FIAT 1900A ‘GRANLUCE’ 1956

Released in 1950 the FIAT 1400 was FIAT’s first unibody car and its first all-new post-war model. Sharing the same platform as the 1400, the FIAT 1900 was released in 1952 and production continued until 1959.

Hand-built by FIAT’s specialist coachbuilders, Reparto Carrozzerie Speciali the 1900 Granluce (“Grand Light”) was the top-of-the-line model in FIAT’s range sporting a stylish two-door hardtop body, clearly inspired by trans-Atlantic trends, and fitted with a 1901cc in-line four-cylinder engine and column-shift five-speed manual gearbox. A 1900 is also recorded as competing in the 1954 Mille Miglia (Mondiani/Giambertone/Gambaluccia) so is eligible for today’s Mille Miglia as well, an event for which the Granluce’s special transmission would be ideal.

The 1900A came standard with a fan-assisted fresh air heater-demister, electric wipers, three-band push-button wireless with winding aerial (activated by a winder in the driver’s footwell), twin horns, headlamp flasher, windscreen washers, tinted rear screen, integrated fog lights, reversing light and an anti-theft system which includes a transmission lock. Finned aluminium drum brakes at each wheel provide strong stopping power. The transmission uses a fluid flywheel system allowing clutchless driving, and the 0.815:1 fifth gear enables easy cruising. Only 1,104 1900A Granluce were built including a very few RHD versions such as this Australian-delivered car.

The trim is in fine condition while the original ‘jukebox’ dashboard and tortoiseshell bakelite steering wheel feature patina consistent with the car’s age and history. The 1901cc four-cylinder engine, five-speed fluid coupling manual transmission and drum brakes have all been overhauled, including rebuilt water and fuel pumps.

Representing excellent value this Granluce comes with its original keys, Fiat Heritage certificate, original FIAT workshop manual and a period FIAT 1900A sales brochure.