Project Description
Intermeccanica Italia Spyder
Intermeccanica Italia Spyder from the golden era of Italian Automobile production.
Price
€149,000Year
1968Mls/Kms
34,214 KilometersHistory
Intermeccanica is indeed a notable name among sports car enthusiasts and collectors, known for its unique blend of Italian design and American drivetrains. The company was founded in 1959 by Frank Reisner, a chemical engineer, and his wife, Paula. Their passion for sports cars and racing led them to establish Intermeccanica in Torino, Italy. Initially, the company focused on manufacturing aftermarket performance parts. In 1967, after a series of changes in ownership and engineering, the Reisners shifted their attention to producing the stunning Italia Spyder. This marked a significant turning point for the company. The first Italia Spyders were exported to the United States in 1968, including chassis number 58178314. The file reveals that in June 1988, ownership of this particular Intermeccanica Italia Spyder was transferred from Griffin Motor Co in Charlottesville, Virginia, to a Swiss individual named Herr W. von Schmieder, who was residing in Denton, Maryland, at the time. Subsequently, Herr Schmieder imported the car to his native Switzerland in January 2003. Tragically, Herr Schmieder passed away, and his collection of cars, including this Intermeccanica Italia Spyder, was put up for sale on behalf of his wife. The sale was handled by the renowned Swiss classic car dealer René Ruch. In 2005, this Intermeccanica Italia Spyder found a new home with a prominent German collector who has owned the car ever since. It has been regularly used and has held a current German Historical registration since 2009. This history file provides a fascinating glimpse into the journey of this specific Intermeccanica Italia Spyder, from its production in the late 1960s to its current ownership, highlighting its international travels and ownership history.
Exterior
The Intermeccanica Italia Spyder features a distinctive exterior design that can be traced back to its roots with contributions from notable automotive designers. The design foundation goes back to the Griffith 600 and was originally created by former General Motors (GM) designer Robert Cumberford. This design was later refined and revised by Franco Scaglione in Italy, adding an Italian touch to the aesthetics. The Spyder version of the Intermeccanica Italia was produced between 1968 and 1970, and it’s considered a rare find in the world of sports cars. While the exact production numbers may vary depending on your sources, it’s estimated that only around 200 Spyders were manufactured, adding to its uniqueness. The striking exterior is finished in a vibrant fire engine red colour (Code GR 4). It’s worth noting that the car was painted in the United States before being imported to Switzerland in 2003, likely by its discerning Swiss owner at the time. Despite the years that have passed, it’s evident that the car’s finish has been well-preserved, maintaining an overall equal shine. The car still retains its original beige soft top, as well as all the original studs and rear window. The preservation of these original features adding to the car’s historical and collector value. The design of the Intermeccanica Italia Spyder, with its distinctive side wing vents, pays homage to its Italian counterparts and the design influences of the era.
Interior
This Intermeccanica Italia Spyder appears to capture the essence of the 1960s, offering a snug and charming atmosphere. However, it’s worth noting that this car may not be the most comfortable option for those with long legs due to its compact interior dimensions. The beige carpeting and leather seats are well-preserved, which is a testament to the car’s very low 33,416 kilometers. There is, however, a somewhat crude repair to the driver’s door card. This repair could potentially benefit from more professional attention to enhance the overall interior quality and appearance. But it’s also kind of quirky! It’s interesting to note that some other brands have been imported with Maserati-style toggle switches and what appears to be MGB sun visors. The under-side of the roof and frame being in remarkable condition, along with the original leather tonneau cover, suggests that efforts have been made to maintain the car’s originality and preserve its original character. The presence of the prancing bear Intermeccanica logo on the kilometer tachometer and rev counter reinforces the car’s authenticity. The original wooden Momo steering wheel adds confirmation that we have a genuine surviving example. Overall, the interior of this Intermeccanica Italia Spyder appears to be a well-preserved and a charming representation of a 1960s sports car design.
Engine & Transmission
Under the front hinged bonnet, the Intermeccanica Italia Spyder houses a well-maintained engine setup featuring a Ford-supplied 351 cubic inch (ci) overhead valve (OHV) V8 engine (Serial: 1219-H24KT). This power-plant is equipped with four dual-throat Weber carburetors, delivering an estimated 300 brake horsepower (bhp) at 6,000 revolutions per minute (rpm). The engine is paired with a 4-speed manual transmission, a combination that provides the car with an abundance of power and torque. In fact, the car’s performance is so impressive that it’s possible to smoothly pull away from a standing start and accelerate in third gear. It also features front independent suspension and a live rear axle, contributing to its handling dynamics and overall driving experience. Notably, this specific car has enjoyed impeccable maintenance for the past 25 years, courtesy of a team of experts dedicated to ensuring its optimal performance. This meticulous care is a testament to the car’s condition and speaks to the level of commitment from its current German collector owner in preserving its mechanical excellence.
Wheels, Tyres & Brakes
The cars still features its original, light-weight alloy Cromodora wheels and prancing bull centre hub caps confirming the cars originality. Adorned with 195/70 R14 tyres showing plenty of good tread, the car brakes and pulls up well and straight.