by Antonio Erario
The second lesson on the history of the automobile was held on Monday 10 November. Advanced Technician Course in the Restoration of Vintage Vehicles.
I had the pleasure of sharing with the participants the exclusive setting of the Restoration Atelier of the Schimmenti Car Body Shop in Santena (our friendly point). The historical period I covered spans the 1950s and 1960s. by 1950 to 1970, which coincides with the production of the Fiat 500.
We recounted the model's genesis, its various versions and variants, dissecting the details while framing the historical and social context of our country and Europe in general. From the N to the R, through the Abarth versions and their various records, continuing on to the Giannini and Steyr Puch sports cars. And again: the special versions with the Jolly Ghia, the Morettis, and the derivatives assembled abroad under Fiat license. We discussed the Giardiniera, all the way up to the Autobianchi version.
Talking about the world of the 500 means analyzing a cross-section of our habits and customs, human and personal stories linked to the twin-cylinder. Then the history of the Fiat 500 Club Italia and what this partnership represents in the global automotive, collecting, spare parts, and artisan landscape.
Being here is important for future generations, for those who will physically take care of our cars, for those who will pass on the message of automotive culture.
At the end of the lesson, we presented four variants of the 500 (D, F, L and R), highlighting the differences in the trim levels, the mechanical and technical modifications.
In addition to myself, three of our members spoke about their experiences, emotions and adventures in achieving a proper restoration; together with me and the my D in fact, in 1960 there were Duilio Romano with his F, Roberto Quarto with his L and Alberto Lo Gioco with the R version. All with enthusiasm and sharing, in the spirit that has always distinguished our members.
I had the pleasure of showing the kids a wealth of historical material, magazines, books, workshop and maintenance manuals, as well as color swatches provided by Lechler, a leading paint company.
Special thanks go to Duilio Nano, Roberto Quarto, and Alberto Lo Gioco for their availability.
The course was organized by InforCoop Epica Piemonte in collaboration with the MauTo National Automobile Museum, the Polytechnic of Turin, ITIS Pininfarina, Carrozzeria Schimmenti Classic of Santena and Carrozzeria Basile.
