THE VEHICLE AT A GLANCE
Model dossier
- Production period
- 1964
- Body style
- Spider
- Engine
- Inline-4
- Type
- Limited
- Production
- 1000
- Top speed
- 125 km/h
THE PEOPLE BEHIND THE CAR
Coachbuilding, design & conversions
PRICE & SALES RECORD
Vehicle value
- Original price
- Not documented
- Latest recorded sale
- Not documented
01 / THE STORY
History & context
The Fiat 850 Spider Vignale, a creation of Virginio Vario, who succeeded Giovanni Michelotti as chief designer at Vignale, earned the affectionate nickname “Vignalina.” It represented a significant evolution from its predecessor, as it replaced the mechanics of the 600 D. This stylish vehicle was offered in three distinct body styles: a 2-door sedan (built in only 4000 specimens, check this one which is for Sale!), coupé (built in 5000 specimens), and this spider (built in 1000 specimens), showcasing the versatility of its design. The bodies were built by L.I.T.L.A. in Moncalieri/TO. Vignale demonstrated its prowess by producing a range of cars based on the 850 floorpan and mechanicals, each tailored to different preferences and lifestyles. Among these variations were a 4/5-seat berlina, a 2+2 coupé, and a 2+2 spider, catering to a diverse array of drivers. Despite their differences, all three iterations shared the standard 850 wheelbase, ensuring consistent performance and handling characteristics across the lineup. Inside, a luxurious faux leather interior greeted occupants, complemented by thoughtful features such as ‘door-open’ lights mounted on the doors and a central tunnel equipped with a convenient ‘loose-object’ tray and cigarette holder. For those seeking an extra touch of refinement, the ‘Lusso Export’ specification elevated the driving experience to new heights. This upscale package included desirable amenities like a cigarette lighter, metallic paint options, electric windows for added convenience, and a wooden steering wheel for a touch of elegance. Additionally, chromed gearchange and handbrake levers added a premium aesthetic, while an electronic rev counter provided precise performance monitoring. The Fiat 850 Spider Vignale lineup epitomized Italian automotive craftsmanship, blending style, functionality, and luxury in equal measure. Whether cruising through city streets or embarking on scenic road trips, these vehicles offered a driving experience that was as enjoyable as it was refined. With its range of body styles and optional enhancements, the 850 Spider Vignale appealed to drivers with varying tastes and preferences, solidifying its place as a standout model in Fiat’s storied history.
Historical research note
The contemporary article states that the Vignale Fiat 850 Spider was priced at 935,000 lire, the same price as the Berlina and Coupé.
Source: period Italian magazine · SRC-VIGNALE850-CONTEMP-ARTICLE-PP21-22 · page 22 price paragraph · Historical information awaiting independent verification.
02 / TECHNICAL IDENTITY
Specifications & construction
Production & construction
- Production
- 1000
- Production type
- Limited
Engine & performance
- Engine configuration
- Inline-4
- Top speed
- 125 km/h
Dimensions & accommodation
- Length
- 3,650 mm
- Width
- 1,460 mm
- Height
- 1,300 mm
Design & manufacture
- Manufacturer · Documented
- Fiat
- Coachbuilder / Body Builder · Documented
- Vignale
- Designer · Documented
- Virginio Vairo
06 / EVENTS & AWARDS
Events & awards
46° Salone Internazionale dell'Automobile – Torino General · legacy_preserved
- Date
- 1964
- Chassis
- General
Preserved CI 1.0 relation. Evidence field: _yoast_wpseo_primary_events. No award inferred.
07 / THE VEHICLE IN DETAIL
Photo gallery 12 photographs
Show 6 more photographs Show fewer photographs
08 / FROM THE ARCHIVE
Archive
No publishable archival references are currently catalogued for this vehicle.











THE CONVERSATION
Comments 0
Share a memory, a period photograph or a documented detail about this car.