1965 Autobianchi Bianchina Cabriolet Convertible Fiat 500 Jolly Mini Car

1965 Autobianchi Bianchina -- Description:

1965 Autobianchi Bianchina Convertible. One of only 2,750 produced, this 1965 Autobianchi Bianchini Cabriolet is among the most rare of the microcars that proliferated throughout Europe in the post-World War II era and on into the 1960s. Based on the mechanicals of Fiat’s ubiquitous 500, the first Autobianchi was presented to the public at the Museum of Science and Technology in Milan. Although known throughout Europe as a builder of quality bicycles and motorcycles, Bianchi had begun producing its own automobiles in 1899 that were notable for their upscale execution and features. The company’s fortunes were at their lowest ebb in the early postwar period, when all that was left of the original Bianchi factory in Abruzzi was a bombed-out ruin and the elder Bianchi lost his life in a car accident. Eduardo’s son Giuseppe took control, building a new factory in Desio to meet the high demand for bicycles, motorcycles and commercial vehicles. Giuseppe’s ambitions did not stop with raising the company from the ruins of war; he also dreamed of putting the Bianchi nameplate once again on an automobile. Lacking the resources to do it on his own, he then approached Italy’s industrial giants Fiat and Pirelli to mount a joint venture to their mutual benefit, which they founded under the Autobianchi corporate banner. Autobianchi’s first model, the Trasformabile, was designed as an upscale offering with far more luxury and style than the Fiat 500 on which it was based. In 1960, the Trasformabile was replaced with the cabriolet, a pleasing combination of unpretentious design and mechanical reliability that microcar enthusiasts appreciate for its elegance and sporting nature. This rare 1965 Autobianchi Bianchina Cabriolet was produced in the first year the company offered metallic paint finishes. Boasting new metallic blue paint, new interior upholstery and carpets, and new tires and brakes, it presents in excellent condition with just 40 miles after its 500cc engine and 4-speed transmission were rebuilt. Runs great! It’s an outstanding little piece of Italian motoring history with great appeal to microcar enthusiasts. Comes with Tool Kit, Waterproof Car cover for yacht use, original Purchase Document, and owners manual.