The ultimate italian coachbuilder site
The ultimate italian coachbuilder site
Bertone occasionally busied himself with the conversion of standard production cars. This version of the Fiat “1100/103E” was called “Smart”
The Fiat 1100-103 Smart represents a distinctive chapter in the history of automotive customization, reflecting the innovative spirit of the golden era of coachbuilding. Created by the renowned Carrozzeria Bertone, this “elaborata” version of the standard Fiat 1100/103E showcases the flair and craftsmanship that Bertone was celebrated for. The designation “Smart” aligns with Bertone’s tradition of naming its bespoke, elaborately modified vehicles with a touch of sophistication. Just as the Fiat 600 Smart was an example of this practice, the 1100-103 Smart embodies the same spirit of refinement and enhancement. The base vehicle, the Fiat 1100/103E, provided a solid and dependable chassis, which Bertone transformed into a more luxurious and visually striking automobile. Design-wise, the 1100-103 Smart retained the fundamental shape of the original body but was enhanced with several distinctive features. Chrome elements were meticulously added to highlight the vehicle’s elegance, while a new front grille, incorporating a central foglight, gave it a more prominent and refined appearance. The car’s stance was further improved by the addition of new tires, often white-walled, which complemented its upscale character. The two-tone paintjob was another standout feature of the Fiat 1100-103 Smart. This finish not only enhanced the vehicle’s visual appeal but also underscored its bespoke nature. Each car was painted in a carefully selected combination of colors that emphasized its sleek lines and bespoke modifications. The hood emblem served as a subtle but elegant detail, reinforcing the vehicle’s unique status. Inside, the 1100-103 Smart continued the theme of luxury with a more opulent interior. The upgraded cabin featured higher-quality materials and finishes, offering a more refined driving experience compared to the standard model. This attention to detail reflected Bertone’s commitment to elevating the everyday automobile into something truly special. In essence, the Fiat 1100-103 Smart by Carrozzeria Bertone exemplifies the golden age of coachbuilding, where standard production cars were transformed into bespoke masterpieces through expert craftsmanship and innovative design.
An elegant convertible, built in 1949 on the popular Fiat 1100 B chassis by Stabilimenti Farina in very few speciments, remains the emblem of this extraordinary coachbuilding of cars in the early 1950s. The resemblance to Ferrari’s 166 Inter is surprising, which let to controversy between Giovanni Farina and Enzo Ferrari.
