1953 Fiat 8V Supersonic (Ghia coachwork)
- Engine
- OHV light-alloy V8, ~135 bhp (tuned output)
- Colour
- Medium metallic blue ('blu medio metallizato')
The Fiat 8V chassis 000053 is one of only 14 Supersonic-bodied examples constructed by Carrozzeria Ghia on a Fiat 8V platform, wearing coachwork designed by Giovanni Savonuzzi in a distinctive blue metallic over terra cotta leather colour combination unique among the Supersonics. Dispatched from the Fiat factory in July 1953, the car passed through a short chain of Italian owners before spending over three decades in underground storage, emerging as an essentially original survivor. A meticulous body, mechanical, and interior restoration was completed in the early 2010s by Italian specialists.
Ownership
- —Auction saleSold US$2,425,000
- 1953 → 1960Factory deliveryAlessandro Sartipartial documentation
Resident of San Marino; displayed the car at a regional concours in 1955 and likely retained it through the end of the decade.
- 1960 → 1970Private salePiero Fagiolipartial documentation
Based in Rimini; purchased the car intending it as a potential parts source for a race 8V, but the car was rarely driven and no significant components were ever removed.
- 1970 → 2001Private saleEduardo Tenconipartial documentation
Official Fiat dealer based in Milan; already owned two factory-bodied 8V examples and chose to store the Supersonic in an underground garage where it remained undisturbed for over three decades.
- 2001 →Private saleBelgian private collectorpartial documentation
Longtime 8V enthusiast who discovered the car in unrestored stored condition; commissioned a full body, interior, and mechanical restoration beginning in spring 2011 through respected Italian specialists.
Competition
- 1955Rimini Concours d'Elegance
First owner displayed the Supersonic at this event; documented by a contemporary press clipping from Auto Italiana.
Maintenance & restoration
- 2011RestorationQuality Cars of Vigonza
Full bodywork and interior restoration carried out from spring 2011. Surviving traces of original paint and leather were used as reference to refinish the aluminium coachwork in the original blue metallic colour and retrim the interior in terra cotta leather, with seats hand-stitched in traditional fashion.
Commissioned by the Belgian consignor; photographic documentation produced throughout the process.
- 2011Engine rebuildMotor Holding
Complete overhaul of the matching-numbers engine and gearbox, together with full mechanical refurbishment of the chassis and running gear. Upgraded connecting rods, pistons, and a purpose-built balanced crankshaft were fitted to eliminate drivetrain vibration.
Work overseen by Roberto de Checchi; dynamometer testing conducted upon completion.
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