1969 | FIAT 850 Racer Team Bertone

Highlights:

• Rare Team Racer
• Lamborghini Miura Seats
• Delivery Condition

Brand & Model History:

As with the C.L. version of the first series, the second series of the Fiat "850 Spider" was developed and marketed by "Carrozzeria Bertone" with several variants under its own name. This time, however, "Carrozzeria Bertone" aimed not only to give its "own" version a more elegant touch but also a sporty character, which is clearly evident in the name "Racer." Specifically, the models "Racer Berlinetta," "Racer Convertibile," and "Racer Team" were realized.

With the "Berlinetta," a true coupe was created, equipped with a metal roof covered in vinyl material instead of a convertible top. This roof was not a removable hardtop but was bolted to the body and thus an integral part of it. In the "Convertible" variant, the previous experience with the C.L. version was repeated, as the differences from the official version only concerned better fittings and the overall aesthetics. With the "Team" model, "Carrozzeria Bertone" attempted to create a real sports car with aesthetic features that emphasized racing ambitions. Fog lights were installed, a racing stripe was applied along the entire body, and typical sporty interiors were used.

The three "Racer" versions differed from each other in various aspects. The "Berlinetta" was a true coupe with a fixed roof and some details that distinguished it from the Spider from which it was derived. The roof was connected to the body. The "Racer" logo was affixed to the B-pillars, while the identification plaque "Berlinetta" was placed on the rear panel. As with the C.L. version, chrome profiles were attached to the wheel arches and under the side line.

The "Convertible" version was the one that remained closest to the Fiat "850 Sport Spider" among the three variants, from which it was derived. Externally, only the chrome profiles, like those on the "Berlinetta," were applied, while the identification plaque "Racer" was placed on the rear panel.

The "Team" variant was the sportiest and most ambitious for racing use. It was developed for races such as the Targa Florio or Rally Monte Carlo. The most notable features included the racing stripe, additional headlights, and smaller bumpers. The turn signals were made with the same two-tone lamps that were already seen in the first series. The lower part of the side line was painted in a dark color, while the vehicle's roof, identical to that of the "Berlinetta," was painted the same color as the car. Instead of the "Racer" badge on the sides of the roof, the inscription "Racer Team" was painted. On the rear panel, the identification plaque was "Berlinetta" or "Racer."

The interiors of the three "Racer" versions also differed in some details, but the dashboard remained the same for the "Convertible" and "Berlinetta" variants. In this case, the surface of the dashboard panels was covered with a textured fabric, and the same steering wheel was used that already characterized the "850 C.L." version.

For the "Racer Team," a sportier accent was set by covering the dashboard panels with brushed metal plates. Additionally, a sporty wooden steering wheel was installed.

Condition & History:

This Fiat 850 Team Racer is one of 763 original vehicles built. 529 were made for the Italian market, and 234 for Europe. It was delivered in the color Azzurro Mexico City Metallizatto and was registered in Turin on 27.04.1970. As an option, the Lamborghini Miura seats were ordered.

The Racer is registered in the Registro Fiat Italiano as well as in the Club Fiat 850 Spider Bertone. Furthermore, the Team Racer also has the A.S.I. certificate.

When the current owner bought the car in Italy, he had it restored from the ground up. The car is now completely rebuilt and again corresponds to its delivery condition. The interior has been kept original, including the original Lamborghini Miura seats that were installed at the time.

The engine compartment also matches the original condition. The only exception is the exhaust with a header from Abarth. The original muffler is part of the sale.

The magnesium wheels from Bertone have been restored and are in excellent condition.