1961 Autobianchi Bianchina
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Year of manufacture1961
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Car typeOther
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Lot number062
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DriveLHD
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ConditionUsed
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Location
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Exterior colourOther
Description
Charming and delightfully Italian, the Bianchina Trasformabile was the first offering from the postwar alliance that merged historic Italian cycle maker Bianchi with partners Fiat and Pirelli. Beginning with the Fiat 500 platform and utilizing Pirelli tires, Bianchi assembled the Luigi Rapi-designed Bianchina, resulting in a fashionable and smart car primarily aimed at affluent European customers. The agile microcars were fuel-efficient, sporty, and versatile. As many as 10,000 units were sold throughout Europe; only about 200 examples were imported to America, including the example offered here.
Bursting with an abundance of cosmopolitan character, this particular Trasformabile is splendidly presented in a brilliant two-tone exterior with fine finishes throughout. Detailed work performed during a bare-metal restoration included a new floor pan sourced from Italy, while bodywork and exterior trim were finished to a high standard. All lenses, glass, and emblems were removed and refinished or replaced as needed. A new interior was properly prepared using factory patterns and high-quality materials, reflecting the original uprated trim. Furthering the restoration, proper mechanical components were used whenever possible, according to the consignor, including accurate materials and finishes in the engine compartment and undercarriage.
This beautifully restored Trasformabile, which, as a Special, boasts an additional 3 hp, is an excellent example of one of the most attractive microcars ever built.