1952 FIAT TOPOLINO GIARDINIERA BELVEDERE (D194)

On offer is a very charming and largely original example of the extremely rare Fiat Topolino Giardiniera Belvedere estate car. This late series example was located by our team in Italy in very good condition, complete, straight and well cared for. The delightful 2-tone paint scheme in taupe over tan had been redone just over 5 years ago and is in a fine state. This highlights a body in remarkable overall condition for a vehicle over 60 years of age. All panels are smooth and correct, gaps in good order and this car looks sharp from any angle. Chrome, accent trim, badges, lenses, window trim and glass are all in very good order. Attractive 2-tone disc wheels are fitted with the original chrome center caps. Some items do show weathering and patina but, on balance, the car shows very well indeed.

The body features the limited production opening fabric roof option which is in fully operable condition with minimal wear or weathering of the fabric. The suicide front doors and large side opening rear door feature stout alloy latches. The unique side window latches and other interior hardware are all there and in nice condition. The interior is fully finished in correct tan vinyl which shows some aging and patina. The floors are covered with correct rubber matting. Dashboard is tidy and complete, some instruments have been reconditioned and all switches etc. are in good working order. The steering wheel does show cracks in the plastic, but functions well and remains sturdy.Body and undercarriage show no significant rust or evidence of prior corrosion repairs. The chassis has been protected over the years by wax undercoating previously applied. The front suspension has been completely redone, rear suspension inspected and lubricated as necessary, new shocks on both ends.The exhaust system is new. The entire brake system has been redone and fitted with new master cylinder, hoses, linings etc. The oil pan was pulled to allow inspection of the main and rod bearings which showed minimal wear. The carburettor was rebuilt, fuel lines replaced and a complete tune up performed, including all necessary parts renewed. A full detail and cleaning of the engine compartment has been performed. The car starts readily and drives with anticipated joy in abundance. Ride and handling are surprisingly good.The original Italian plates are included. Car comes with a new set of period correct tires, in addition to the original tires which are mounted for shipping.A really special example of a truly rare and unique example of the charm and functionality of the classic Fiat Topolino estate. The car is a joy to drive and will inspire the love and devotion of many. Excellent color scheme, remarkable condition, just enough patina and mechanically well attended, this collectable will put a smile on your face every time you fire it up.All import paperwork is in order, and fees and duty paid. Comes with current

California title.

MODEL HISTORY

A true legend in Italy, the Fiat Topolino was introduced in 1936 and proved immediately popular. The design and clever engineering are credited to Dante Giacosa and considered quite advanced for the period. The very compact size was an excellent fit for Italian cities and roads, and the simple and straightforward design proved economical and durable. The original version was dubbed the Model A and continued in production until 1948 when the updated Model B was introduced. Model A was available in three body styles, a 2-door saloon, 2-door convertible and 2-door van. The Model B added a 3-door estate car called the Giardiniera with an exterior “woodie” treatment. The final series Model C debuted in 1950 and was in production until 1955 with over 500,000 Topolinos eventually being sold. The Model C version of the 3-door estate was called the Giardiniera Belvedere and the wood exterior panelling was replaced with metal. This particular model was in production for only two years, being replaced with the Model C Belvedere in 1953. A very large fabric roof which opened the entire interior to the sun was optional. The Model C also featured various detail changes, improvements and styling updates including a blunt nose in keeping with the period style, replacing the previous graceful grille. Under the hood, a compact 569cc 4-cylinder side valve motor twists up all of 16HP delivered to the rear wheels via a 4-speed transmission. Top speed is just above 50 mph and fuel economy tops 39 mpg. The Topolino also offered hydraulic drum brakes, rugged suspension and reasonable overall performance for the period. The unique layout placed the motor in front of the radiator offering great service access and a lower hoodline. The 3-door estate body was particularly useful. The interior is snug, but suitable for four friends, and the cargo area of the Belvedere is readily accessed thru a large side opening door. Tools and spare tuck under the load floor in a separate compartment.

Fiat introduced the first 600 models in 1955 replacing the beloved Topolino series with a more modern vehicle better suited to the times.