FIAT 508 S SPORT – 1935

Sport Body Rebuilt in the 1970s – ASI Gold Plate Certification No. 0932 (1980)

Technical Data

Make: FIAT
Model: 508 S Sport
Year: 1935
Chassis No.: 508.S.072375
Engine No.: 108.S.1160
Displacement: 995 cc
Valve Train: Overhead Valves (OHV)
Interior: Red
Exterior Trim: Brown Leather
Soft Top: Black
Certification: ASI Gold Plate Certification No. 0932 dated August 30, 1980

Historical Background

The Fiat 508 S is one of the most desirable sporting derivatives of the famous Fiat 508 “Balilla”, the model that played a major role in the motorization of Italy during the 1930s. The Sport version was developed for customers seeking greater performance and a more dynamic appearance than the standard production models.

The present example was first registered on April 13th, 1935. Originally fitted with a different body style, it was subsequently rebodied, most likely during the 1960s or 1970s, in the style of the Fiat 508 S Sport.

The body reconstruction was therefore carried out approximately sixty years ago and has become an integral part of the car’s documented history. As a result, the vehicle is now fully historicized and has been recognized within the historic vehicle community for several decades.

The automobile is accompanied by an official historical registration extract (Estratto Cronologico), documenting its entire ownership and registration history throughout its lifetime.

Important ASI Certification

On August 30th, 1980, this automobile received one of the earliest certifications issued by the Italian Historic Vehicle Association (ASI), obtaining the prestigious ASI Gold Plate Certification No. 0932.

Within the certification records, the car was classified as a “Good Reconstruction”, a particularly significant recognition considering the strict standards applied by ASI at that time.

The exceptionally low certification number further highlights the historical importance of this approval and demonstrates the early recognition of the vehicle’s collector value.

Participation in Historic Events

Throughout its life, the car has participated in numerous historic rallies, exhibitions and vintage motoring events.

Its participation is evidenced by the many original sealed event tags (“piombini”) still attached to the steering column, serving as authentic testimony to its long-standing presence within the historic motoring community.

Such details are highly appreciated by collectors, as they contribute to documenting the vehicle’s continuous historical activity.

Equipment and Features

The 1980 ASI certification noted the absence of a soft top. The car is now fitted with a black convertible top, which was evidently installed after the certification process.

Current configuration includes:

• Fiat 508 S-style sporting bodywork;
• Brown leather exterior trim;
• Red interior;
• Black soft top;
• Period-correct sporting layout and instrumentation;
• Historic event participation seals.

Technical Characteristics of the Fiat 508 S

The Fiat 508 S Sport was mechanically derived from the renowned Balilla but featured a more performance-oriented specification.

Main technical features include:

• Fiat Type 108 S inline four-cylinder engine;
• 995 cc displacement;
• Overhead valve (OHV) configuration;
• Water cooling system;
• Four-speed manual gearbox;
• Rear-wheel drive;
• Steel ladder-frame chassis;
• Rigid axle suspension with leaf springs;
• Lightweight sporting construction.

Combining low weight, mechanical reliability and lively performance, the Fiat 508 S became one of the most appreciated Italian sports cars of the mid-1930s.

Collectors’ Interest

Original Fiat 508 Sport models are today exceptionally rare and highly sought after in the international pre-war collector car market.

This example offers a particularly interesting and fully documented history:

• First registration in 1935;
• Sport body reconstruction during the 1960s/1970s;
• More than sixty years of documented historic existence in its current configuration;
• One of the earliest ASI Gold Plate certifications ever issued;
• Extensive participation in historic motoring events;
• Consistent and continuous historical documentation.

Thanks to its long-established historical identity and documented provenance, the car is eligible for participation in most pre-war and classic historic vehicle events.

However, due to the body reconstruction carried out during its lifetime, the vehicle is not eligible for entry into the Mille Miglia retrospective event.