The story of Bertone: the Most Controversial Coachbuilder Ever
The beginning of Bertone Bertone was founded in November 1912, when Giovanni Bertone, then aged 28, opened a workshop specialising in the construction and…
Fiat 508 C Balilla Cabriolet Bertone
The Fiat 508 C Balilla Cabriolet Bertone.
Vehicle Overview
The Fiat 508 C Balilla Cabriolet Bertone, introduced in 1937, was a stylish and sporty interpretation of Fiat’s popular 508C model, also known as the Balilla 1100. The 508C was a well-loved car in Italy, enjoying widespread popularity for over 15 years due to its robust engineering and versatile design. The Balilla’s original 995 cc overhead-valve engine was upgraded to a 1,089 cc unit, with a bore and stroke of 68×75 mm. This enhancement increased the engine’s output to 32 hp at 4,000 rpm, providing improved performance. Among the notable technical advancements were the introduction of independent front suspension and an extended wheelbase, which grew from 2,300 mm to 2,420 mm. These updates enhanced both the ride quality and interior space, making the Balilla more comfortable and practical. Carrozzieri, or coachbuilders, saw great potential in the 1100 chassis, leading to a proliferation of custom cabriolets based on the platform. Bertone, one of Italy’s most innovative coachbuilders, created a unique two-seater cabriolet that deviated from the stylistic trends of Fiat’s standard saloon. The result was a car with sleek lines and sporting characteristics, combining elegance with a dynamic edge. Weighing just over 900 kg, the Fiat 508 C Balilla Cabriolet Bertone had a top speed of 71 km/h in its standard configuration. However, tuners of the time offered numerous modifications, boosting power output to 42 hp and allowing the car to achieve speeds of up to 130 km/h. This flexibility made the car particularly appealing to drivers seeking both style and performance. The Fiat 508 C Balilla Cabriolet Bertone remains a significant piece of automotive history, symbolizing the creativity and craftsmanship of Italian coachbuilders during the pre-war era. It showcased Bertone’s ability to transform a practical, mass-produced chassis into an elegant and distinctive cabriolet, paving the way for the company’s future as a leader in bespoke automotive design.
Technical Specifications
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Year1938
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MakeFiat
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Model508 Balilla Cabriolet
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CoachbuilderBertone
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