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…
© Lopresto Collection
© Lopresto Collection
Fiat X1/9 Spider
Chassis
#ZBB128AS0*07162697
The Fiat X1/9 Spider one-off by Bertone.
Vehicle Overview
The Fiat X1/9 Spider one-off by Bertone, crafted in 1987 at the Grugliasco workshop, stands as a distinctive piece of automotive history. This unique prototype was designed as a feasibility study for a potential spider model intended for the U.S. market. Accompanied by official Bertone documentation, this vehicle’s exceptional status is well-documented. The certificate from Bertone’s archives specifies that this vehicle (Bertone type 128AS1/K, chassis no. ZBB128AS0*07162697) features a two-door convertible body with a fabric roof and was constructed for aesthetic and technical research purposes. Mechanically, the Fiat X1/9 Spider shares its fundamentals with the seriesproduction Bertone X1/9 equipped with a catalytic converter including the Magnaflow exhaust system that enhances its performance and sound. It is powered by a 1,498 cc inline-four engine, utilizing Bosch “L-Jetronic” electronic fuel injection, which produces 75 hp—10 hp less than the twin-barrel carburetor version. The chassis remains consistent with the well-established Fiat X1/9 sports car, with no major mechanical updates. The distinguishing elements of this prototype are largely aesthetic. Originating from the American version of the X1/9, which includes a catalytic converter and is marked by the “Unleaded fuel only” label on the fuel gauge, the GT Cabrio incorporates unique design features tailored for the U.S. market. Compared to other X1/9 models, this prototype has shorter gearbox ratios, particularly in fifth gear, which affects its top speed. This one-off Fiat X1/9 Spider by Bertone is a rare gem, blending technical innovation with striking aesthetics. Its provenance and design underscore its importance in automotive history, making it a coveted piece for collectors and enthusiasts of Fiat and Bertone. The car’s distinctive features and the accompanying documentation confirm its unique place in the Fiat legacy.
Technical Specifications
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Body
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Year1987
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MakeFiat
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ModelX1/9 Spider
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CoachbuilderBertone
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Length (mm)N/A
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Width (mm)N/A
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Height (mm)N/A
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Units built1
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Engine Type4L
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MakeN/A
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ModelN/A
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Cylinder CapacityN/A
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Number Of DoorsN/A
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Six Month RateN/A
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Twelve Month RateN/A
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Date Of First RegistrationN/A
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Year Of ManufactureN/A
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CO2 EmissionsN/A
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Fuel TypeN/A
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Tax StatusN/A
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TransmissionN/A
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ColourN/A
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Type ApprovalN/A
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Wheel PlanN/A
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Revenue WeightN/A
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Tax DetailsN/A
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Mot DetailsN/A
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TaxedN/A
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motN/A
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MakeN/A
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Cylinder CapacityN/A
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RegistrationN/A
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Year Of ManufactureN/A
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CO2 MissionsN/A
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Fuel TypeN/A
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Tax StatusN/A
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ColourN/A
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Type ApprovalN/A
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Wheel PlanN/A
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Revenue WeightN/A
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DESIGNERMarcello Gandini
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