Enzo Ferrari, according to none other than Sergio Pininfarina, invented the word "Berlinetta." He derived it from "Berlina," which means sedan, but it was meant to designate his coupes which, aside from the racing models, were intended to blend the comfort of a sedan with the power and speed of Ferrari's open sports cars. Other manufacturers soon picked up on it until any 2-seater with a roof could be a Berlinetta. Remember the Camaro?
This beautiful coupe is true to the origins of the word. But it's not a Ferrari, even though it may resemble one. It's a Fiat 8V or "Otto Vu" as the coupe was more commonly known. The car came about when the mandarins at Fiat decided the company needed to add some excitement to the range. The project began with an engine, a sophisticated 2-liter, 70-degree V-8, but then it was decided that a significant engine needed a special Berlinetta body to show it off. The car above is one of 24 early examples and was intended for racing. Interestingly, the body was designed, not by Farina, but by Carrozzeria Zagato.
This 1954 Fiat 8V is one of the highlights of Gooding & Company's Pebble Beach auction. Though the lineup includes cars of greater rarity and performance I've decided to show the Otto Vu here because it's a Fiat and I love the fact that a company best known for affordable family cars can produce such a desireable sports car. A two-time Mille Miglia participant, it has had an engine and bodywork restoration performed by top European specialists.
Suitable for touring, showing, or participating in vintage rallying, Gooding & Company estimates that this valuable Fiat 8V will sell for $675,000-$750,000 at its 2010 Pebble Beach Auction.
[Photos by Pawel Litwinski © 2010 Courtesy of Gooding & Company]
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July 9, 2010 @ 3:49 am