The story of Ghia – part 1
The beginning In tracing the genealogy of coachbuilding firms, it turns out that they originated in the early years of the last century as…
Fiat 1500 Cabriolet Ghia
Chassis
#16755
The FIAT 1500 was an all-new design that was first shown to the public at the Milan Motor Show in November 1935. Automotive engineers had begun to pay greater attention to aerodynamic considerations and the 1500 was an outstanding example of this newly acquired knowledge applied to passenger car design. Developed in a wind tunnel, the 1500’s striking-looking body featured a raked back radiator grille intended to reduce aerodynamic drag, though this would be replaced by a more conventional, upright grille in 1940, no doubt at the dictates of fashion.
Vehicle Overview
FIAT offered open models as well as the standard saloon, and the 1500 chassis was popular with independent coachbuilders, this one features a convertible coachwork by Carrozzeria Ghia of Turin. Carrozzeria Ghia had been founded by Giacinto Ghia in 1919, soon establishing a reputation not just for luxury coachwork but also for bodying competition cars. Despite its founder’s death in 1944 and wartime damage to the factory, Ghia resumed its place at the forefront of Italian coachbuilding after WW2, providing the training ground for many of Italy’s rising-star designers: Michelotti, Boano, Frua and Savonuzzi all making a contribution to its continuing success. Chassis number ‘16755’ was brought to South Africa in 1946 by the Italian Consul General, who had purchased it new in 1937. Around 1964 the car passed to one Theo Weyers and during his ownership was converted from left- to right-hand drive.
Technical Specifications
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Body
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Year1937
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MakeFiat
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Model1500 Cabriolet
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CoachbuilderGhia
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DESIGNERMario Revelli di Beaumont
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