Fiat Autók, or Fiat cars, have a rich history dating back to 1900. The Italian automaker quickly gained recognition for its innovative engineering and by 1910, became Italy’s largest car manufacturer, even establishing a plant in Poughkeepsie, New York. Owning a Fiat automobile in the early 20th century symbolized prestige, as the company was a leading importer of chassis to the U.S. These chassis were then outfitted with custom coach-built bodies according to the buyer’s specifications.
One such example of Fiat’s early automotive excellence is the 1911 Fiat Tipo 6, a rare and remarkable vehicle. Believed to be one of only 28 ever produced, this particular Tipo 6 reportedly cost $10,000 new – a staggering $265,000 in today’s currency. This price tag reflects the high-quality craftsmanship and bespoke nature of early Fiat autók. The Tipo 6 featured a front engine, rear-wheel-drive configuration, powered by a substantial 9,026 CC side-valve inline 4-cylinder engine with a single Fiat in-block tubular carburetor. This engine produced 75 HP at 1,000 RPM, coupled with a 4-speed manual gearbox and double-side chain drive. Braking was achieved through a water-cooled service transmission brake and a rear-wheel hand brake.
In 1910, William Wallace commissioned the Hulme piano company in Boston to construct a unique, angular wood and aluminum body for the Tipo 6 chassis to compete in the 1911 Vanderbilt Cup. This racing body was later replaced with a Simplex touring body.
This specific 1911 Fiat Tipo 6 retains many original features and accessories, showcasing the meticulous preservation of this piece of Fiat autók history. These include the original tool kit, a functioning Warner 100 mph combination speedometer/clock, a Nonpareil triple-twist bulb horn, an authentic brass boa constrictor bulb horn, and period-correct Badger Brass Solarclipse headlamps and carriage lamps, each bearing the appropriate date code. These details underscore the historical significance and collector value of this rare example of Fiat autók heritage.
