Fiat 1400 B Coupé Frua

Vehicle Overview

The Fiat 1400 Frua Coupé, revealed at the 1952 Turin Auto Salon, is a masterclass in Italian automotive design and ingenuity. This one-of-a-kind creation, crafted by the renowned Pietro Frua, took the standard Fiat 1400 sedan and elevated it to a level of elegance and sophistication rarely seen in mass-produced cars. Designed as a unique two-door, six-seater coupe, the 1400 Frua Coupé stood as a striking example of what could be achieved through bespoke coachbuilding, showcasing Frua’s signature blend of refinement and practicality. Built on the sturdy Fiat 1400 chassis, the car’s standout feature was its sleek, aluminum body—a rarity at the time. The smooth curves and clean lines were characteristic of Frua’s design philosophy, making the car appear both modern and timeless. While it retained the practicality of a four-door sedan, the design was cleverly modified to incorporate a coupe-like silhouette that enhanced its aesthetic appeal while still offering ample space for passengers. The result was a strikingly elegant yet functional vehicle that stood apart from the crowd of post-war automobiles. Though it’s unclear whether any other examples of the Fiat 1400 Frua Coupé were ever produced, this singular model has cemented its place as a coveted piece of automotive history. The car’s unveiling at the 1952 Turin Motor Show was an event in itself, demonstrating the incredible skill and vision of Pietro Frua. With its perfect balance of luxury, practicality, and innovative design, the Fiat 1400 Frua Coupé remains an enduring symbol of the golden age of coachbuilding, admired for both its rarity and the creative genius behind it.