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Fiat Simca Sport

This Fiat Simca racing car (chassis number 01213349) with a 1,089 cc four-cylinder engine is based on the Simca 8, a popular four-seater in France that was in production from 1937 to 1951

Simca (Société Industrielle de Mécanique et de Carrosserie Automobile) was founded in 1934 by Enrico Teodoro Pigozzi, who later changed his first name to Henri Theodore, and was initially nothing more than a French subsidiary of the Italian Fiat. Simca built affordable Fiats under licence in order to avoid the high import duties of the time.
squadra collection fiat simca sport 1937 front

Simca 8: The Basis for Racing Cars and Innovations by Amédée Gordini

The standard Simca 8, recognisable by its distinctive radiator grille, was a slightly modified version of the Fiat 1100 ‘508C Nuova Balilla’. This Fiat and its Simca 8 counterpart were an interesting foundation for developing a racing car due to their reliability and some progressive features for the time. For example, the front suspension was fully independent, and the steering mechanism was reputed for its precise feel. The rear suspension used a more traditional setup with a solid axle and leaf springs. Exceptional for its time—particularly for a relatively inexpensive car—was the aluminium cylinder head with dual valve springs and overhead valves operated via pushrods and rocker arms by a side-mounted camshaft. The powertrain included a four-speed gearbox, with the top two gears being synchronised. The Simca 8 was used by various tuners to develop race versions, one of whom was the Italian-born, later naturalised Frenchman Amédée (originally Amedeo) Gordini.

Fiat Simca Barchetta Sport: A Lightweight Racer with Character

The Fiat Simca Barchetta Sport in the museum is one of many racing cars based on the Simca 8 or Fiat 1100. Its bodywork is entirely aluminium and of the ‘torpedo’ type, characterised by so-called ‘cycle wings’—fenders that follow the contours of the wheels. Thanks to its lightweight construction, this car tips the scales at just 400 kilograms. The four-cylinder engine (type 112, number 0042) is fed by two single Weber carburettors and delivers 70 hp. In combination with its limited weight, this Fiat Simca emerges as a spirited two-seater.

 squadra collection fiat simca sport 1937 engine
squadra collection fiat simca sport 1937 interior

Unknown History: The Fiat Simca Barchetta Sport in the Museum

So far, it has not been possible to uncover the complete history of the example in the museum. The car resurfaced in Austria in the early 2000s, where it was regularly registered. It was later imported into Italy by its most recent owner, who also commissioned a minor restoration.

A Second Life: Rallies and Recognition for the Fiat Simca Barchetta Sport

In July 2010, it was re-registered with its current number plate. Since then, the car has participated in numerous rallies, re-enactments and circuit races, consistently drawing admiration. The vehicle has ASI (Automotoclub Storico Italiano) certification and is listed in the Italian Fiat Register.

 squadra collection simca abarth 1300 corsa front

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