1973 Fiat 850 Sport Spider - 43,005 Miles - Collector Owned - None Better

Description

1973 Fiat 850 Sport Spider - 43,005 Miles - Collector Owned - None Better
This beautiful 1973850 Sport Spideris part of a 60+ car private collection in Austin, Texas.
I acquired this 850 in August of of 2011 from a dealer in California who had the car under consignment from its third owner. Under my care, the car has been stored at my private facility and serviced by my staff who maintain all the cars in my collection. When I acquired the car, it had traveled 42,822 miles in it's 30+ years. Having been driven an additional 185 miles since then, the mileage today is 43,005.
1973 was the final year of production for the 850 and the Sport Spiders of that year are considered the best of the breed benefiting from multiple improvements made to the platform over the years including the more powerful, 903cc engine.
This particular 850 was purchased new by it's original owner from European Motor Service in Tacoma, WA on November 3, 1973. Interestingly, both the original warranty/service book as well as the original title application (both included with the car) make note of the fact that the car was purchased after being a dealer demonstration vehicle which helps explain the car's striking and rare black/red color combination.
After more than two decades with the original owner, the car was acquired by its second owner, a resident of Pahrump, NV, who immediately began a full mechanical and cosmetic restoration of the car, finishing and finally titling the car in his name on June 11, 2002. Included with the car are more than 30 color photographs documenting the restoration and showing not only the extent of the work but also the solid condition of the car pre-restoration and the original black/red color scheme. Also included are period photographs of the restored car on display at various car shows including the famous Concorso Italiano in Monterey Bay, CA.
On December 14, 2007 the car was acquired by its third owner (the last before me) who resided in Northridge, CA. The title transfer of this date documents the car's original mileage of 42,521 miles at the time of sale meaning that the car was only driven 301 miles by this owner before I acquired the car in 2011 at 42,822 miles.
Recent estimates have suggested there may be less than 200 of these rare cars still in existence. Regardless, I believe this car to be one of the finest, if not the finest, 850's left in the world. If you've been waiting for the best, I urge you to come see this car. You may never see another one as good as this.
Further information is provided below.
Mechanicals:The car starts, stops, shifts and drives exactly as you would expect and runs cool with excellent oil pressure even in the 100+ degree Texas summer heat.The clutch is strong, the car shifts precisely, with no grinding or odd noises, and it brakes easily and in a straight line. There are no fluid leaks or smoking from the engine. The electrics - always an area of concern on vintage Italian cars - are outstanding and have given me no issues. The lights, gauges, wipers, and other electrical components are all functioning as intended.
The motor was rebuilt at 39,900 miles when the car was restored by the second owner. The car is rust-free andshows no evidence of ever having been involved in a collision or accident. The car is, of course, numbers-matching.The tires on the car are excellent.
Exterior:From every angle, the car presents beautifully. The paint, while now almost 20 years old, still shows well with excellent luster and only the slightest patina in the form of a few rock chips and a tiny nick here and there. Please look carefully at the dozens of high-definition photos I have included in my online gallery. All of my photos were taken in natural sunlight and none have been edited in any way.
Like the paint, and as you'd expect from a car that has been driven only a few thousand miles since restoration, the glass, trim, chrome, emblems, lenses, and exterior hardware are all in excellent condition. The vinyl convertible top (including the interior frame) is in outstanding condition appearing almost new with the exception of a tiny, 1/8-inch puncture (almost like someone accidentally pierced it with their key) which could easily be repaired but never bothered me as I don't drive the car with the top up.
The only flaw worth mentioning is a small crease in the front bumper. I considered having the bumper straightened and re-chromed but the crease in the bumper is directly behind the front license plate and almost impossible to see with the license plate mounted. If you look closely at the final two photos in my online album, I've tried to photograph this part of the bumper but, as you'll see, it's very hard to notice.
Interior:The interior of this Spider is beyond stunning in its original and rare factory red.The dashtop is gorgeous - free of cracks and showing no warping. The door panels are beautiful. The seats are outstanding. The rubber floor mats are pristine and covered by a new set of coco mats.
I've taken the time to provide multiple, close-up photos of the interior from almost every angle. Please examine them closely and pay attention to the details. Yes, the big things like the dash, seats, and door panels all look excellent. But look even more closely at the small things. The interior details of this car will exceed your expectations.
For more than 60 high-resolution photos, please visit:
1973 Fiat 850 Sport Spider Online Photo Album
For me, finding the right home for this car is as important as getting the best price. If you have any questions, or would like to discuss this car in more detail, please feel free to contact me. In-person inspections and test-drives are welcomed and encouraged but please do so before clicking “Buy It Now” or committing to a purchase.
I have a clear and correct Texas title for this vehicle in my possession and the car includes its original manuals. Transportation and delivery of this vehicle is the responsibility of the purchaser. I'll happily assist in any way I can. I'll accept payment by wire transfer, cash or certified cashier’s check. A $500 non-refundable deposit is due upon agreeing to purchase with the balance due within 3 business days.