Unveiling the Fiat Coupé: A Bold Statement in Automotive Design
When the Fiat Coupé made its debut, it was more than just a new car model – it was a statement. With proportions that were more arresting than elegant, the car featured superfluous, slash-like indentations above the wheel housings that set it apart from anything else on the road.
The design details of the Fiat Coupé were truly unique. From the double-blistered headlamp covers to the deep-recessed taillights, every element of the car was carefully crafted to make a bold impression. The aluminium flip-top fuel filler, aluminium key-fob, and the bold repeat of the car’s exterior color arcing across the dashboard all added to the car’s distinctive look.
But what made the Fiat Coupé truly groundbreaking was the fact that Fiat had previously stated they would no longer make pure sports cars. The arrival of this new model signaled a shift in direction for the company, with CEO Paolo Cantarella leading the charge.
With a background in business and a passion for cars, Cantarella saw the potential for the Fiat brand to shine once again. While smaller models like the Punto and Panda were selling well, the larger Tipos and Cromas were struggling. The Fiat Coupé was seen as a way to elevate the brand and attract a new audience.
The design process for the Fiat Coupé was a collaboration between Fiat Centro Stile and Pininfarina, with two very different proposals on the table. Pininfarina’s design was elegant and conventional, while Fiat’s in-house proposal was daring and outlandish.
In the end, Fiat chose to go with their own bold design, with Chris Bangle’s influence evident in every curve and angle of the car. While Pininfarina’s interior design was ultimately chosen for production, the spirit of Bangle’s daring exterior design remained intact.
The Fiat Coupé was more than just a car – it was a symbol of Fiat’s commitment to innovation and design. With its groundbreaking aesthetics and performance, it set the stage for a new era of sports cars from the Italian automaker.
