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The Fiat 1100 Cabriolet Stabilimenti Farina designed by Michelotti.
The Fiat 1100 Cabriolet Farina emerged during the post-World War II period, characterized by a challenging landscape for many Italians. Despite the severe damage inflicted upon Turin’s industrial sector by Allied bombings, it swiftly rebounded, heralding a renaissance in the automobile industry. This era saw the debut of iconic vehicles from esteemed coachbuilders, with Cisitalia making its mark, Pininfarina gaining global recognition, and Stabilimenti Farina crafting some of their most remarkable designs for Alfa Romeo, Lancia, and Fiat. Among these esteemed creations was the Fiat 1100 Cabriolet Farina, a luxurious coachwork variant based on the modest Fiat 1100B mechanics, built by Stabilimenti Farina and designed by Giovanni Michelotti. This exquisite model garnered acclaim by winning the prestigious Villa d’Este Concours d’Elegance in 1947 and the Concorso d’Elegante di Torino. Two years later, Stabilimenti Farina unveiled a limited series of aluminum-bodied cabriolets, employing the renowned “superleggera” technique pioneered by Touring. In 1949, Ferrari introduced its inaugural mass-produced road car, the 166 Inter, at the Paris Motor Show. Notably, these vehicles were clothed by esteemed coachbuilders of the era, including Stabilimenti Farina. One such example, No. 011S, was commissioned by the filmmaker Roberto Rossellini. However, the striking resemblance between the 166 Inter and the Fiat 1100 prompted Enzo Ferrari to accuse Farina of imitation. Legend suggests that in response, Ferrari sought out Bertone to create his cabriolet. While undeniable similarities exist, it’s crucial to acknowledge the significant differences in performance. The Ferrari boasted a robust 1995cc V12 engine producing 110 horsepower, a stark contrast to the Fiat’s modest 50 horsepower output. Despite resemblances to other contemporaneous models like the Simca 8 1200 Sport Cabriolet, Ferrari’s complaints appeared to be selective. Today, only three examples of the 166 Inter cabriolets by Stabilimenti Farina have survived.
The Tank Style cars from Stabilimenti Farina defied automotive norms with their low-slung profiles, signaling a departure in design during the post-war era. Originally intended as a unique cabriolet masterpiece, the Tank-Style concept surprised many by evolving beyond a solitary creation. The subsequent coupé, distinguished by its low roofline and covered wheel arches, presented an avant-garde vision akin to a floating monolith.
In the late 1800s, the Farina family, hailing from Cortanze d’Asti, embarked on a journey that would reshape the automotive landscape in Turin. Their story is one of passion, innovation, and resilience—a narrative that laid the foundation for the renowned Società Anonima Stabilimenti Industriali Giovanni Farina.
