These were never sent to the US. Fiat seemed to believe that all we wanted from them were sports cars and little, fuel efficient sedans. Maybe that was true, I suppose.
The 130 is a large (by European standards) car. The body was designed by Pininfarina. The engine was a Aurelio Lampredi designed V6.
The 130 Coupe was nothing like any Fiat we ever saw in the US. The interior was downright luxurious and the body could almost be called elegant. This 130 Coupe is probably as nice a 130 Coupe as you'll ever see. The seller says it's been "cosmetically and mechanically restored to perfection". Based on the pictures I'd say that's not an exaggeration.
The seller says that under 4300 130 Coupes were built between 1969 and 1977. Other websites say that less than that were built. Whatever the number, this is a rare car in general and extremely rare in the US. (The seller claims that it might be the only one in the US.)$39,990.00 is a ton of money for a Fiat, but if you want a fast, fun, extremely rare, beautifully restored Italian car, this car is probably worth the money.
Located in San Carlos, CA, click here to see the eBay listing.
5 comments:
There is something about the proportions found in the bodywork of this car that are nearly perfect. The designers seemed to have found the magic ratio which tied the beltline, pillars, etc. together so that the car appears sleek and agile, even when parked.
I always thought that later coupes such as the Lancia Gamma or the Rolls Camargue messed with the formula in one way or another and never really had the same appeal.
This car kind of reminds me of the Ferrari 400i, but thinking of the 400i you could probably buy one in similar condition for the same money. So would you rather have a v6 fiat for 39k or a v12 Ferrari?
Anon - You are right about the price. I think there are quite a few Ferraris available in the $39K price range. The 348's have been sub 40K for a while, and the 355's will drop soon.
Anon - Good point.
Dave
Currently again on eBay, priced at $29,990 (effective 03/31/11)
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