The end of World War II heralded a period of immense change and innovation in the automotive industry. While the American market boomed with flamboyant, space-age designs featuring tailfins and vibrant two-tone paint jobs, European manufacturers were eager to capture this dynamic spirit. This fusion of American and Italian automotive design, known as Stile Transatlantico, saw the creation of some of the most iconic cars of the era.
Among the notable examples of this style is the 1955 Abarth 208 A Spyder by Boano. Born out of Abarth’s desire to make a significant impact both in Italy and abroad, the 208 A embodies the essence of Stile Transatlantico. This one-off creation, designed by Giovanni Michelotti for Boano, combines the best elements of American flamboyance with Italian engineering prowess.
Featuring an ultra-light chassis and a punchy 1,089 cc four-cylinder engine from the Fiat 1100, the 208 A Spyder offers both elegance and performance. With a tuning kit that includes twin-Weber carburettors and a custom exhaust header, the engine produces 66 bhp, providing a thrilling driving experience.
The 208 A was imported to the United States by Tony Pompeo in New York City, a distributor for Abarth and other Italian marques in the 1950s. It was acquired by two brothers from the Du Pont family, known for their passion for motor racing. After some years, the car was sold to Bill Hale, who cherished it and maintained it with care, even enduring a memorable drive from Long Island to Maine through torrential downpour.
In the early 2000s, the car was rediscovered by Etceterini collector Elad Shraga, who was captivated by its originality. The 208 A Spyder was restored to its former glory, with careful repairs and preservation of its unique features. Recently, it received a bare-metal repaint in its original colors, carried out to concours-level conditions under the supervision of Corrado Lopresto and his team in Italy.
Now available for €795,000 EUR, this Abarth 208 A Spyder is a rare and significant piece of automotive history. It represents a pinnacle of Stile Transatlantico and remains a captivating example of Abarth’s early achievements. Whether for a collector or an enthusiast, this Spyder is a true icon and a worthy addition to any prestigious collection.
Source: RM Sotheby’s private sales sector
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