A rare and historically significant 1955 Abarth 208 A Spyder by Boano is now available for auction. This one-off masterpiece, designed by Giovanni Michelotti for Boano, represents the epitome of Stile Transatlantico, a unique blend of American and Italian automotive design influences.
This particular 208 A Spyder is exceptionally well-preserved, having been kept in storage for decades before being professionally repainted. It comes with an Abarth Classiche Certificato di Autenticità, further solidifying its provenance and historical importance.
The post-World War II era saw significant advancements in automotive design and engineering. Influenced by the American market’s flamboyant style and the ongoing Space Race, many European manufacturers sought to incorporate these elements into their designs. Abarth, founded in 1949, aimed to make a mark by creating a small run of cars that exemplified the best of Stile Transatlantico. The 208 A Spyder, along with the racing-oriented 207 A and the coupé 209 A, were part of this endeavor. The 208 A Spyder remains a one-off, as does the 209 A, while only 10 examples of the 207 A were built.
Mechanically, the 208 A Spyder carries over much from the Fiat 1100, including its 1,089 cc four-cylinder engine, enhanced with Abarth’s tuning kit to produce 66 bhp. The car’s lightweight chassis and precise handling made it a true driver’s machine.
This 208 A Spyder was imported to the United States by Tony Pompeo for the Du Pont family, known for their chemical fortune and passion for motor racing. The car was well-loved and later passed on to Bill Hale, an aircraft mechanic, who kept it for many years. Hale’s memories include a memorable drive from Long Island to Maine in torrential rain, showcasing the car’s adventurous history.
After being hidden from public view for many years, the car was rediscovered in 2007 by collector Elad Shraga, who preserved its originality while restoring it to running condition. The Abarth 208 A was shown once at the Amelia Island Concours d’Elegance in 2013, reflecting its rarity and charm.
Recently, the car received a bare-metal repaint in its original colors by Corrado Lopresto and his team in Italy, costing over €30,000. This restoration was carried out to concours-level conditions, ensuring the car’s aesthetic and mechanical excellence.
The 1955 Abarth 208 A Spyder by Boano is a significant piece of automotive history, embodying the innovative spirit of its era. Its rarity, design, and historical significance make it a valuable addition to any collection.