The Abarth 750 Spider Zagato is one of the rarest and most charming sports cars to emerge from Italy during the late 1950s. Produced between 1957 and 1959, it combined Carlo Abarth’s race-inspired engineering with Zagato’s lightweight coachbuilding expertise to create an open two-seater that delivered sparkling performance from a tiny 747 cc engine. While the famous “Double Bubble” coupé has become the better-known model, the Spider is considerably rarer and is highly prized by collectors seeking something truly distinctive.
The first consideration for any prospective buyer is authenticity. Production numbers were extremely limited, and surviving examples are far less common than the Zagato coupé. Over the years, some coupés have been converted into open cars, while others have been reconstructed using period Fiat 600 components. Before committing to a purchase, verify the chassis number, engine number and coachbuilder details against recognised Abarth records. A car with documented provenance, period photographs and continuous ownership history will always command a substantial premium.
The bodywork deserves meticulous inspection. Zagato’s lightweight aluminium construction was central to the Spider’s excellent performance, but it also makes repairs both difficult and expensive. Examine the body for evidence of accident damage, excessive filler, poorly aligned panels and corrosion where the aluminium body meets the steel floorpan. Because each body was largely hand-built, replacement panels are virtually impossible to source, meaning restoration often requires skilled coachbuilders capable of fabricating new sections by hand.
The folding hood and weather equipment also deserve attention. Unlike modern convertibles, the Spider’s hood was intended primarily as emergency weather protection rather than everyday use. Check the hood frame for damage, inspect the fabric for tears and ensure that all fasteners remain present. Missing or incorrect hood components can be difficult to replace, while original side screens are particularly scarce.
Mechanically, the Spider is based on the Fiat 600 platform but benefits from extensive Abarth modifications. The 747 cc four-cylinder engine features increased compression, revised carburation and Abarth’s renowned free-flowing exhaust system, producing around 43 bhp in standard form. Combined with a kerb weight of little more than 500 kg, performance is surprisingly lively even by modern standards.
Although mechanically straightforward, the engine requires specialist care. Check for healthy oil pressure, smooth carburettor operation and evidence of regular servicing. Overheating can occur if the cooling system has been neglected, so inspect the radiator, water pump and hoses carefully. Engines that have stood unused for many years often require complete recommissioning before they can be driven reliably.
The four-speed manual gearbox should provide light, positive gear changes. Synchromesh wear, noisy bearings and oil leaks are common on cars that have covered significant mileage or seen competition use. Fortunately, many transmission components share their origins with the Fiat 600, making mechanical restoration more straightforward than repairing the unique coachwork.
Suspension and braking systems should also be examined carefully. The Spider’s low weight means handling is agile and responsive, but worn kingpins, suspension bushes and steering joints can quickly spoil the driving experience. Drum brakes are entirely adequate when properly maintained, although buyers should expect longer stopping distances than in more modern classics.
One of the greatest challenges of ownership is sourcing parts. Routine mechanical items remain available through Fiat and Abarth specialists, but unique Zagato components—including body panels, trim, windscreen frames and interior fittings—are exceptionally difficult to obtain. Before purchasing a restoration project, ensure that all major components are present, as replacing missing parts may require bespoke fabrication.
For UK buyers, specialist classic car insurance with agreed-value cover is essential. Given the rarity of the model, professional valuations should be updated regularly, while secure, dry storage will help preserve both the aluminium body and the car’s long-term value. Many owners also choose to participate in historic rallies and concours events, where the Spider’s rarity invariably attracts considerable attention.
The market for the Abarth 750 Spider Zagato remains exceptionally strong. Genuine examples rarely appear for sale, and when they do, collectors place enormous emphasis on originality, documented provenance and matching numbers. Cars retaining their original engine, body and period specification consistently achieve the highest values.
For enthusiasts seeking one of the most characterful small-capacity Italian sports cars of the 1950s, the Abarth 750 Spider Zagato is an outstanding choice. It combines Zagato’s timeless styling with Carlo Abarth’s remarkable ability to extract exhilarating performance from modest mechanicals. Beautiful to look at, rewarding to drive and exceptionally rare, it remains one of the most desirable coachbuilt Abarths ever produced.