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THE ITALIAN COACHBUILDER SITE

Fiat Wish

1999Coachwork by Pininfarina

THE VEHICLE AT A GLANCE

Model dossier

Production period
1999
Body style
Cabriolet
Type
Concept
Production
1

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 Wish was a coupé-cabriolet concept car based on the Fiat Punto, designed to follow the trend of hard-top convertible roofs seen in models like the Peugeot 206 CC and the Mercedes SLK. Conceived by Pininfarina to commemorate Fiat’s centenary, the Wish was a technological marvel aimed at demonstrating the potential for a 2+2 convertible that could seamlessly transform from a cabriolet to a coupé and back again in just a few seconds. The key feature of the Fiat Wish was its refined electro-hydraulic system, which allowed the hard top to be tucked away neatly into the upper section of the boot. This system showcased Pininfarina‘s engineering prowess and commitment to innovative design, offering both the elegance of a coupé and the open-air freedom of a cabriolet without compromising on practicality or aesthetics. As a concept car, the Fiat Wish served as a technological study, exploring the feasibility and advantages of integrating a retractable hard top into a compact car design. The use of an electro-hydraulic mechanism not only provided a smooth and efficient operation but also highlighted the potential for advanced engineering solutions in future production models. The Wish’s design reflected the stylish and dynamic character of the Fiat Punto, enhanced by Pininfarina’s sophisticated touch. The concept car’s sleek lines and elegant proportions underscored its dual nature, offering a sporty coupé profile with the roof up and a chic cabriolet silhouette when the roof was down. Inside, the 2+2 seating arrangement ensured that the car remained practical for everyday use, catering to both driver and passengers with comfort and style. By combining cutting-edge technology with elegant design, the Fiat Wish exemplified Pininfarina’s vision for the future of convertible cars. It demonstrated how a compact vehicle could offer versatility and sophistication, appealing to those who sought both performance and practicality in a stylish package. Though it remained a concept, the Fiat Wish left a lasting impression on the automotive world, showcasing the innovative spirit and design excellence that both Fiat and Pininfarina are known for.

02 / TECHNICAL IDENTITY

Specifications & construction

Production & construction

Production
1
Production type
Concept
Mechanical platform
Fiat Punto II

Engine & performance

Specification notes
Pininfarina Fiat Wish (1999) was a coupé-cabriolet concept on Fiat Punto II mechanical basis, created for Fiat's centenary. Published project histories confirm the donor architecture and electro-hydraulic retractable hardtop, but do not establish a Wish-specific engine/output; Punto production variants are not inherited.

Design & manufacture

Manufacturer · Documented
Fiat
Coachbuilder / Body Builder · Documented
Pininfarina

06 / EVENTS & AWARDS

Events & awards

Frankfurt General · legacy_preserved
Date
1999
Chassis
General

Preserved CI 1.0 relation. Evidence field: _yoast_wpseo_primary_events. No award inferred.

08 / FROM THE ARCHIVE

Archive

References held in the vehicle dossier. Their inclusion does not establish that every historical claim has been independently verified.

ReferenceSource type
Story Cars — 1999 Fiat Wish www.story-cars.com Specialist concept archive

10 / CONNECTED HISTORY

Timeline

Chronological history1 dated records
  1. Unassigned chassis · Event

    Frankfurt

THE CONVERSATION

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