1973 Fiat 600 Jolly Custom Conversion
The Chattanooga Auction 2024
Chassis No. 3026467
This delightful 1973 Fiat Jolly, based on a Fiat 600 platform, has been meticulously converted and upgraded by Italian specialists, resulting in a vehicle that offers both the whimsical appeal of the original Ghia-designed "beach car" and vastly improved driving dynamics.
Powering this custom conversion is a specially-built 850 cc air-cooled two-cylinder engine, modified with an impressive array of high-performance parts by CAR Cave USA. Key powertrain upgrades include a custom camshaft, Weber 28 carburetor, Ergal roller rockers, Manton pushrods, CNC Custom rocker arms, increased-displacement cylinder and piston kit, and a copper head gasket. This potent powerplant is mated to a gated five-speed manual transmission, custom-built by renowned Italian transmission specialist D'Angelo, featuring an Abarth race shifter for precise gear changes. The result is a surprisingly torquey and responsive drivetrain, allowing this custom Jolly to comfortably cruise at speeds in excess of 70 miles-per-hour.
Aesthetically, this Jolly stays faithful to the Ghia-built originals with a beachy mint green finish that gleams under the Mediterranean sun. The iconic wicker seats have been faithfully recreated, complemented by a fringed surrey top that provides a spot of shade during temperate coastal drives. Chrome cockpit rails and color-coordinated steel wheels with polished hubcaps complete the authentic look. Practical touches include ample storage in the front compartment, housing a fuel tank, spare tire, and jack. The rear-mounted luggage rack wicker picnic basket adds another charming detail, perfectly embodying the car's sole purpose as practical leisure transport.
This Fiat Jolly 600 Conversion is a wonderfully restored and thoughtfully enhanced example of Fiat's legendary beach car. With its significantly upgraded powertrain, it promises not just to be a charming tribute, but a thrilling driver's car capable of spirited drives along coastal roads.