We are pleased to offer for sale this magnificent 1937 Fiat 508S Balilla Sport Coppa d'Oro, owned from 1959 to 2019 by the famous singer Nino Ferrer (real name Augustino Ferrari) and his wife. Produced in the SIMCA factories under license from FIAT in Suresnes in 1937, this pre-war spider won many prestigious races in its category, such as the Mille Miglia or the 24 Hours of Le Mans, but also the "Coppa d'Oro dell Litorio", the Italian race from which it took its name. It is a sporty version of a small popular car of the time, having been declined in several bodyworks. It was in 1933 that the sports version presented today was born.

Our example was owned by the singer Nino Ferrer from 1959 until the end of his life and was only offered for sale by his heirs in 2019, when the previous owner, an enlightened and passionate connoisseur, acquired the vehicle. The car was restored from 1975 onwards and for several years by Mr Ferrer's Italian specialists and personal friends: Fissore for the renovation of the bodywork in Savigliano, Tencioni for the mechanics and reassembly in Milan, and Acquati for the paint. With a non-guaranteed mileage of 5389 kilometers since it was put on the road in 1937, this extraordinary vehicle is eligible for the Mille Miglia, the Targa Florio and many other historic events. There are no immediate costs, the car is not damaged and is registered in France with a collector's license. History and documentation available on request.

ENGINE AND GEARBOX
The original 108 CS type in-line 4-cylinder engine (a rare version equipped with overhead valves for extra power) with a displacement of 995 cc is fitted with a Deutshe & Vergaster carburettor developing a maximum power of 36 hp at 4400 rpm. The vehicle is equipped with a 4-speed mechanical gearbox with reverse gear. Once the engine is started without any problems, smoke or suspicious noises, the car quickly stabilizes in the revs. The gearbox shifts well if you are patient, as it is not synchronized, and the vehicle accelerates without any power loss.
As for the chassis, the rigid axles equipped with hydraulic shock absorbers are not too firm and the braking by the four drums is hydraulically controlled. With a dry weight of only 600 kg on the scales and despite limited power, the top speed is 110 km/h. A meticulous and regular maintenance has been carried out on the car by the previous owner. The car is therefore ready to hit the road today.

EXTERIOR
It is the perfect example of pre-war sports car design, with timeless lines. Its backbone, long wings and slim grille are enhanced by the red color, of course. The bodywork is generally in very good condition and shows only minor traces, inevitable on a car used on the road.
The Cibié headlights and the rear lights have been modified according to the previous owner's taste, which suits the car perfectly. There are no traces of corrosion on the bodywork, the wheel arches or on the protected underbody. Note the location of the fuel filler cap behind the rider's head, which is typical of French-made versions.

INTERIOR
The extended cockpit offers a good amount of space for the rider despite the large metal steering wheel. On the dashboard, only useful information is displayed, including a rev counter, speedometer, temperature and oil pressure, all of which is fully functional. The upholstery has been completely professionally reworked, with the seat cushions, leather upholstery and carpets being refurbished, allowing the interior to look as good as new and as original.

CONSUMABLES
The Excelsior tyres dating from 2021 and measuring 4.50 x 17 each are in very good condition and do not require any change. The drum brakes are satisfactory and have been regularly serviced.

Please do not hesitate to contact us for further information and visits by appointment only.