Zanussi Fontebasso Sport

The Zanussi Fontebasso Sport was a limited-production Italian barchetta constructed in 1948. It was based on a modified Fiat 500B chassis and developed by Fioravante Zanussi in collaboration with Antonio Fontebasso. The bodywork was executed by Carrozzeria Vendrame of Mareno di Piave. Built for competition purposes, the model reflects the postwar Italian trend of adapting mass-market mechanical platforms into bespoke lightweight racing machines. The chassis originated from the Fiat 500B “Topolino,” reinforced to accommodate higher-performance mechanical components. The original powerplant was a Siata-modified version of the 569 cc inline-four engine, fitted with an aluminum performance cylinder head and twin carburetors. Initial output was estimated at 30 to 35 horsepower. The engine was later replaced by a Lancia Ardea unit of 750 cc displacement, producing approximately 50 horsepower at 5,000 rpm. Power was transmitted to the rear wheels via a four-speed manual gearbox. Suspension comprised independent front transverse leaf springs and a rear live axle with semi-elliptic springs. Drum brakes were mounted at all four wheels. The body was constructed in hand-formed aluminum over a tubular substructure. The coachwork featured open cycle wings, a cut-down windscreen, external fuel filler, and a tapering rear section in the barchetta style. The overall weight was approximately 480 kilograms. The design prioritized low frontal area and minimal mechanical resistance, consistent with contemporary sports car practice. Three examples were originally constructed. Of these, only one is known to survive. This vehicle, bearing chassis number 5500748, retains documented provenance and racing history. It was originally owned and raced by Antonio Fontebasso and co-driver Diego Zanotto and was completed with support from Zanussi’s technical operations. The car competed in the 1949 and 1950 editions of the Coppa d’Oro delle Dolomiti. In later decades, it was certified for participation in Mille Miglia retrospective events. It is currently held in private ownership, with supporting documentation from FIA and ASI archives. The Zanussi Fontebasso Sport represents a rare surviving example of early postwar Italian small-displacement racing construction. Its singular preservation, combined with verifiable period competition activity, places it within the broader context of artisanal motorsport production in the 750 cc class.