The exceedingly rare 1953 FIAT 8V Supersonic ($TBA) is an absolutely stunning example of car manufacturing at its finest. One of only 15 examples built, the coachwork was designed by Giovanni Savonuzzi at Ghia, and sits atop the chassis of an Otto Vu – boasting the only overhead-valve V-8 that Fiat ever made! This thing is a BEAUT.
Known in Italy as the Otto Vu, the new model was positioned as a luxury grand touring sports car, wildly different from Fiat’s utilitarian car niche. In 2007, a painstaking restoration was initiated – completely rebuilding the entire makeup to the original specifications including rebuilding the transmission, smoothing out the bodywork, re-chroming the brightwork and restoring the dashboard instruments and gauges.
Lazaros Engineering handled the bulk of the mechanical restoration and detail work, also including rebuilding suspension components, brakes, differential, steering box and more. A handful of missing items (such as the tail lamps and wheel discs) were carefully replicated to the precise original dimensions and specifications. A great amount of tender love and care (as well as over $600,000 in repairs!) got her back in tip-top shape and is now presented in like-new condition!
Look for it to be showcased at vintage events, rallies around the world (like the Mille Miglia Storico and the Colorado Grand) and auctions worldwide. If you’re in the market for the pinnacle of luxury (and with a LOT – and we mean a LOT – of investable income), this 1953 Supersonic is above-and-beyond any classic car lover’s dreams.
