The allure of Italian sportscars from the '50s is undeniable, and the 1953 Siata 208 CS with Balbo bodywork is a prime example.
Siata is an acronym for Società Italiana Auto Trasformazione Accessori, the Turin-based firm founded in 1926 by Giorgio Ambrosini, and which soldiered on under the family until closing its doors in 1970. Like Abarth, Siata manufactured performance parts for Fiat, especially as motorsports in Europe and the Americas gained popularity after World War II.
Fiat, meanwhile, had developed a 2.0-liter V-8 engine for a luxury sports car, the Otto Vu , under the aegis of Siata engineer Rudolf Hruska. The high-revving, OHV, all-aluminum engine held promise, making more than 125 hp at 6,000 rpm. That output enabled the car to have a top speed of 125 mph. A four-speed manual gearbox, independent coil suspension, finned alloy drum brakes, and a tube-frame chassis contributed to the model’s competitive personality on road and track.
The matching-numbers 2.0-liter V-8 engine makes more than 125 hp and enables the vehicle to reach 125 mph.The engine, called the Tipo 104, was more successful in concept than reality, though, with only about 200 units made, about 114 of which found their way into Fiat’s 8V, itself produced with a variety of bodies. The remaining mills went to Siata, and thus,was born.
During an extensive restoration, the original interior aesthetic—including the tan leather upholstery—was replicated.Formerly owned by Charles Betz before becoming a part of Peter Kaus’ Rosso Bianco Collection, the classic coupe eventually came under the stewardship of Tim Walker, who had it comprehensively restored to concours standards during the 2010s.
Interior volume notwithstanding, this impeccable and authentic Siata is eligible for exclusive tours like the Mille Miglia, where it’s as certain to draw a crowd as on the greenest concours lawn. A car that should see some spirited bidding through RM Sotheby’s duringfor more photos of this 1953 Siata 208 CS coupe being auctioned by RM Sotheby’s.Jasen Delgado, courtesy of RM Sotheby’s.
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