4th May, 2025 12:00
The Bolesworth Castle May 2025 Classic, Performance & Supercar Auction
1965 Fiat 1500 Cabriolet
Charming Italian roadster penned by Pininfarina and offered with a plethora of accompanying parts
Registration – FNB 438C
Chassis No. – 026386
M.O.T. – Exempt
Odometer – 67,045KM (41,659M)
The Pininfarina designed Fiat 1500 Cabriolet is a very rare sight on UK roads. ‘FNB438C’ is a remarkable survivor and offers a superb provenance to boot. The first three keepers accounted for the first 58 years of this diminutive coupe’s life. The first owner has it imported directly from Fiat in Italy in 1965 making it UK registered from new. The first keeper kept ‘FNB438C’ until 2003, remarkably. The current vendor is listed as the fifth to date. ‘FNB438C’ is reported as having been sparing used throughout its life making its currently recorded 67,045kms an entirely feasible original reading. ‘FNB438C’ was fully resprayed in 2014 and underwent a full recommissioning in 2021 with both the aesthetics and mechanicals refreshed. Today ‘FNB438C’ is classified as an Historic Vehicle and so is zero rated for road tax and MOT exempt. This little Fiat last passed an MOT in June 2023, however.
The Fiat 1500 Cabriolet was introduced when the original 1200 version was deemed too pedestrian to be considered a sports car in the Italian tradition. The 1500cc, four cylinder, alloy headed unit was inherited from the 1500 saloon and delivered around 80 bhp. A four speed manual gearbox is fitted. During its 2021 recommissioning a replacement brake master cylinder was fitted, together with a radiator top hose. A full service was undertaken, and the underside was treated with rust inhibitor. A brand new set of Michelin tyres have also recently been fitted. The vendor rates the mechanical aspects of ‘FNB438C’ as “excellent.”
With a professional respray in 2014 the white livery looks crisp and clean. There is a moderate amount of chrome finished brightwork in evidence to include the bumpers, matrix grill, headlamp surrounds and make and model badges. The steel wheels are dressed in chromed, dome shaped Fiat hubcaps and the red fabric hood contrasts elegantly with this livery. The big rear window appears clear an uncracked. The sports orientated cabin is finished in various hues of red with the seats being more of an oxblood whilst the door cards and carpets are nearer a scarlet shade. The dashboard is an architype of 1960’s Italian charm, style and sophistication. The vendor rates the paintwork, bodywork and interior as “good.”
In summary:
- A rare and stylish Fiat cabriolet with an excellent provenance
- Subject to a 2014 respray and a 2021 recommissioning
- Reported to be an excellent runner with everything working as it should (except the radio)
'A Buyer’s Premium applies to the Hammer Price of this Lot if your bid is successful, as per the following; Motor Cars 12.5% + VAT (minimum £250 + VAT), Motorcycles and Bicycles 12.5% + VAT (minimum £250 + VAT); Registration Numbers 15% + VAT (minimum £50 + VAT); Automobilia 15% + VAT (minimum of £5 + VAT).'
Potential buyers should satisfy themselves with the description and condition of each lot prior to sale. Each vehicle is offered ‘as is/as seen’ as per the terms and conditions for the auction, buyers are asked to inspect the vehicle in person or use a professional to carry out the service. Any disputes over descriptions will not be entertained.
£12,000 - £14,000
Buyer's Premium applies (subject to a minimum charge and VAT)
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Auction: The Bolesworth Castle May 2025 Classic, Performance & Supercar Auction, 4th May, 2025
Our May auction of classic, performance and supercars
Viewing Days:
Saturday 3rd May,12 noon - 6pm
Sunday 4th May, 9am - 12 noon
If you wish to consign your vehicle to this auction, you can request a valuation here or by calling one of the Hampson Auctions team on 01606 828124
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Fill in the form below and one of our team will get in touch with a no-obligation valuation. We will also take you through the consignment and valuation process, to enable you to make an informed decision.
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