More famous in North America for small cars, Fiat has always produced a wide range of automobiles encompassing virtually every need. Its large “executive cars” were popular with Italian politicians during the 1960s, particularly the 2300, which featured a potent overhead-valve six-cylinder engine and, later, an automatic transmission. It was advanced, stylish, had fine handling and ride qualities, and was quite comfortable – everything that an Italian banker or senator required.

For the banker or senator who wanted to drive himself, in a style that Gianni Agnelli himself could appreciate, there was the svelte 2300 coupe. This limited-production coachbuilt model was styled by Sergio Sartorelli of Ghia and bore a striking resemblance to the ASA and Ferrari 250 GT of the same time period, with round headlights, a long hood, and an airy greenhouse. Power-operated windows, densely padded leather seats, and other cosseting comforts could be found within. The truly sporting 2300 S version boasted a more powerful engine, with two twin-choke Weber carburetors, and a standard four-speed transmission with 3.9:1 final drive, and was a true “driver’s car” with excellent performance.

The 2300 S offered here is one of very few of this model to have come to the United States, where they were not officially sold when new. Acquired in 2014 by a prominent collector and classic automotive museum owner, it underwent a two-year restoration that included stripping the body to bare metal, repairing it properly, and finishing it in a lustrous Blu Notte. The interior was restored as necessary, involving many new pieces; all of the chrome pieces were removed and re-plated, and new rubber seals for the door glass were installed. The brakes were disassembled, cleaned, and reassembled to work well, and the carburetors were rebuilt and properly tuned.

Fun to drive and likely a car its new owner will never see coming – even on the way to the local Italian car show – this Fiat 2300 S would be a delightful, charming, and powerful addition to any quality collection.