Moretti 600 Spider

Vehicle Overview

The Moretti 600 Spider, introduced in 1949, was a standout example of Italian automotive design from the post-war era. Based on the Fiat 600, the Moretti 600 Spider offered a more stylish, sporty alternative to the standard saloon. While the Fiat 600 itself was a compact and affordable family car that gained widespread popularity in Italy, the Moretti 600 Spider took the base model to a whole new level of elegance and performance, thanks in large part to the work of renowned designer Giovanni Michelotti. The Moretti Spider retained the Fiat 600’s basic layout, featuring a front-mounted 592cc water-cooled four-cylinder engine powering the rear wheels. However, Moretti’s version was equipped with a 750cc engine, offering a bit more power and performance. The car’s light weight—just 510 kg—combined with its sporty engine made it an agile and fun-to-drive roadster. The chassis was constructed from square-section steel tubing, providing a solid foundation for the car’s design. The wheelbase was extended to 2000mm, allowing for better handling and a more comfortable ride compared to the standard Fiat 600. What truly set the Moretti 600 Spider apart, however, was its design. The elegant, open-top bodywork was sleek and stylish, emphasizing the dynamic lines and sporty feel that were characteristic of Italian roadsters in the late 1940s. It was available as a two-seater coupe or the more popular two-seater Spider, with the latter being the most sought-after by enthusiasts. In 1950, the 600 Spider earned acclaim by winning the prestigious Coppa d’Oro at the Concorso d’Eleganza di Stresa, a testament to its stylish design and craftsmanship. The Moretti 600 Spider remains an iconic model, representing the era of Italian automotive artistry and the spirit of post-war design. It is remembered as a true classic, offering a blend of beauty, performance, and exclusivity that continues to captivate collectors today.