Description

1960 Autobianchi Bianchina Trasformabile – Restored Microcar with 479cc Engine & 4-Speed

This 1960 Autobianchi Bianchina Trasformabile is a charming and well-preserved example of one of Italy’s most stylish microcars. Benefiting from a recent cosmetic restoration and remaining mechanically strong and road-ready, this example embodies the playful elegance that made the Bianchina a standout among Fiat-based variants. Power comes from a 479cc air-cooled two-cylinder engine mated to a 4-speed manual transmission, with a claimed 16–17 horsepower output and impressive efficiency. This car presents in its original Navy Blue paint and features a landaulet-style fabric roof, chrome trim, original Borrani wire wheels, and classic Italian flair throughout.

Key Information

• Model: Bianchina Trasformabile

• Year: 1960

• Engine: 479cc Air-Cooled 2-Cylinder

• Transmission: 4-Speed Manual

• Drive: Rear-Wheel Drive

• Color: Navy Blue (Repainted in Original Shade)

• Interior: Refreshed Black & White Vinyl Upholstery

• Mileage: 11,220 Miles

• Owners: 2 Known

• Wheels: Borrani Wire Wheels

• Condition: Restored (Cosmetic & Mechanical)

• Fuel Type: Gasoline

Overview

Introduced in 1957, the Autobianchi Bianchina was created as a fashionable reinterpretation of the Fiat 500—designed to offer style, flair, and a hint of luxury to urban Italian buyers. Marketed as “La piccola vettura di grande classe” (the little car with immense class), the Bianchina stood out with upscale features, bespoke styling by Luigi Rapi, and a distinctive landaulet-style folding roof. It was more than just a car—it was a statement of Italian lifestyle, combining modest mechanicals with refined design.

The Trasformabile was the most evocative variant, blending microcar dimensions with convertible practicality. Though it shared its underpinnings with the Fiat 500—including the 479cc two-cylinder engine—it received unique coachwork, chrome accents, and bespoke trim that elevated it above its city car roots.

Exterior

This example has been repainted in its original Navy Blue, a color that emphasizes the car’s retro elegance and compact proportions. The body presents in excellent condition, with refinished bumpers, mirrors, and side trim, all restored to factory-correct spec. The landaulet fabric top functions properly, folding back to reveal a truly open-air experience reminiscent of 1960s Italian Riviera cruising.

The car rides on original Borrani wire wheels, a rare feature that connects it aesthetically to far more exotic Italian marques like Ferrari and Alfa Romeo. Chrome hubcaps and fresh tires complete the exterior’s show-worthy presentation.

Interior

Inside, the Bianchina maintains its minimalist charm, enhanced with refreshed upholstery and restored seating surfaces. The dashboard, door panels, and trim remain faithful to original design. A small-diameter two-spoke steering wheel fronts a single gauge cluster, and the floor-mounted shifter operates the 4-speed manual transmission with ease.

Though spartan by modern standards, the cabin is filled with period-correct detail, from the toggle switches to the stitched seat pattern. It’s a reminder that automotive joy can come from simplicity, not excess.

Mechanical

The rear-mounted 479cc air-cooled engine remains in mechanically strong condition, having received extensive servicing in recent years. Originally rated at around 16 horsepower, the engine pairs with a 4-speed manual gearbox and is capable of achieving over 50 mpg in urban conditions. The mechanicals remain faithful to Fiat’s proven design while contributing to Autobianchi’s upscale feel.

This drivetrain was a key part of the Bianchina’s appeal—it offered just enough power for spirited city driving while being exceptionally easy and affordable to maintain.

Restoration & History

Chassis #6726 spent most of its life as part of a private collection and remained well-preserved prior to its cosmetic and mechanical refurbishment. The restoration included a full repaint, interior refresh, detailing of the trim and brightwork, and mechanical inspection. It has been maintained with an eye toward originality, with thoughtful updates that retain the character of the car while ensuring reliability.

The result is a microcar that is both aesthetically striking and mechanically sorted, ready for display or weekend cruising.

Summary

Quintessentially Italian in every way, the Autobianchi Bianchina Trasformabile is a compact icon that radiates joy, character, and style. With its unmistakable design, vibrant presence, and cult following, this 1960 example is a rare opportunity to own a thoughtfully restored slice of mid-century Italian culture. Whether for concours, rallies, or just soaking in admiration on a sunny boulevard, this Bianchina offers a driving and ownership experience that goes far beyond its size.

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