1938 FIATBerlina 2.9L 4MT (85 HP)

Vehicle Overview

In the late ’30s, Fiat was pushed by the country’s ruler, Benito Mussolini, to create a luxurious car for the high-ranking officials, and the carmaker had to do that, resulting in the big Fiat 2800.

While the carmaker specialized in small vehicles, the Italian dictator tried to push it to create something bigger. Moreover, since Mussolini was a true petrolhead, driving fast on the country’s roads, he knew what a car could do or not. The carmaker didn’t have a choice and built a vehicle that suited the dictator’s desires: the Fiat 2800.

Available in a few shapes and sizes, with both closed or open tops, the Fiat 2800 lines were clearly inspired by some American vehicles. Yet, it sported a few Italian-specific lines, such as the tilted radiator grille with horizontal slats. The headlights were mounted between the arched wheel fenders and the V-shaped engine compartment. Moreover, the flat, tilted windshield was also something specific for the Italian brand. The door handles looked like they were carried over from other Fiat products, but they were mounted vertically instead of horizontally. Behind the cabin, the carmaker added a luggage compartment and a split windscreen.

Inside, the craftsmanship was performed with Italian wood veneers and expensive leather upholstery. Here, the carmaker took its inspiration from the boating industry, where the Italians mastered the art of cabins. Moreover, the three-spoke steering wheel and the bakelite switches were trustworthy. There were two wide seats at the front and a bench in the rear.

Under the hood, the carmaker installed an inline-six powerplant fed by a Zenith carburetor. It provided just a mere 85 PS (84 hp). The four-gear transmission sent the power to the rear wheels.