Innocenti 186 GT Bertone

The Innocenti 186 GT, born amidst Innocenti’s foray into car production in 1960, marked a pivotal moment. Assembling BMC models in its Lambrate factory laid the groundwork, but the ambition to diversify spurred an innovative idea: a compact grand tourer. In 1963, a landmark agreement was struck between Innocenti and Ferrari, envisioning a sleek coupe housing a potent V6 engine. Powered by Ferrari’s 154 HP 1.8 V6 engine, mated to a British-derived 4-speed manual gearbox with overdrive, the 186 GT promised a thrilling drive. Under the skilled design direction of Bertone and the creative vision of Giugiaro, a stunning 2+2 fastback coupe emerged. The debut model, clad in aluminum bodywork, embarked on rigorous testing at the Lambrate track. However, by 1964, the ambitious project encountered setbacks. Concerns arose over the fledgling state of Innocenti’s dealer network, deemed insufficient for the distribution of such a high-caliber vehicle. Moreover, the economic downturn further dimmed prospects for launching an upscale GT model. Despite this setback, remnants of the 186 GT’s legacy endure. Of the two prototypes crafted, one met its demise, while the other found refuge within the confines of the company’s factory warehouse. When Fiat assumed control of the brand in 1994, the plant’s demolition seemed to seal the fate of this pioneering vehicle. Yet, fate had other plans. Maserati historian Ermanno Cozza intervened, rescuing the surviving Innocenti 186 GT from obscurity. In a momentous turn of events, the revered relic found a new home in 2015, joining the esteemed collection of the Ferrari Museum in Maranello, preserving its legacy for generations to come.