Although a brand like Fiat has had a chequered past, especially with the mid-1970s to 1990s doldrum of some truly poor cars in both design and construction, they do have a long and illustrious history and still produce some gems. Ownership of Ferrari also has helped to elevate the brand and it means that if you are looking for Ferrari parts, looking in the Fiat parts bin might save you a bit of money. However, Fiat used to be known for both luxury and Italian refinement. They produced a V12 back in the 1920s, in the same range as the car we see today, although ours is the V6 version. If you want a taste of some Italian luxury from a century ago, then you can find the auction here on eBay for $5,100 with the reserve not yet met. The lucky bidder will have to pick this up from the seller in Pasadena, California. Thanks to Araknid78 for this tip!

The first 520 Superfiat was released in 1921, and was the only V12 in the world at the time, with a whopping 90hp from its 6,805cc engine. Our car is based upon the same 520, but with a slightly shorter wheelbase and with an engine half the size, with 6 cylinders. It’s also the Torpedo version which means the smaller engine, with 1866cc pumping out an enviable 35hp. Interestingly, this was one of the first cars in the world to place the steering wheel on the right, in alignment with Italian regulations. Before this time they had most often sat in the center.

Our car is in great condition given its age and was destined for ‘customization’ by the seller. It would seem a shame to cut up a surviving Fiat like this, given it doesn’t appear to need a lot of work on the outside. Luckily the engine turns freely and the interior and exterior look is drivable condition. However, with a car this age, you will need to go through and do a few checks before driving it on the road – prepare your grease and lube.

From the pictures, it looks likely that it has been restored at some point in the past with its bodywork in good condition without any obvious rust patches. Looking under the hood, there are some rusty engine parts, but nothing apparently serious. Unfortunately, it seems like pre-war cars are falling out of favor with a younger generation so you may be able to pick this up for a bargain price. But would you keep this Fiat as it is, or would you customize it like the seller originally intended?