Giannini Classic Cars for Sale

History of Giannini

The story of Giannini dates back to 1920 in Rome, when Attilio and Domenico Giannini started a workshop specialising in repairs and performance upgrades, especially for racing engines. The brothers quickly made a name for themselves through their work on race engines—most notably, a Giannini-modified Itala Tipo 61 clinched victory in the Mille Miglia in 1927. During the 1930s, Giannini shifted focus to smaller Fiat models such as the 500 Topolino, doubling their output and breaking world records. Post-war, Giannini explored their own engine designs (notably the G1 and G2), but financial difficulties in the early 1960s led to a split. The company reformed as Giannini Automobili, remaining closely linked to Fiat, and channelled energy into refined conversions and service. Throughout the 1960s to the 1980s, Giannini played a significant role in Italian motorsport, though international success eluded them. Today, Giannini focuses on bespoke modification and close collaboration with Fiat.

Model History

Giannini's portfolio primarily centres on modified Fiat platforms, with the 500/Cinquecento family being the most prevalent. Early efforts focused on upgrades for racing and daily usability, leading to a series of increasingly sophisticated versions—TV (Turismo Veloce), TVL, TVS, and the 750 TV 'Fanalona' among the best-known. Later, Giannini expanded its expertise to models including the 126, 128, 700, and 850, although these make up a much smaller share of production and collector interest. The brand's formula nearly always involved more powerful engines, recalibrated suspension, and unique stylistic elements. Notably, the rare 350GP and LPG-converted variants (like the GK 3) mark the persistent spirit of ingenuity at Giannini.

Highlights and Special Features

Giannini vehicles distinguish themselves with authentic Italian engineering and numerous detailed upgrades. Motors are often reworked with enhanced camshafts, pistons, cylinder heads, and specialised induction systems (Weber or Dell'Orto carburettors). Suspension and braking systems are upgraded to match, with options for disc brakes, gas-pressure dampers, and reinforced chassis. Many cars showcase original or restored interiors with custom leatherwork, anatomical sports seats, factory-style instruments (often Veglia-Borletti), and period accessories like Momo steering wheels. The 'Fanalona' boasts oversized headlamps, further setting it apart. Giannini cars are often sought on enthusiast platforms, maintaining strong provenance with original badges, documentation, and parts. Participation in historic registers (such as ASI) is common, underscoring their reputation among connoisseurs.

Technical Data

Special Editions and Collectible Models

Among the rarest Giannini creations is the 350GP, introduced in 2017 to celebrate the firm's centenary. With extremely limited production, this model embodies a modern homage to Giannini's roots in performance tuning. Historically, the 750 TV 'Fanalona' and GK 3 LPG represent limited or innovative editions, the latter notable for its efficiency and city focus. Custom interiors, exclusive paint finishes, and period extras enhance collectible appeal.

Engine, Performance, and Handling

Engineered for spirited driving, Giannini cars benefit from high-compression engines, custom camshafts, sports carburation, and tuned suspensions. Many models feature short-ratio gearboxes and stiffer chassis setups, providing agile handling and responsive acceleration. Braking systems are frequently uprated versus donor Fiats, while modifications to axles and differentials accommodate increased power. These changes deliver a lively, tactile driving experience that feels at home both on the track and city roads. - Giannini 500 TV: 68.4% supply, 57.8% demand; renowned for robust motors and refined handling upgrades.

• Giannini 126: 15.8% supply, 23.9% demand; a practical yet thoroughly Italian take on the classic city car.
• Giannini 750 TV 'Fanalona': 6% supply, 11.6% demand; recognisable by larger headlights and racing pedigree.

Interior, Comfort, Exterior, and Design

Giannini's design language stands out with tricolore badgework, a closely linked racing aesthetic, and genuine Italian materials. Interiors often feature custom-stitched leather seats, distinctive dashboard layouts evoking higher speedometers, and specialised dials for oil and temperature. Externally, unique trims, oversized lights ('Fanalona'), and period wheels such as Cromodora or Fergat define the look. Frequent options include open roofs (sliding, glass, hardtop), classic fog lamps (Carello), and chromed cam covers. Many examples retain original accessories, including toolkits, manuals, and factory documentation. Originality is highly prized, restoration favours 'new old stock' parts whenever possible.

Other Features

Some Giannini builds incorporate quirky period options such as LPG conversions for urban usage or hidden power outlets for added comfort. Documented restoration histories, participation in automotive registers (ASI, Fiat), and availability of original paperwork make many examples especially desirable. The Giannini emblem, featuring a three-part shield with the word 'Roma' and a diagonal lightning bolt, adds a distinctive finishing touch reflecting the brand's origins.

Summary

Giannini's heritage is closely woven into the fabric of Italian automotive enthusiasm, representing a unique combination of performance engineering, motorsport presence, and passionate craftsmanship. Their cars—especially the 500 and 750 series—continue to appeal to enthusiasts seeking an authentically Italian, truly individual classic that stands apart from mainstream Fiat models.