Using Fiat’s Otto Vù engine and chassis with a unique coupe body, this was Siata’s answer to events like the Mille Miglia. Before the 208CS, Societa Italianà Applicazioni Techniche Automobilistiche had built up quite a reputation building racing parts for Fiat and even making whole new cars from Fiat components. When Fiat’s, Otto Vù (8V) came it was a natural choice for a Siata’s new car.

Fiat used Siata to help develop the Otto Vù prototypes. They were centered around a unique 70 degree engine designed by Dante Giacosa. After those were finished, Siata hired Rudolph Hruska to make their own chassis around the Otto Vù engine. The resulting chassis was shorter and used a short drive shaft. Six to ten of these chassis were built, which used curved chassis rails. The arrangement allowed for an especially low driving position and low overall height.

The first car, chassis CS052, was prepared for the upcoming Torino Auto Show. Stabilimenti Farina designed and executed the body which was exceptionally low. The design used retractable headlights, a wrap around windshield and small side windows. In 1953 Stabilimenti Farina closed so Balbo completed the subsequent Coupes to the same design.

The car debuted at the Turin Auto Show in April. Not long thereafter, three identical Coupes entered the Mille Miglia. Two retired, but the remaining car driven by Franco Rol and Gino Munaron finished 11th overall, behind the Ferrari and Lancia in the same class.

In Detail