1969 FIAT 500 MORETTI COUPE, STUNNING, RARE, ABARTH, GIANNINI, ETCETERINI

Description

1969 FIAT 500 MORETTI COUPE
This rare and exquisite etceterini is currently owned by a mature aficionado who has a penchant for the unique and obscure of Europe. Introduced in 1957, the FIAT 500 was a utilitarian mover intended for the masses and quickly became a staple for Italy's booming vehicle tuner industry. While Abarth dominated the race circuit with it's high performance iterations, Giannini sold tuner kits and complete cars to those who sought a spirited driver with flair. Not far behind was Moretti, often considered the center diamond of Italy's etceterini crown, with their elegant and spritely entry, the 500 Coupe. The Moretti 500 Coupe prototype debuted at the Turin Auto Show in 1960, with production ceasing in 1969. Beautifully proportioned, these Michelotti designed car were hand-built with a smooth and sloping posterior that afforded both styling and visibility, not easily achieved on a car of this stature. Being a true boutique manufacturer, the Coupes were not comparatively cheap, therefore selling in low numbers. Extant running 500 Coupes are estimated to be less than 100.
This particular example was restored in Italy by Legend Motors approximately 13 years ago, eventually landing Stateside. The drivetrain was ungraded from 500cc to 650cc to increase performance and driveablity. The engine pulls smoothly without hesitation (please see attatched videos). An Abarth sump and dual tipped sport exhaust complete the package in perfect Italian style. The car starts, drives, steers and stop like it did when new. The clutch actuates clean and crisps shifts from the 4 speed gearbox. F.P.S wheels are 12 inch alloy with modern CEAT tires on them. All lights and electricals operate properly, as do the gauges. The exterior of the car dons excellent paint with some very minor scratches indicative of being driven. There is no rust, as the car has always remained indoors and not driven in foul weather under any circumstances. Interior is essentially new with no signs of wear or discoloration.
All in all, this Moretti is ready for both show and go. Always garaged and cared for, it comes complete with manuals and documentation.For those of you in the know, etceterini marques like Moretti, continue to gain the serious attention of both collectors and enthusiasts alike with their undeniable charm and indelible mark on automotive evolution/history. You will be hard pressed to find another Moretti 500 Coupe like the one presented here. Please ask all questions and arrange for all inspections before bidding. Zero feedback bidders MUST contact me before bidding or I will cancel your bid. Many detailed and high resolution pictures, so be patient as they load. Vehicle is sold "AS-IS" unless stated otherwise. There are no warranties/guarantees either expressed or implied. Please e-mail or call Sam (626/590-4177) with inquiries. Good luck bidding and thank you for viewing my auction.
PLEASE VIEW THE FOLLOWING VIDEO LINKS FOR VEHICLE DRIVEABILITY AND OPERATION:
https://youtu.be/UmyCfAK7f7M
https://youtu.be/SiMofax9Pto
https://youtu.be/y3vlHkmNBx4
https://youtu.be/0yyTbO1HuFw