Results 1 to 1 of 1

Thread: Autobianchi Bianchina 500 Cabriolet Eden Roc

  1. #1
    Join Date
    Apr 2003
    Location
    Rozenburg, Holland
    Posts
    27,329

    Autobianchi Bianchina 500 Cabriolet Eden Roc

    The Bianchi company already started car production in 1899, but after WWII the marque disappeared. As the prestige of the marque was still relatively high, Fiat together with Pirelli resurrected the brand in 1955 and in 1957 the first product was launched, the Bianchina 500 Coupe, based on the just launched Fiat 500, but offered as a real two seater only, and fitted with a folding roof. There were two engine options, either 479 cc, producing 16 BHP or 499 cc, giving a whopping 21 BHP. Top speed ranged from 95 to 105 kph.
    In 1960 a second version appeared, a full cabriolet, which was nicknamed Eden Roc in France, and it was indeed a very popular car in the Mediterranean tourist areas. The car also became famous as Inspector Clouseau’s vehicle in the original Pink Panther movie. It was only available with the 21 BHP engine.
    Two more versions appeared later on, the 500 Panoramica in 1960, a break version, which became by far the most popular with over 160,000 produced, and finally in 1962 a coach appeared, with a rear seating opportunity. (to call it a 4 seater is a bit over-asking). Nevertheless, also of this model 69,000 were sold.

    The cabriolet stayed in production until 1969 and in total 9300 were made.

    Today remaining examples of original cabriolet are scarce, and in high demand. The car shown here was on offer at 2006 Bonhams Auction at the Quail Lodge. Also shown here is 1960 version of the folding roof coupe (“Transformabile”), which RM offered on their 2006 Monterey auction. The Bonham car sold for 20,000 US$ (excluding premiums) while the less rare RM car (one of 35,500) fetched an amazing USD$ 39,600.
    Attached Images Attached Images
    "I find the whole business of religion profoundly interesting, but it does mystify me that otherwise intelligent people take it seriously." Douglas Adams

Thread Information

Users Browsing this Thread

There are currently 1 users browsing this thread. (0 members and 1 guests)

Similar Threads

  1. Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class (C209/A209) 2002-2010
    By McLareN in forum Matt's Hi-Res Hide-Out
    Replies: 12
    Last Post: 06-25-2005, 09:40 PM

Posting Permissions

  • You may not post new threads
  • You may not post replies
  • You may not post attachments
  • You may not edit your posts
  •