Fiat 1100 TV Spider Allemano

The Fiat 1100 TV Spider Allemano represents a focused application of mid-1950s Italian coachbuilding principles on the Fiat 1100 TV mechanical platform. The chassis uses a steel monocoque structure from the 1100 Turismo Veloce variant, paired with independent front suspension with coil springs and wishbones, a live rear axle with semi-elliptic leaf springs, and hydraulic drum brakes on all four wheels. Power comes from Fiat’s 1.1-liter inline-four engine, fitted with a higher-compression cylinder head and performance-oriented carburetion for the TV specification. Output is routed through a four-speed manual gearbox with floor shift, giving the Spider responsive acceleration and a usable cruising range for period touring. Carrozzeria Allemano supplied the bodywork, executing Giovanni Michelotti’s design in hand-formed steel with aluminum components used where weight savings were required. The exterior features a low beltline, tapered rear section, and pronounced front wings. Distinctive elements include the recessed headlamp treatment, wraparound windshield, and the chrome side spear that appears on several documented examples. The same body style was offered on Maserati A6 chassis, confirming its adaptability across different performance segments. Production records remain incomplete. Known cars include a red vehicle in the Netherlands, a blue car in Italy, a bright metallic blue example in Switzerland, and a red car in Germany originally delivered in two-tone white and bright green. A period photograph of a white and grey Spider with identical side trim indicates further variation within the limited production batch. These surviving cars share the same fundamental mechanical base yet display individual coachbuilt differences in trim execution, panel shaping, and interior detailing. The interior layout follows standard mid-1950s Italian sports-car practice. Key features include a three-spoke steering wheel, central instrument cluster with Jaeger or Veglia gauges depending on the build, low-mounted bucket seats, and aluminum-faced switchgear arranged across a narrow dashboard. The lightweight body paired with the 1100 TV mechanical set delivers a nimble driving character supported by predictable suspension geometry and a balanced weight distribution.