Gianni Agnelli inherited management of Fabbrica Italiana di Automobili Torino, which we know as Fiat, in 1963 when he was in his mid-forties. Fiat had been founded by a consortium including Gianni’s grandfather Giovanni in 1899, producing its first car that same year. By the time Gianni took the reins, Fiat was one of the largest industrial companies in Europe, and he helped steer it through a significant new phase of growth. Riding high, Agnelli commissioned several cars from other makers including Ferrari and Lancia. Today’s 1974 Fiat 130 Familiare is another of these special cars, this time from his own company. Either three or four were made; one for Gianni himself, one for Umberto Agnelli, one for family friend Guido Nicola, and a possible fourth. This example belonged to Gianni and he used it until 1985, when it was sold on. RM Sotheby’s offered this car on a sealed bid basis, with the auction ending April 24 at no reserve; it is located in Milano, Italy. Once again, we have Araknid78 to thank for finding us another rare vehicle to profile here at Barn Finds!

The Fiat 130 followed the 2300, each of them occupying the “executive” luxury niche though the 130 sat on a longer wheelbase and incorporated fully independent four-wheel suspension. The 130’s Tipo B 160 hp 3.2 liter six-cylinder engine is backed by a Borg Warner three-speed automatic transmission. Disc brakes at all four corners finished this upscale package. Post -Agnelli, this car has been kept well-exercised, showing up at several European events.

If there were any doubts about this Fiat’s luxury intentions, the interior dispels them. Wide bucket seats, wood-laminated dash, and air conditioning have pleased its drivers for decades. The condition of the cabin is above reproach. If you wonder at Agnelli’s decision to equip his personal car with an automatic, that was his preference for daily driving after an accident left him less comfortable operating a clutch. Befitting Agnelli’s reputation as a stylish playboy, it’s said that the accident was a result of a foiled getaway when he was caught by the husband of a lover.

The Familiare was designed in-house but constructed by a family-owned coachbuilder called Officina Introzzi, known for turning sedans into wagons. Boxy, with faux wood sides, a hatchback, and bright trim, it radiated an American aura. Agnelli used its wicker roof basket to haul his skis; the wicker remains in remarkable condition. Of course, we don’t yet know who was high bidder here, but perhaps in time we will see more of this unusual wagon, and the new owner’s identity will be revealed.