Fiat 1100R Familiare

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Introduced in 1953, the Fiat 1100 marked a major departure for the Italian car giant as it was one of the first of their cars to have a modern monocoque body.

Fiat also built a new 1221cc power unit for the new model which may have looked from the outside much like the old Nuova Balilla engine, but was in fact completely different. A column shift controlled the four-speed gearbox with drive going to the rear wheels. Although the saloon was pretty standard fare, the 103 TV (‘Turismo Veloce’), was fun to drive, producing 50bhp. An estate version, the Familiare, joined the range in 1954.

The second-generation models from 1956 boasted more power at 53bhp and the 103D model, with a longer boot, revised grille and better brakes, supplemented the range in 1957. At the same time a 103H Lusso version with 50bhp was offered. The revised 1100D came in 1963 and featured new, cleaner styling.

The final version, named 1100R, was launched in February 1966 and saw the return of the 1089cc power plant. While this replaced the previous 1221cc engine, it was not the retrograde step it might appear as the Fiat engineers had refined the manifolds, valves and ignition to produce almost the same power. Further improvements were made with the installation of front disc brakes, a floor gear-change and a new front grille.

It presents the next owner with an interesting dilemma. How much patina to retain? Would it be possible to do a thorough mechanical fettle and keep the amazing shabby chic exterior? It would be the toast of the Goodwood Revival car park with a fine picnic of ciabatta, salami, a bottle of Barolo and a soundtrack of 250F’s howling in the background. Then again, perhaps a thorough restoration complete with new paint could be the way forward?

Whichever route you choose, you are guaranteed to be in an exclusive club! And spares should not be a problem as, amazingly, the 1100 lives on in India as the Premier Padmini powered by 1100cc and 1400cc engines.

Part of a collection of small Italian cars amassed by the vendor, this 1100 Familiare comes with a NOVA form (Notice Of Vehicle Arrival), a Fiat UK dating letter authenticating the year and model, and is ready for the new owner to register with DVLA, which will make them the first UK owner in the V5C logbook.