Pininfarina-designed sports car. Of the nine models of the Spider, it was the 124 that found success at numerous international rallies of the early Seventies, in a partnership with Abarth that lasted until 1976.

This late 2+2 model with five speed gearbox was originally registered in the dry sunshine state of California, and then imported to the UK in 1990. The current motor engineer owner purchased the motor car in 2011 and carried out a comprehensive rebuild. The vast amount of attention to the Fiat has included: the removal of the fuel injection system and associated wiring together with the removal of the catalytic convertor (as the vehicle was registered prior to 1992, this is permitted), and the fitting of a Weber ADF twin choke carburettor and manifold and. All electrics have been checked and upgrades include new H4 headlamps and a Kenlowe electric fan; attention has been paid to the wiper motor and the steering / ignition lock, and extensive rewiring of the motor car has been carried out. The engine and gearbox units have been stripped, fully checked and reassembled with new components as required, and the braking system has been overhauled.  The lowered suspension is to Abarth specification and the motor car is equipped with a sump guard. The front chassis cross member has been replaced with an improved, strengthened unit.

Attention to the overall appearance of the Fiat has, of course, not been forgotten: the bodywork has been refurbished, the large US bumpers removed and the front flasher lamps relocated, and the interior trim and hood replaced.

Prospective purchasers are encouraged to inspect the vast history file for full details of the restoration carried out; also supplied with the Spider is Fiat workshop and parts manuals, the V5 document, the V5C registration certificate, images, invoices and past MOT test certificates.

This sublime motor car is a must for the Fiat enthusiast.