Fiat 1500 Coupé Pininfarina

The Fiat 1500 Pininfarina Coupé restyling of 1963 replaced the earlier 1200 and 1500 series coupés produced since 1959. Introduced in September 1963, it marked the second series of the Pininfarina-bodied Fiat 1500 range. The model was based on the Fiat 1500 Tipo 118 platform and retained the same general dimensions and structure as its predecessor. The exterior revision included a new full-width horizontal grille in place of the previous split design. The front bumper adopted simplified horizontal bars without vertical overriders. The bonnet profile was lowered as the engine mounting points were reduced in height. The front indicators and sidelights were repositioned within the new grille assembly. Rear light clusters and minor trim details were also modified. The overall length and width remained effectively unchanged. The interior received functional updates. The instrument cluster and switchgear layout were revised, and the ignition switch was moved to the steering column with an integrated lock. Seat design and materials were altered for improved fitment and manufacturing consistency. Luggage compartment capacity and trim panels remained as before. The restyled model used the 1,481 cc inline four-cylinder overhead-valve engine from the Fiat 1500 saloon, producing approximately 72 CV (53 kW) at 5,200 rpm. Power was transmitted through a four-speed manual gearbox to a live rear axle with leaf springs. Front suspension was independent with coil springs and wishbones. Disc brakes were fitted at the front, with drums at the rear. A five-speed gearbox and servo-assisted braking became optional from 1965. The coupé was produced by Pininfarina at Grugliasco near Turin. Estimated production from 1963 to 1967 was approximately 2,200 units, including minor variations by year. The model was presented alongside the cabriolet at the Turin Motor Show following its introduction. The 1963 Fiat 1500 Pininfarina Coupé restyling represented Fiat’s last small-series coachbuilt coupé before the transition to fully industrialized sports car production in the later 1960s.