1962 Fiat 1200 Spider "Vetture Speciali" with rare Hard Top

The 1962 Fiat VT (“Vetture Speciali”-Special Cars) called the1200 Spiderin export markets has amazing similarities to Ferrari's 250 GT PF Cabriolet of the same. Available at a fraction of the cost, the popularity of the 1200 Spider skyrocketed with sports car enthusiasts

Powering the 1200 Cabriolet was an overhead-valve 1,221 cc four-cylinder engine that sported a 72 x 75 mm bore and stroke, 8.25:1 compression and a two-barrel Weber 36 DCD downdraft carburetor; in this form, it made 55 hp at 5,300 RPM and 60-lbs.ft. of torque at 3,000 RPM, enough to push the 2,030-pound car close to 90 MPH.

The 1200 Cabriolet was replaced in 1963 and by the 1500 Cabriolet; in 1968, the 124 Spider would take up the mantle of Fiat's traditional two-seat convertible.

This two-seater, internally considered Series 143,featured a unit body that was designed and built by the artisans at Pininfarina; the "Vetture Speciali" (Special Cars) badges on the 1961 example indicate this car's hand-built nature and special bright work trim. Floor-shifter for the four-speed manual, roll-up door windows and a folding soft top that disappeared into a devoted well behind the seats for a smooth appearance. A very rare Hardtop comes with the car. The practical and commodious trunk hid the spare tire and tool kit.

With a very Ferrari looking Pininfarina body this Fiat model were certainly memorable little sports cars. The car featured here is in the Ft. Lauderdale. Florida region and has been loved and cared for. Certainly, well preserved, it has nevertheless received a “thorough mechanical and cosmetic refurbishment” to leave it looking pretty much as new. The engine was tuned up and the outside everything has been refinished or reconditioned. Finished in copper over beige interior, it looks stunning.

Certain to increase in value in a fast appreciating European sports-car market, this special Fiat Spider represents a sound financial investment while providing classic Pininfarina styling and Italian panache and performance.