Very rare and well documented 1928 Fiat 509A Torpedo with interesting provenance. According to Fiat factory production records it was originally shipped to Algiers for a David W. Mize the AMIDEAST/ EGYPT Country Director in the late 20’s and early 30’s. It remained in the middle east until it was purchased by an American Physician Dr. Terry Bennett while working there in the early 1960’s. Upon his return to the US this car along with several others were shipped to his home in New Hampshire. In 1968 Mr. Klaus Steinbrueck also of New Hampshire purchased the car and placed it into storage until Mr. David LeBlanc purchased the Fiat 509A in 2013. At that point still in original untouched condition a nut and bolt restoration was started. Now after Mr. LeBlanc’s passing the car is being offered for sale by his family. To date the following items have been addressed.
The motor rebuild is nearly complete with the crank shaft being turned and installed, the block line bored, babbitt bearings poured and machined, new pistons and rings also installed, oil pump rebuilt, flywheel re-surfaced and clutch rebuilt. Essentially the short block is complete and the head and valve work remains to finish the motor. The frame has been restored and the wheels painted with new correct vintage style tires installed. The radiator and carburetor were both professionally rebuilt with receipts of over $3,000 for just those two items alone. All parts were meticulously bagged and labeled during the disassembly.
What remains is partial wood work with all original pieces in tact to use as templates, sand blasting of fenders and body tub which are very solid. Then, paint, interior and soft top fabrication and wiring. With nearly $20,000 invested thus far the family realizes that a realistic sale price of the car will bring significantly less then what has been invested so far. It is however very important to them that the car be placed in the hands of someone who is both enthusiastic and capable of completing the restoration of this unique automobile. Receipts, documents and service manuals included in the sale. For all inquiries please contact Clarke Taylor at Historic Motor Sports 603-587-0577.