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Fiat 1100C Spider 1946. Pietro Frua's first solo creation

In the world of collecting there is data that changes everything. We would even dare to say that they are fetishes. For this reason, not infrequently a certain object multiplies its value widely due to being the first in a series. The most primitive sample of the art of a painter, an engraver or, as in this case, one of the leading Italian designers when it comes to car bodies. And is that This FIAT 1100C Spider is the first creation of Pietro Frua running his own workshops after WWII.

A whole design exercise conceived as a masterpiece that succeeded in persuading the press and fans of the possibilities of a small company born among the ruins. A tough start marked by the contest in which Pietro Frua managed to settle on his own after having worked for Stablimenti Farina. The benchmark design studio where, at just 17 years old, he began to excel with his work on the drawing boards. A promising emergence that, however, was called into question in 1938 when it thought it could establish itself independently.

Result very typical of those moments in which someone comes up too soon. Remaining relegated to the field of household appliances and toys until 1945. Crucial year in which, with the ruins of Europe still smoking after the war, was able to seize the remains of a bombed factory on the outskirts of Turin. Thus, Pietro Frua finally saw the real possibility of getting his car body business back on track. Dedicated to both private clients and companies, among which Maserati stands out.

A long and prolific career that has at FIAT 1100C Spider from 1946 as the first stone. The car with which this bodybuilder seduced the public at the Villa d'Este Contest of Elegance in 1947.

FIAT 1100C SPIDER 1946. MADE TO GIVE TALK

In the political tradition of anarchism there is a strategy known as propaganda for the sake of fact. Under this precept, one acts more than one talks, thinking that the best form of propaganda is not the word but the fact itself. Another of the common points between anarchism and primitive Christianity, demonstrating the similarities between different theories united by the ideal of a redemptive vision. However, the truth is that this same approach has been widely applied by small businesses unable to afford massive advertising campaigns.

In this way, an innovative and groundbreaking design like that of the FIAT 1100C Spider speaks for itself. Being unnecessary to attract the attention of the public since what you just made is brilliant in itself. Just what will attract the attention of the media that will serve as an indirect speaker for your cause. Idea in tune with what is done by brands like Ferrari. Another of the many that just in these days of hyperexposure to the screens have begun to advertise. Since for decades his propaganda was simply to win every possible race.

Therefore, it is clear what was the vision of Pietro Frua with his FIAT 110C Spider. Presenting himself to the world with a design that would put all the spotlight on him. A fact that he cared for to the millimeter, since chose the Villa d'Este Contest of Elegance as the venue for its premiere. Also, it didn't make it into any issue. Since 1947 was the one in which this basic appointment for high-end Italian designers returned after World War II. An automotive stratum where the level was set by the Isotta Fraschini and the Alfa Romeo 6. But which, nevertheless, here saw a simple FIAT 1100.

CAREFUL DESIGN ON A POPULAR BASIS

Designed by Dante Giacosa -master of popular Italian vehicles-, the FIAT 1100 is one of the most significant models in the motorization of the transalpine country. In addition, its appearance was much earlier than that of massive utility vehicles such as the 500 or 600 since it was launched on the market in 1937. Year in which 32 years of commercial life begin always based on the initial scheme of rear-wheel drive and four-cylinder engine. A block that with the update experienced after the world war rose to 35CV for a really not very large vehicle despite its four doors.

Characteristics that, together with its reliability and simple mechanics, made the FIAT 1100 one of the models that more and better have served as the basis for unique creations in all history. In that sense, Etceterini are constant, unique versions, sports, prototypes and even barchettas that have the 1100 as a starting point. A vast catalog where Pietro Frua's FIAT 1100C Spider represents one of the most successful style exercises of all those who used this family utility as a base.

And is not for less. Since its refined lines have a successful combination of simplicity and futurism where the aerodynamic efficiency flows fluently to achieve a model that is meticulous to the millimeter. All this also topped off with an artisan quality, which is exemplified by the good state of conservation that this FIAT 1100C Spider still enjoys. A delightful example of the stylistic change that occurred just after World War II, which changed hands for the last time as part of the Scottsdale auction held by Bonhams last 2019.

Photographs: Bonhams

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Written by Miguel Sánchez

Through the news from La Escudería, we will travel the winding roads of Maranello listening to the roar of the Italian V12; We will travel Route66 in search of the power of the great American engines; we will get lost in the narrow English lanes tracking the elegance of their sports cars; We will speed up the braking in the curves of the Monte Carlo Rally and we will even get dusty in a garage while rescuing lost jewels.

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