***Vendor supplied images***

Highlights

Restored in 2021
Repainted in the original colors
Older plates
Upholstery refurbished with period-correct materials
Carefully and lovingly maintained
A mostly original and fully functional Balilla

The Appeal

This attractive Fiat Balilla is presented in very original conditions and has received great care throughout its life, in the hands of just three devoted owners.

It retains a pleasant vintage patina, despite having undergone a rigorous conservative restoration in 2021, as evidenced by the rich photographic documentation that will be handed to the buyer, which included the complete disassembly of the bodywork, repainted in the original colours, the replacement of the internal upholstery with period correct materials and the refurbishment of the electrical system.

Launched in 1932 and built in the newborn Lingotto plant, the Fiat Balilla 508 was a vehicle of great importance for the Italian market, as it offered good level of performance, a comfortable and well-finished passenger compartment and a pleasant and elegant line at a far more affordable price than any other car on the market.

Considered the first Italian compact car, the Balilla was immediately loved by the public and more than one hundred thousand units were produced for the first two series.

The Balilla was equipped with a 995 cm³ four-cylinder side-valve engine with 20 HP , coupled to a three-speed gearbox, which was replaced with a four-speed starting from 1934 on the more aerodynamic Balilla 508B with 24 HP.

Even after almost a century, the Balilla has remained in the hearts of Italian motorists for its legendary reliability, for its pleasant line and for its lively and fun ride, thanks to its very low weight.

This scrupulously preserved example is accompanied by extensive documentation including its original registration documents, an original spare parts catalogue and a Certificate of Origin issued by Fiat Classiche.

The perfectly restored cabin and the efficient mechanics allow us to fully enjoy the pleasant driving experience of the Balilla, full of forgotten sounds, smells and sensations.

With the windscreen slightly open to cool the passenger compartment and comfortably seated on the elegant seats, it's easy to feel transported back in time while enjoying pleasant and fun outings that will bring a smile to those who have the pleasure of seeing it passing by.

The odometer was reset during the restoration.

Equipped with new battery and tyres, this Balilla is ready to go and requires no further work.

The History and Paperwork

Built in November 1935
Frame number: 508-087829
Just three owners from new
Older plates
Original registration
Property certificate
Certificate of Origin issued by Fiat Classiche.
Original spare parts catalogue
The car will be MOTd before delivery if so requested

This Fiat Balilla comes with a complete documentation, including the updated Property certificate and “Libretto di circolazione” registration documents issued in 1955 together with the new license plates, a Certificate of Origin issued by Fiat Classiche and an interesting original spare parts catalogue.

After a complete restoration in 2020-2021, the car has been rarely used but driven as much as necessary to keep it in good shape, and is in perfect working order.

For this reason it has not sustained its latest MOT inspection, which will be carried out by the seller if so requested by the buyer.

The Interior

Recently restored cabin
Seats, door cards and headliner reupholstered with original materials
Preserved dashboard
Original three-spoke steering wheel in excellent condition
Swivel-opening windscreen
Chrome-plated details and finishes in excellent condition

The Exterior

Two-door sedan bodywork
Restored in 2021
Disassembled and repainted in the original colours
Original wheel covers in perfect condition
Original restored spare wheel cover
Working trafficators
New roof pegamoid and aluminium trim
Restored brightwork
Headlights, taillights, indicators and windows in excellent condition
Rubber running boards' covers with aluminium profiles

The Mechanics

995cc side-valve straight-four 24hp engine
Four speed gearbox
Four wheel brakes
New electrical system
New battery
New tyres
Always maintained with the utmost care

Summary

A great protagonist in the history of the automobile, the Fiat Balilla was the first car for many Italians and the first vehicle ever seen in many small rural towns.

Elegant and with pleasantly modern lines, inspired by contemporary Ford models, the Balilla was offered at a relatively accessible price and allowed its drivers to undertake long journeys on bumpy roads, thanks to its good performances, its low fuel consumption, its safe road holding and its proverbial reliability.

Always admired and the center of attention at enthusiasts' rallies, the Balilla is an excellent choice for the competent amateur in love with vintage cars, who will be able to appreciate its historical importance and its easy and straightforward maintenance.

This Balilla is in excellent general condition, having received a competent and thorough restoration which has preserved its original aesthetics and great charm, while refreshing its brilliance and reliability and is accompanied by a rich and interesting documentation, making it particularly attractive for the most discerning collectors.

BEFORE YOU BUY

This sale is subject to the Car & Classic Terms and Conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following:

✓ The seller is registered as a private seller which means consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not come into effect. However, you are still covered by Car & Classic’s own Terms and Conditions..

✓ We request that a non-refundable fee be paid if you are the lucky winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted Please refer to our helpful FAQs and T&Cs for specific rates.

✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is Where Is’ basis and without warranty. Photos and descriptions are solely for guidance purposes and it's customary to carry out a full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase for your own peace of mind.

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