Description
Although FIAT would shift its focus away from motor racing in the early 1930s to expand its road car lineup, in the late 1920s, the Milanese manufacturer was still very much in the business of producing sporting cars for its passionate customers. The most successful design of the decade was the Tipo 509, a model that dominated the small-car market in Italy. Alongside the standard 509, FIAT introduced a trio of sporting roadsters: the 514 S, 514 MM, and 514 CA—'MM' standing for Mille Miglia and 'CA' for Coppa del Alpi (Alpine Cup). The 514 S and 514 CA were built on the standard 2, 555mm wheelbase, while the 514 MM used a longer 2, 770mm frame, shared with the 514 van, allowing for more spacious coachwork. All three featured engines tuned for greater performance, with the 514 S delivering 34. 5bhp, and the MM and CA both offering 37bhp. These more powerful variants could reach top speeds around 112km/ h.
Our Tipo 514 Coppa del Alpi was officially registered for the first time on June 23, 1931. However, this road registration was not purely to provide cosy Sunday rides. Very soon after its first entry, this car already won the 1931 edition of the Coppa Del Alpine, if that is not worth its name.
The first owners of this car were none other than the Leanza family—Filippo Leanza, a prominent figure connected to the Veteran Car Club Etneo and known as the 'savior' of many classic cars from the scrap yard, alongside Michele Leanza, who played a key role in founding the brand itself. In addition to these highly respected first owners, the car eventually found its way into the hands of Mario Righini, the owner of the renowned Righini Auto Museum. With his impeccable taste for fine automobiles, it’s no surprise that Mario couldn’t resist adding this remarkable piece of history to his collection.
In recent years, this car has become a loved and familiar sight at the Mille Miglia, with an impressive 15 participations between 2001 and 2024. Its starting number consistently falls between 60 and 75—an early, highly coveted range that offers a unique driving experience, setting it apart from the later numbers and adding an extra layer of excitement to the journey through the historic race in an open, pre-war sports car.
However, the car’s driving adventures weren’t limited to just the Mille Miglia. It also returned to its roots in the 2022 edition of the Coppa delle Alpi and took part in the prestigious Gran Premio Nuvolari in both 2023 and 2024
Today, this car is in outstanding mechanical and aesthetic condition. Recently, a total of 360 hours of work were invested to ensure it was fully prepared for upcoming events. The results are immediately noticeable as soon as you press the start button on the floor. The engine fires up effortlessly and runs like a dream. This is a car you can confidently take on long drives, with its suspension and steering perfectly tuned. You’d hardly believe this car is 93 years old!
The car is offered with inclusion in the Registro 1000 Miglia, an Italian Carta di Circolazione, and all the necessary Mille Miglia and FIA/ ACI paperwork, making it an exceptional opportunity for any motorsport enthusiast.
