Siata 208 CS Vignale

The Siata 208 CS Vignale is an extraordinary one-off Italian grand tourer designed by the renowned Giovanni Michelotti. is unique coupe that stands as a testament to the craftsmanship and ingenuity of Carrozzeria Vignale. Built on the 208 CS chassis, specifically CS070, this model features a longer 2700 mm wheelbase, setting it apart from other 208 CS variants and imparting a more refined, grand touring presence. The Vignale-designed body of the Siata 208 CS shares a design lineage with Ferrari’s 212 and 250 Europa “Geneva Coupes,” known for their luxurious interiors, handcrafted details, and distinct grille and bumper aesthetics. These coupes often sported dynamic two-tone color schemes that highlighted the elegant and sporty character of Michelotti’s designs. The Siata 208 CS Vignale echoes this ethos, combining luxurious appointments with an athletic stance. The genesis of this unique Siata began when its engine, designated CS040, was invoiced to Siata on December 31, 1952. The car made its first public appearance at the Paris Salon de l’Automobile in October 1953, followed by a showing at the Geneva Motor Show in March 1954. Initially sold through the official Siata agent Denezio Zarattini, it was registered in Rome on June 7, 1955, as “Roma 225576.” Its first owner was Stabilimenti Chimico-Farmaceutici Dott. R. Ravasini e C.ia. S.p.A., a pharmaceutical firm based in Rome. In 1960, the car made its way to the United States, purchased by Larry Reed, a Los Angeles sports car dealer. By that time, the Siata had undergone significant modifications, including the installation of a 270 HP Corvette engine paired with a 3-speed close-ratio gearbox. The car, described as a “Gran Turismo 4-pass coupe,” was advertised in Road & Track magazine in 1963. In 2013, the car was acquired by a new owner who sought to restore it to its original condition. Working with historian John de Boer, the original Otto Vu engine and gearbox were located, and the restoration was meticulously undertaken by Brian Hoyt’s Perfect Reflections and Epifani Restorations, noted specialists in Italian exotics. The restoration, completed in 2024, returned the car to its authentic configuration, preserving the Vignale bodywork and original drivetrain. Since its restoration, the Siata 208 CS Vignale has made only a single public appearance, at The Quail, A Motorsports Gathering, where its impeccable craftsmanship and rich history were celebrated. As a peer-judged event, it provided the perfect stage for this unique Italian classic, whose legacy continues to captivate collectors and automotive enthusiasts alike. The Siata 208 CS Vignale remains a singular piece of automotive artistry, combining heritage, rarity, and exceptional restoration quality.