Debuted at the 1969 Geneva Motor Show, the Fiat 130 served as the top of the renowned Italian automaker’s line-up. Hidden underneath the sharp, attention-grabbing styling were such advanced features as a new overhead-camshaft V-6 engine based upon the 128 Type A powerplant and developed by the noted Ferrari engine master Aurelio Lampredi; standard power-assisted steering and four-wheel disc brakes; and Fiat’s first use of an alternator.

In 1971, Fiat returned to Geneva with a new 130 variant, the gorgeous Pininfarina-designed coupé, which proved even more striking than the original four-door saloon. The large coupé boasted an array of further luxury features, such as state-of-the-art fibre optic lighting for the instrument panel and switchgear, which are surrounded by imitation leather and fine wood. Just a hair under 4,300 of this model were produced, and as one of the most significant designs of the period, they were enjoyed by both executives and celebrities throughout Europe.

The 130 Coupé offered here has been part of the Quattroruote Collection in Milano since 1983, as is noted on its accompanying ASI paperwork and Italian registration documents; the collection is the second owner, the first having been a local fuel oil distributor. Finished in Grigio Scuro with a beautiful red cloth interior in excellent condition, it records only 66,041 kilometres at the time of cataloguing.

Good, solid original survivors of this rare coachbuilt model are difficult to find today, and the 130 Coupé is becoming increasingly more popular with collectors. This example deserves an excellent home.