1953 Fiat 8V Supersonic by Ghia Heads to RM Sotheby’s Monterey Auction

A rare 1953 Fiat 8V Supersonic, crafted by Ghia and once owned by renowned GM designer Henry S. Lauve, will be auctioned by RM Sotheby’s in Monterey, California, with an estimated value between $1,800,000 and $2,200,000 USD. This exquisite vehicle, one of only 14 Ghia Supersonics built on the Fiat 8V chassis, is a testament to mid-20th-century automotive design and innovation.

Henry S. Lauve, an influential designer under Harley Earl at General Motors, was the original owner of this Fiat 8V Supersonic. Lauve, who was instrumental in shaping the look of GM cars during the post-World War II era, chose this car for its advanced engineering and stunning design. The vehicle’s Jet Age bodywork by Giovanni Savonuzzi perfectly embodied the futuristic optimism of the 1950s, aligning with the cutting-edge designs Lauve worked on at GM.

The car was delivered new to Lauve in 1953, finished in a striking white exterior with a blue interior. Lauve, captivated by the Supersonic’s debut at the Paris Auto Show, arranged for its import to the United States. Correspondence from Ghia confirms the car’s journey aboard the SS Constitution and details the ongoing relationship between Lauve and the Italian coachbuilder.

The Fiat 8V Supersonic features an advanced overhead-valve light alloy V-8 engine, originally paired with a Siata-fabricated chassis and four-wheel independent suspension. This mechanical sophistication was enhanced by Ghia’s luxurious and aerodynamic bodywork, making the 8V not only a high-performance machine but also a visual masterpiece.

Despite its allure, Lauve’s Supersonic faced mechanical challenges early on, with engine issues arising after 9,000 kilometers of driving. Notably, Harley Earl, Lauve’s mentor, assisted in fitting a Chevrolet V-8 engine to replace the troublesome Fiat engine, highlighting the collaborative spirit within the automotive design community.

The Lauve family cherished the Supersonic until 1991, maintaining its unique heritage. Subsequent owners, including Erik Nielsen of California, further preserved and restored the car. A significant restoration saw the car repainted in a rich garnet over tan, with a correct Fiat 8V engine, number 000060, installed. This meticulous restoration emphasized the vehicle’s elegant curves and included exquisite details like smoked glass sun visors and Borrani chrome wire wheels.

The car’s post-restoration accolades include appearances at prestigious events such as the 2005 Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance and the 2015 Kuwait Concours d’Elegance. In 2023, it won the Design Award at the Audrain Newport Concours, judged by notable designers including Chip Foose.

The 1953 Fiat 8V Supersonic by Ghia stands out not only for its rarity and beauty but also for its historical significance. Accompanied by extensive documentation, including correspondence with Harley Earl and other automotive luminaries, this vehicle offers a unique glimpse into the intersection of American and European automotive design.

Collectors and enthusiasts have a rare opportunity to acquire this masterpiece at RM Sotheby’s Monterey auction. The Fiat 8V Supersonic represents the pinnacle of 1950s design innovation, making it a prized addition to any collection.

THE ANNUAL RETURN TO MONTEREY CAR WEEK, WHERE EXEMPLARY, REMARKABLE, AND RARE ARE THE RULE WITHOUT EXCEPTIONS

Fewer collaborations or duos as notable as, say, Laurel and Hardy, Schumacher and Ferrari, or even Mercedes-Benz and AMG grace our paths. But one dynamic duo continues its annual return to California’s Monterey Peninsula for its 27th year: Monterey Car Week and RM Sotheby’s Monterey Auction held on August 15-17.

2023’s auction brought the much-storied Lost and Found Collection, the ultimate barn find of 20 Ferraris lost to time, including the 1954 Ferrari Mondial Spider Series I by Pinin Farina, which as the second Mondial ever made, even in its stripped-down and fire-stricken condition, made waves in the automotive circles and press when it earned 1.875 million at auction.

Over the course of the 2023 Monterey Car Week, RM Sotheby’s sold five of the top 10 selling cars of the week– more than any other auction house on the peninsula. It further solidifies our commitment to bringing to market pristine and exemplary automobiles as the world’s leading auction house, during a week dedicated to showcasing the very best of the best. Find us again at the Monterey Conference Center for another year of exceptional offerings crossing the block.

AUCTION LOCATION

Monterey Conference Center
1 Portola Plaza
Monterey, CA 93940

PUBLIC PREVIEW

Admission to Public Preview is $60 per person for the weekend. Passes can be purchased onsite at the entrance to the plaza.

Admission to Public Preview is free for onsite bidders, consignors, and qualified media.