Amidst a warehouse full of vintage cars, this seller has identified three that are for sale. Two are of Italian origin (Fiat Spyder, 1200 and 1500) and the other is from Germany (VW Karmann Ghia). All three of these cars are convertibles and need work, some more than others. But they’re automobiles you don’t see around much these days as they date back 50-60 years. Located in Goodview, Virginia, none of these little machines run and are available here on craigslist for $2,300 to $3,000 depending on which one. Thanks, Chuck Foster, for bringing these cars to light for us.
1959 Fiat 1200 Spyder
The 1200, designed by Pininfarina, was introduced in 1957 as a successor to the 1100. It ran through 1959 when it was replaced by the 1200 Cabriolet like the seller’s car which itself was produced through 1963. The body on this example looks to be in fair condition and the only part missing according to the seller is the engine head. Asking price: $3,000. 1-4
1964 Fiat 1500 Spyder
Also a Pininfarina design, the 1500 came off the assembly line between 1961-67. This roadster shared very few things mechanically with its sedan and wagon cousins. Most examples left the factory with a 1.5-liter I-4, although rumors persist that a few of them had a 1.6-liter engine. The seller says his ’64 Spyder has rusty floorboards. Asking price: also $3,000. A-D
1971 VW Karmann Ghia
The Volkswagen Karmann Ghia was offered as a 2+2 coupe (1955–74) and a 2 +2 convertible (1957–74), including the seller’s ’71 which seems less complete than the other two cars. Karmann Ghia’s combined the chassis and mechanics of the Beetle with styling by Carrozzeria Ghia and hand-built bodywork by German coachbuilder Karmann, hence the involved name. We’re told this one has a good body and motor, but no title. Asking Price: $2,300.
VW price seems reasonable to start a project. I know little about Fiats however. .
Who cares about those two little cars. I want the 1949 Chrysler Town & Country hardtop in the background!!
About the Fiat 1500 Convertible it shares pretty much all mechanical parts with the siblings, whether being the Coupe, the Berlina or the Wagon. I put an 1800 twin cam and 5-speed into a -67 1500 Berlina, it was largely a bolt in job. Should be no more difficult in this one.
Already the 82 hp 1500 was very quick for its time, I think the Berlina was around 900kg. With the 118 hp twin cam it became one of my all time favorite cars.
And yes, there was a 1600 with an Osca twin cam. Rare and pricey!