Description
Highlights:
– 998 cc four-cylinder petrol engine, rear-mounted, manual transmission
– Rare Italian glass-fibre bodied cabriolet, limited production of around 500 cars
– Two-tone red and cream paintwork with tan interior
– Photographs of the engine overhaul, including cylinder head and carburettor, available
The private seller offers for sale this 1965 Autobianchi Stellina, powered by a 998 cc four-cylinder petrol engine, paired with a manual transmission. The Stellina is one of the most charming small Italian cabriolets of the 1960s, a rare and instantly recognisable machine that was built in very small numbers. According to the seller, only 504 were made, and the model is regarded as the forerunner of the Fiat 850 Spider.
Introduced in the early 1960s, the Stellina, Italian for “little star”, was built by Autobianchi, the joint venture between Fiat, Pirelli and Bianchi. It used the mechanical components of the Fiat 600 under a glass-fibre body styled by Luigi Rapi and made by Vincenzo Garavini in Turin, which was a pioneering choice of material for a series production car at the time. With the engine at the rear, a low windscreen and compact proportions, it was a stylish, lightweight open two-seater aimed at sunny-weather motoring rather than outright performance.
This example is finished in a handsome combination of red and cream, with chrome bumpers, a gold Autobianchi script on the bonnet and “Stellina 800” lettering on the rear deck. The cabin is trimmed in tan, with a slim steering wheel and a simple dashboard. The seller has supplied a series of photographs of the engine being worked on, showing the cylinder head, valve gear, carburettor and starter motor, which give an insight into the mechanical attention the car has received.
For collectors, the Stellina offers a rare and distinctive entry into Italian coachbuilt-style motoring from the early 1960s. Its small production run and distinctive glass-fibre body make it a car that is seldom seen at classic events, and it is sure to attract attention wherever it appears.
Condition of the bodywork & paint
4 — Very Good. Clean with minimal wear; might need minor replacements for small missing or broken parts.
Condition of the interior
3 — Good. Bodywork or mechanical repairs needed; drives.
Technical condition
4 — Very Good. Mechanically solid, with potential for minor servicing.
Overall condition
4 — Very Good. Displays only minimal wear and can hit the road any time.
This item is sold on an as-is basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and descriptions of the listing are for information purposes only.
