Vendor supplied images
Highlights
- Very early 1968 Fiat 124 Sport Spider
- Original "black plate car" from California
- Comprehensive electrical restoration
- Recent renewals including soft top and sports rims
The Appeal
One of Tom Tjaarda's most brilliant designs is undeniably the Fiat 124. With its attractive styling and spirited character, this car brought the fight to Triumph and MG, who had practically monopolised the sports car market. Dependent on who you ask, the 124 was the victor. Certainly, it offered more in the way of interior space and a certain level of Italian Exoticism for the American enthusiast.
That was what aided the Sport Spider's endurance. So popular in the USA it was that the car stayed on the market all the way up until 1985. The later cars are much less desirable, mind. Carrying big rubber bumpers and diminished performance, the newer Sports Spiders aren't on many folks' wishlists.
Which is why this very early example is bound to get plenty of attention. With the original chrome bumpers and mechanical spec, it's a highly desirable prospect - and comes straight from the dry state of California, which is also where it picked up its lovely American 'Black Plates'.
That was what aided the Sport Spider's endurance. So popular in the USA it was that the car stayed on the market all the way up until 1985. The later cars are much less desirable, mind. Carrying big rubber bumpers and diminished performance, the newer Sports Spiders aren't on many folks' wishlists.
Which is why this very early example is bound to get plenty of attention. With the original chrome bumpers and mechanical spec, it's a highly desirable prospect - and comes straight from the dry state of California, which is also where it picked up its lovely American 'Black Plates'.
History and Paperwork
- Built in 1968
- Still carrying American registration
- Currently indicates 44,954 miles on a five-figure odometer
- Complete with original handbook
- The vendor reports the car is accompanied by plenty of invoices
The Condition
- Bodywork presents well with some visible traces of use and age
- Paintwork has been repainted once
- It's still in good overall order, with the odd bubble, scratch or mark
- All badges and branding present and correct
- Some light patina to the brightwork
- Sports rims with tyres recently renewed
- Soft top recently renewed
- Supplied with hard top
- Interior is is in good overall order
- Some scuffs and marks to the wood fascia
- All instruments clear, with some patina to their surrounds
- Seats free of any significant rips or tears
- Carpets look a little tired
The Mechanics
- 1.6L I4 powerplant
- Manual transmission with 5 gears
- Engine bay in excellent order with minimal sign of wear
- Recent work includes:
- Renewal of fuel pump
- Overhaul of wiper motor
- Replacement of the direct lever unit
- Wiring harness and all electrical components restored
- We've no reports of any mechanical issues
- The car is reportedly driving exactly as it should with no issues
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 of this vehicle is registered as a business seller. And you are covered by Car & Classic’s 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.
✓ VAT is included in the buyer's deposit. VAT may or may not be included in the final bid or offer price, as specified in the listing.
✓ We want a smooth transaction just as much as you do and as such we run all UK-registered cars and motorbikes for sale on Car & Classic through an online HPI check to verify that they show no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and have no finance owing, allowing you to bid with confidence.
✓ We also check whether vehicles are recorded as being written off as part of an insurance total loss claim at the time an advert is placed and we helpfully provide write-off category labels (Cat C/D/S/N) for your assistance, the presence or absence of a label does not guarantee the vehicle’s status and it's always worthwhile carrying out your own full vehicle history check before making an offer.
✓ Buyers are responsible for vehicle collection
or delivery. Importing vehicles may result in additional customs duties and import taxes so it's worth checking beforehand. If requested we may refer you to a third-party shipping company who can help. For more details and to speak to the team, email [email protected]