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Topic starter
20/02/2026 11:19 am
The 1952 Siata Daina Gran Sport is a rare, lightweight Italian sports car often nicknamed the "Baby Ferrari" due to its performance and styling. Built by SIATA (Società Italiana Auto Trasformazioni Accessori), it was the company's largest model and was designed for both competitive racing and elegant touring.
Key Specifications & Features
- Chassis & Mechanics: Based on a modified and shortened Fiat 1400 frame. It featured a standard four-speed manual transmission, though some units received a custom Siata five-speed box.
- Engine: Powered by a Siata-tuned Fiat 1,395 cc (or 1,480 cc) overhead-valve inline four-cylinder engine. Equipped with dual Weber carburetors, it produced approximately 65 to 75 hp.
- Bodywork: Most examples featured coachwork by Stabilimenti Farina, typically consisting of a steel body with an aluminum hood, doors, and trunk. After Stabilimenti Farina closed in 1953, production shifted to Bertone.
- Rarity: Total production of the Daina series (including coupes and convertibles) was roughly 200–250 units, but it is estimated that fewer than 50 (some sources say as few as 30) were the Gran Sport variant.
RM Sotheby's +7
Historical Significance
- Racing Pedigree: The car was highly competitive in events like the Mille Miglia and the 12 Hours of Sebring. Today, surviving examples remain eligible for prestigious historic racing events like the Mille Miglia Storica.
- Collectibility: Due to its rarity and hand-built nature, authentic examples are highly sought after. At auction, well-preserved or restored models can sell for €250,000 to over $350,000.
John Bono
North Jersey
20/02/2026 11:36 am
Oh yes; I remember these and the fact that they were called "Baby Ferrari's". They did well in Mille Miglia (1000 mile) races.
The one in your link John, is dynamite gorgeous:
THANKS for this latest installment John!
John Bono and Ed Glorius reacted
20/02/2026 12:19 pm
Great pictures and writeup John. Thanks for the education.
Tony Perrone and John Bono reacted