1962 Fiat Osca Pinninfarina Convertible
November 1958 Fiat shows a new version of their very pretty Pinninfarina designed and built convertible but this car has a new motor, The Fiat Osca 1500 GT. Fiat has been building the 1100 then 1200 Cabriolet since 1955. But they needed a more powerful engine for the car to be considered a sports car and to compete with Alfa Romeo's Giulia.
The relationship benefits both parties, Fiat gets a new 100 hp twin cam and OSCA gets the manufacturing facilities of Fiat. 3,089 examples were built in both coupe and convertible configuration. Built by Pininfarina besides the 250 GTE Ferraris. Notice the resemblance. Allot of interchangeable trim parts with PF cars of the era.
Early cars were drums brake all around, fronts had twin brake cylinders. Other changes include an 8,000 rpm tach, 15" 5 lug wheels, Nardi Steering wheel, passenger foot support and center grab bar, and larger hood scoop. Fiat badged 118S model designation.
This car came out of Washington state. It was raced early in its life by Ed Mantz, he bought the bought the car in 1974 from D. Donnie. The Car has extensive service records all through 70's, 80's, 90's.. and early 2000's. At sometime in its life engine was changed. It has period correct 118 engine, but not the number on the vin tag. The car Stayed in the Mantz family with their son Scott until 2009. At that time it was purchased by a good friend of mine who restored the car back to its original spec. New correct original color paint, new chrome, new interior, new correct carpets, new rubber mats, and he went through the car mechanically. Brakes were done, and engine was checked out. Compression good. I got the car from in 2016.. since getting the car I detailed engine bay, bought and installed new European rear lenses, New Cibie H4 Headlights, new mechanical and electric fuel pump, new battery.. I just replaced the coil with New Ducelliar, new points, plugs and condenser. Runs and drives very well. speedo whines will need a new cable.
Ready to show and enjoy.