1959 Autobianchi Bianchina Trasformabile
Chassis no. 012492
Engine no. 063054
479 cc OHV Inline 2-cylinder Air-cooled Engine
Weber Single-choke Carburetor
27bhp at 4000rpm
4-Speed Manual Rear Transaxle
4-Wheel Hydraulic Drum Brakes
4-Wheel Independent Suspension
*Fiat 500-based two-seat micro-car
*One of an estimated 1500 Bianchinas exported to the United States
*Low mileage example
*Recent cosmetic restoration
THE AUTOBIANCHI
Bianchi's association with Fiat and Pirelli helped Eduardo Bianchi become a captain of Italian industry. The Autobianchi proved to be a dependable, reliable and economical means of transport for young, middle-class Italian families and small companies. The Bianchina was offered for only a few years beginning in the late 1950s into the early 1960s; it was essentially a customized Fiat 500, using that basic mass-produced unit chassis and its rear-mounted, sub-half-liter-inline air-cooled twin and a four-speed manual gearbox. It was produced in several body configurations including a closed berlina, a station wagon, delivery vans in both high-roof and low-roof form, a full convertible, and the style offered here, the delightful "Bianchina" Transformabile. Designed by Luigi Rapi, the compact, two-seat demi-convertible featured a sliding fabric roof that stretched over a folding metal framework and when retracted offered sporty motoring at modest speeds. With a price point, somewhat higher than the Fiat 500, it offered a higher standard of finish. Very practical in urban traffic, the Bianchina could deliver 50 mpg. Over its short lifespan, about 10,000 units were produced.
THE MOTORCAR OFFERED
This very pretty red and white example is described by the consignor as having come from a large, private collection where it last spent several years and was properly maintained and cared for during that period. The current owner believes that the 13,000-plus miles showing on this car is indicative of its original and correct mileage. The car benefits from a recent cosmetic restoration including new paint, chrome and interior. The very simple seats – not unlike a beach chair with plastic webbing - are now covered in red leather, non-original but a nice upgrade. Overall, the car is described as being in good condition.
Here is a perfect summer-time choice for relaxed open-air cruising, and one certain to be the center of attention at any Cars-and-Coffee gathering.
Saleroom notices
- Please note, the title for this vehicle is in transit.
