Manufactured in Italy and sold through Simca in Paris,this 1961 Fiat-OSCA arrived in California some years later. It resurfaced, 40 years on, neglected, unregistered since the early 1970s, and in need of some tender loving care. It has since experienced a meticulous ground-up, nut-and-bolt restoration by Swan Restorations, completed in July 2015. With perfection and attention to detail in mind, this show-worthy example is ready for the concours circuit; yet, with smooth steering and handling, comfortable vinyl seats, and a spacious trunk for your weekend getaway, this charming Italian Spider is meant for driving.

The Fiat-OSCA 1500S Spider was stylish and powerful, a significant step up from the standard 1500 model, due mainly to the Maserati brothers’ OSCA performance engine under its hood. The engine was an adaptation of their twin-cam 1500 racing engine and was built only for this model. The rods, pistons, and crank were forged pieces rather than standard Fiat cast items. This specialized engine gave the 1500S a top speed of 105 mph to complement the Pinin Farina-styled body.

Fiat made calculated decisions when it entered into partnership with the Maserati brothers and Pinin Farina, and this car’s exacting restoration honors and exemplifies their work.