Fiat 1200 Wonderful Coupe by Vignale 1958, Itália

Fiat 1200 Wonderful Coupe by Vignale 1958, Itália
Fotografia

From its distinctive and appealing looks to the quality of its recent restoration, this 1958 Fiat 1200 Wonderful Coupe is—as its fender script spells out in intricate chrome letters—a simply wonderful example of a rare and distinctive Giovanni Michelotti design.

Built by Turin-based Vignale in extremely limited numbers, perhaps as few as two production examples plus the car exhibited at the 1957 Turin Motor Show, the 1200 Wonderful Coupe incorporates the first known post-war example of what would come to be known as the targa top; the car’s removable roof panel is designed to be securely strapped down and stowed away in the car’s trunk to provide an open-air driving experience.

This car, chassis number 388137, was treated to a comprehensive nut-and-bolt restoration completed in 2018. From the black vinyl interior to the tidy engine compartment and underbody to the proper fit of all panels and excellent finish of all brightwork, attention to detail is apparent at every turn.

The Wonderful Coupe’s drivetrain is largely identical to that of a standard Fiat 1200, consisting of a 1,221-cc inline-four paired with a four-speed manual transmission. Unlike standard 1200s, however, this car’s engine—the matching-numbers powerplant, as indicated by underhood tags—was equipped new with dual carburetors, an uncommon feature.

Shown at the 2018 Concours of Elegance at Hampton Court Palace in the UK following its restoration, this 1958 Fiat 1200 Wonderful Coupe has not yet been exhibited in North America; it is eligible for concours events, where its rarity, style, and dazzling restoration are sure to be appreciated. The car is accompanied by a historical file and restoration documentation, including receipts.