1960 Autobianchi Bianchina Trasformabile – 11k Miles, Recent Cosmetic Restoration

🔑 Key Details

• Model: Bianchina Trasformabile
• Year: 1960
• Condition: Used
• Mileage: 11,220 (from new, indicated)
• No. of Owners: (not specified; long time in a private collection)
• Color: Navy Blue (original color, recently repainted)
• Fuel Type: Gasoline
• Engine Size: 479cc air‑cooled two‑cylinder (approx. 16–17 hp)
• Transmission: 4‑Speed Manual
• Drive: (not specified)
• Seller Type: Personal

🧰 Description Overview

This 1960 Autobianchi Bianchina Trasformabile is a charming example of one of the most distinctive microcars of the postwar era, showing just 11,220 miles from new and benefitting from a recent cosmetic restoration. Built on Fiat 500 mechanical underpinnings but styled and positioned as a more upscale, “fashionable” alternative, the Bianchina Trasformabile captures the spirit of la dolce vita in a compact, highly collectible package.

Powered by a 479cc air‑cooled two‑cylinder engine rated at approximately 16–17 hp and paired with a 4‑speed manual transmission, the Bianchina shares its running gear with the Fiat 500. This proven drivetrain delivers modest but eager performance, excellent fuel economy, and straightforward serviceability. The “Trasformabile” (transformable) body style features a landaulet‑style fabric convertible roof, offering an open‑air driving experience that suits its Riviera‑ready character.

The model’s origins date to a mid‑1950s collaboration among Fiat, Pirelli, and bicycle maker Bianchi, with Autobianchi tasked with turning the everyman’s Fiat 500 platform into a higher‑style urban runabout. Period advertising dubbed it “La piccola vettura di grande classe” (“the little car with immense class”), and the Bianchina delivered: introduced in 1957, it combined Luigi Rapi’s elegant lines with luxurious touches reminiscent of more expensive Lancias and Alfa Romeos. Approximately 10,000 first‑series Trasformabile models were sold between 1957 and 1962, cementing its success.

This particular car, spent most of its life in a private Italian collection and was long preserved as a solid survivor before receiving more extensive attention. It has since undergone significant mechanical and cosmetic restoration, with professional repainting in its original, desirable Navy Blue. The seats, bumpers, mirrors, and side trim have all been recently refreshed, giving the car a crisp, well‑finished appearance that still respects its original character.

A highlight of this example is its set of original Borrani wire wheels—an especially evocative detail, as similar wheels graced legendary Italian sports cars such as the Ferrari 250, 275, and 330. Combined with the petite Bianchina body and landaulet roof, they lend the car an outsized sense of style and presence.

With low indicated miles, correct color, recent restoration work, and its charming history as a “little car of great class,” this Bianchina Trasformabile represents a delightful opportunity for microcar enthusiasts and collectors of distinctive Italian coachbuilt machinery.

⚙️ Features & Highlights

• 1960 Autobianchi Bianchina Trasformabile
• 11,220 miles from new (indicated)
• 479cc air‑cooled two‑cylinder engine (approx. 16–17 hp)
• 4‑speed manual transmission
• Landaulet‑style fabric convertible roof
• Built on Fiat 500 mechanicals for reliability and economy
• First‑series Trasformabile (part of ~10,000 units built 1957–62)
• Original, desirable Navy Blue exterior – professionally repainted
• Recently refreshed seats, bumpers, mirrors, and side trim
• Original Borrani wire wheels, as seen on notable Italian sports cars
• Long‑term survivor from private collection prior to restoration
• Recent mechanical and cosmetic restoration, presenting strongly today

🏁 Summary

A low‑mile 1960 Autobianchi Bianchina Trasformabile in its original Navy Blue, with 11,220 miles indicated, a 479cc air‑cooled twin, 4‑speed manual, and a recent cosmetic restoration. Retaining its original Borrani wire wheels and charming landaulet roof, this elegantly restored microcar offers an irresistible blend of Italian style, historical significance, and collectible appeal.