FIAT 1600 Classic Cars for Sale

History of the FIAT 1600

The FIAT 1600, also known as the FIAT OSCA 1600 S, was created in the early 1960s as a joint project between Fiat, Maserati's O.S.C.A. division, and Pininfarina. Built between 1962 and 1963, the car inherited its technical platform from the FIAT 1200 Trasformabile. Pininfarina’s design introduced a new level of sophistication to the open (Spider) and the coupé body styles. Integration of the O.S.C.A.-developed twin-cam engine, derived directly from the renowned Maserati Osca MT4, placed the FIAT 1600 firmly in the tradition of Italian sporting excellence. Production numbers were extremely low, with only around 200 to 300 Spiders and 814 Coupés produced, amplifying the car’s exclusivity today. The FIAT 1600 enjoyed an immediate association with the European "Dolce Vita" lifestyle and quickly became a common sight at prestigious concours events and historical rallies across the continent.

Model History

The FIAT 1600 sits within a lineage characterised by innovation and Italian elegance. Its predecessor, the FIAT 1200 Trasformabile, set the technical foundation, while the 1600 advanced the formula with advanced O.S.C.A. engine technology and a sharper design ethos. Designed by Pininfarina and constructed in part at Fiat facilities, with specialist components delivered by O.S.C.A., the 1600 represented a unique fusion of manufacturing disciplines. After its short production run, there was no direct successor in the Fiat lineup to carry the O.S.C.A. badge, marking the 1600 as the culmination of the Fiat and Maserati (O.S.C.A.) collaboration. The car’s strong motorsport DNA, luxurious features, and limited availability have cemented its position in the history books.

Highlights of the FIAT 1600

The most distinctive feature of the FIAT 1600 is its O.S.C.A.-developed engine. Featuring two overhead camshafts and aluminium construction, it delivers approximately 90 hp from 1568 cm³, inspired by competitive racing technology. The asymmetrical hood bulge (‘Gobba’), is a result of the engine’s twin-carburettor setup and is a visual hallmark. Other highlights include four disc brakes for all-round stopping power, optional Borrani wire wheels, and interior accents such as a Nardi steering wheel and finely finished materials. Rarity is a key factor with only a handful produced, and both Spider and Coupé variants exist.

Technical Data

Special Editions and Collectible Models

Within the FIAT 1600 series, both the FIAT OSCA 1600 S Spider and the Pininfarina-designed FIAT 118 SB 1600S Coupé stand out as the principal collectible models. The Spider versions, especially those with original parts and ASI certification, are especially coveted. Low production numbers and features such as the Borrani wire wheels or Nardi steering wheel further elevate the exclusivity and collectibility of individual vehicles.

Engine and Performance, Transmission and Handling

The O.S.C.A. engine—lightweight, all-aluminium, and twin-cam—lends the FIAT 1600 lively performance. It delivers responsive acceleration for its era, complemented by a crisp manual gearbox. The chassis, inherited from the 1200 Trasformabile, is lightweight and agile, enhanced by four-wheel disc brakes. The low kerb weight and high-revving nature of the engine endow the car with agile handling and strong cornering abilities for a 1960s roadster. Popular variants include the FIAT OSCA 1600 S Spider and the FIAT 118 SB 1600S Coupé, each distinguished by the O.S.C.A. twin-cam engine and distinctive Pininfarina styling. The Spider, with its open configuration, tends to be more sought after, especially with factory original options.

Interior, Comfort, Exterior and Design

Pininfarina’s involvement is manifest in the elegant, flowing lines of both the Spider and Coupé variants. Special design touches include the off-centre bonnet bulge, unique air intake on the bonnet, and refined details such as the classic Nardi steering wheel. Interior finish features high-quality materials consistent with the period’s best Italian sports cars, along with additional accessories like optional Borrani wheels and a puntapiedi (footrest) for the passenger. The blend of functional sportiness and style reflects the 'Dolce Vita' spirit that defines the 1960s Italian motoring culture.

Other Relevant Features

The FIAT 1600’s entry into prestigious historical events like the Coppa d'Oro delle Dolomiti attests to its ongoing recognition in classic car circles. Vehicles with original documentation and official certifications (such as the ASI attest) enjoy especially high interest in the collector community.

Summary

The FIAT 1600 encapsulates a brief but meaningful collaboration between Fiat, O.S.C.A., and Pininfarina—producing a car that combines advanced racing engine technology, elegant Italian design, and sporting prowess. Its rarity, coupled with distinctive technical features and a celebrated design, make it a reference point for connoisseurs of 1960s Italian sports cars.