1931 FIAT 522 C 2.5

Vehicle Overview

The 522 model replaced the 521 in Fiat’s lineup in 1933, and it was available in three lengths: short ( C ), long ( L ), and Sport ( S ).

Fiat understood that using the same powertrain and a similar construction for the chassis, and it will decrease its production costs so, in 1933, it came with the idea of three vehicles based on the same platform. An idea which was used much later by other carmakers. While the L version (with a long wheelbase) and the S were more exclusive, the C was the most common version, addressed to the mass-market.

The C-version was also offered in a few body versions, varying from a regular sedan with four doors to an open-top convertible. By 1933, Fiat started to introduce a rakish windshield to reduce drag resistance. But, at the front, it still kept the same vertical radiator. Depending on the version, it featured headlights mounted on a bar or directly on the front wings. For the four-doors variants, the 522 C featured rear-hinged rear doors.

The interior was fitted according to the customers’ specifications, but most of them were fitted with high-quality materials. It wasn’t a Mercedes-Benz, but it already started to get into the attention of many car buyers across Europe. Unlike its German competitor, the Fiat was easier to drive and used the same materials for the upholstery and wood trims around the cabin.

Fiat offered the 522 C with only one engine choice. It paired it with a 4-speed manual gearbox, which was something rare for those times.