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An astonishing Fiat Bertone X1/9 VS Versione Special with only 6,341 miles.
MODEL HISTORY
Launched in Italy in 1972, the Fiat X1/9 was designed at one of Italy’s finest design houses, Bertone, who are also accredited with the Lamborghini Countach and Miura and the Lancia Stratos. Throughout its 17-year production the only major change was the introduction in 1978 of a 1498cc engine with 5-speed gearbox to replace the 1290cc, 4-speed unit. Frequently described in the motoring press as ‘the baby Ferrari’, prime examples of the X1/9 are highly sought after. Amongst the most desirable is the X1/9 VS ‘Versione Special’ built to celebrate production leaving Fiat in 1982 and moving to its designer, Bertone.
EQUIPMENT
Mid-engine rear wheel drive configuration, two door two seater body, front and rear luggage compartments, removable Targa top with stowage space, aerodynamic front spoiler, roll over bar, retractable halogen headlamps, tinted windows, rev counter, oil pressure and water temperature gauges, digital clock, heated rear window, lockable glovebox, Nuccio Bertone dashboard signature plaque, door mounted courtesy lamps. VS ‘Versione Special’ Equipment: Metallic two-tone paintwork, alloy wheels, tailored X1/9 luggage set consisting of two holdalls, electric windows, leather upholstery including door trim, steering wheel, and gear stick gaiter. Dealer Options: SHARP stereo cassette player model RG-875B.
EXTERIOR
The ultimate garage find, this astonishing Fiat Bertone X1/9 VS boasts incredible provenance being in the same family from new, 6,341 miles and total originality throughout. Finished in Argento Metallic over Grigio Scuro Metallic, (Code FI 656 T.C./FI 900 T.C.), the paintwork is 100% original and presents in showroom condition, entirely commensurate with 6,341 miles and strict garage storage from new. All factory panels are pin straight with linear shut lines and the original factory decals and Bertone Torino badges are perfectly preserved. The Carello light fittings all round are as new with factory labels even still visible on the pop-up headlamps! The Targa top and louvred engine cover are in perfect condition, as is the trim with exception of slight tarnishing to the edge of the aluminium rear bumper, utter insignificant. Supplying dealer fitted number plates, tax disc holder and rear screen sticker add to the astonishing untouched nature of this very special example.
INTERIOR
A luxurious level of trim with unmistakable Italian flair! The interior is virtually perfect and the super-low mileage and indoor storage is clearly evident. Striking Rosso Red leather swathes the beautifully sculptured seats, door trim, steering wheel and gear stick gaiter. The leather condition is perfect and absolutely no sun fatigue or fading is detected, nor is any visible wear. The cockpit is classic sportscar with vibrant instruments and dials including the wonderful reverse revolution tachometer. All interior functions operate perfectly and the switchgear and controls look and feel like new having been protected from UV and usage wear. The only visible imperfection noted is a small area of lifting vinyl on top of the instrument binnacle. Both luggage compartments are spotless and display factory plates and labels. Perhaps most impressive is the tailored X1/9 luggage set consisting of two holdalls which have never been used and are still in the polythene bag, utterly magical!
ENGINE & TRANSMISSION
The eager, free-revving 1498cc mid-mounted engine produces 85bhp at 6000rpm with performance quoted at 0-60mph in 9.9 seconds and a dramatic top speed of 108mph. The totally original and unspoilt engine bay is a connoisseur’s delight in pristine order with every factory label and sticker still bright and intact. The 5-speed gearbox is light and precise and the driving experience of this low mileage and preserved car is truly sensational.
WHEELS, TYRES & BRAKES
The VS Comodera wheels are in amazing condition and display the correct factory original finish with Bertone stampings and no markings. Likewise, the Bertone centre covers are immaculate and even the original Bertone stamped wheel studs remain! Those seeking true concours originality will be delighted to see retainment of the five factory fitted 1984 dated Pirelli Cinturato P3 165/70 SR13 tyres, the spare having never been used. For those wishing to enjoy this baby Ferrari, a full set of brand-new premium Uniroyal tyres of correct size have been consigned from a specialist supplier and can be fitted to the car prior to sale. Discs brakes are fitted to all four wheels on this VS model and have been fully overhauled in November 2024.
HISTORY FILE
A fascinating car with a wonderful history. The history file begins with a letter from the only owner’s son where he writes that on the 11th May 1984 his late mother, Mary, made a diary entry, “went to Colmore depot to see Fiat X1/9”. The letter goes on to explain that the car was ordered on the 1st June and collection day was Friday the 8th June, “a sunny, warm and dry day”. The radio cassette was fitted six days later at the dealership and the car was driven only for pleasure and in strictly clement weather. This was the beginning of a wonderful 40-year relationship with her beloved Fiat. Colmore of West Bromwich, a Ferrari and Fiat main dealer, supplied the car new for the price of £7,407.48 as evidenced by the original order form and sales invoice made out to Mrs Nicklin. Her 1982 Triumph Acclaim with just 6,000 miles was taken in part exchange! The car has covered a verified 6,341 miles from new and its originality is almost beyond comprehension. Used for leisure, it was taken off the road in 1993 and dry stored in a warm garage allowing amazing preservation to prevail. From 1984-1993 there is annual servicing evidenced by 11 stamped entries in the service book with corresponding invoices. Every MOT certificate from the first in 1987 to 1993 is filed. The full Bertone document wallet is present along with spare keys and aerial puller. Even an original Fiat X1/9VS sales brochure and the tyre pressure warning label hanger have been kept!
In September 2024, KGF Classic Cars were invited by Mrs Nicklin’s son to visit his late mother’s home to inspect her Fiat X1/9 which had been off the road for 31 years. Upon seeing the car in the garage, it was clear to see the car was incredibly original and had been cherished and preserved impeccably. The car had to be bought and upon arrival at KGF Classic Cars headquarters the recommissioning work began. Full recommissioning has now taken place to all mechanicals to include, fuel system, braking, all oils and fluids, all belts. The car now looks, feels and drives like it would if it were in a Fiat showroom in the mid 1980’s and the chance to buy such an example for the collector wanting the very, very best has arisen.
MOT November 2025, HPI Clear.
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