FIAT Ghia Classic Cars for Sale

History of the FIAT Ghia 1500 GT

The Fiat Ghia 1500 GT emerged in the early 1960s, an era when Italian coachbuilding was at its zenith. Developed by Carrozzeria Ghia under the management of Luigi Segre, the coupe made its debut based on the Fiat 1500. Unlike the standard model, significant modifications distinguished the Ghia: it featured a shortened wheelbase and the engine was repositioned 40 cm further back, optimising weight distribution and agility. This careful tuning resulted in improved driving dynamics and balance, cementing its reputation amongst enthusiasts. The model was entirely hand-built, underscoring the craftsmanship involved. At launch, the design and engineering fused the sporting spirit with restrained elegance, earning the car considerable acclaim from the motoring press of the day.

Model History of the FIAT Ghia Series

The 1500 GT by Ghia did not have a direct predecessor or successor in the FIAT lineup, owing to its bespoke nature. Originating in 1961, the Ghia coupe took the major mechanical components of the standard Fiat 1500 but introduced radical updates. Its bespoke chassis, shortened by 8 cm, and hand-formed panels made it stand apart even within specialist circles. Production ran for a very brief period, and with low output numbers (just 846 built), it maintained exclusivity. Over time, the car’s limited availability—combined with its specialised Ghia design—ensured its standing as a significant chapter in Fiat's partnership with Italian coachbuilders.

Highlights and Rarity of the FIAT Ghia 1500 GT

The Fiat Ghia 1500 GT is recognised for its rarity and engineering sophistication. Its motor placement, further back than the donor Fiat 1500, improved driving dynamics—a rare feature among contemporaries of its class. The hand-made bodywork incorporated an electric auxiliary fan, another technical highlight for its time. During production, only 846 examples left the Ghia workshops. Today, an estimated 70 remain—an extraordinarily low survival rate, underlining its exclusivity for collectors and enthusiasts.

Technical Data of the FIAT Ghia 1500 GT

Special Editions and Collectible Variants

Every Fiat Ghia 1500 GT could be regarded as a collectible due to the incredibly low production numbers and unique coachbuilt character. While there are no variants explicitly described as 'special editions,' the combination of hand-formed bodywork, limited supply, and unique technical configurations makes every surviving example a remarkable find. Some cars are traded as unrestored 'barn finds', adding a layer of interest for restoration-focused collectors.

Weak Spots and Common Issues

Potential owners should be most concerned with the sheet metal: the handmade Ghia bodies are prone to rust, particularly at structural points like the chassis rails. Most restoration efforts tend to target these mechanical areas. Some vehicles are found without the original engine or gearbox, requiring significant expertise and patience to restore. The availability of original repair manuals and spare parts catalogues is a plus but does not make restoration straightforward. Thorough inspection, especially for rust and prior body repairs, is highly recommended.

Engine and Performance, Transmission and Handling

The Fiat Ghia 1500 GT's dynamic personality stems from technical modifications over the donor Fiat 1500. The shorter wheelbase and rear-set engine provided notable enhancements in steering precision and handling stability, substantially improving cornering behaviour over the base model. The car retains the Fiat 1500’s engine—respected for its reliability—supported by improved cooling thanks to the auxiliary electric fan. These mechanical choices highlight the focus on driving pleasure, especially on twisty roads or during historic rallies. The Ghia 1500 GT itself is the highlight: due to the limited production run, each car comes with its own unique story, especially those discovered as barn finds or surviving in unrestored condition.

Interior, Comfort, Exterior and Design

Carrozzeria Ghia prioritised individual craftsmanship; the bodywork was entirely hand-shaped and is widely celebrated for its elegance and distinctive proportions. The interior typically featured high-quality materials for the time, with subtle sporting touches reflecting the coupé’s ambitions. Unique design cues include slender pillars, a fastback roofline, and finely detailed trim elements. While documentation on factory-fitted accessories is limited, preserved original examples often feature period-correct upholstery, dashboard details, and optional equipment like the electric fan—a nod to both style and pragmatic engineering.

Other Features

Detailed operation and workshop manuals as well as authentic spare parts catalogues are available for the Ghia 1500 GT, which helps with preservation and restoration efforts. Even so, due to its rarity and specialised construction, prospective owners must factor in research and networking with other owners or specialists when undertaking maintenance or restoration projects.

Summary

The Fiat Ghia 1500 GT ranks among the most distinct and technically ambitious vehicles produced through the collaboration between Fiat and the legendary Carrozzeria Ghia. Its rare combination of bespoke hand-formed body, advanced technical layout, and extremely limited numbers ensures lasting fascination among collectors. A true connoisseur’s coupé, it rewards those who value individuality and Italian engineering history.