Description
The Autobianchi Bianchina Transformabile, introduced in 1957, was the first model in the Bianchina lineup, and it embodied a unique blend of compact practicality and stylish design. Based on the Fiat 500’s platform, the Transformabile was essentially a city car with a semi-convertible roof, making it ideal for those who wanted the freedom of open-air driving in a small and fashionable package. This model featured a roll-back fabric top, which could be retracted while leaving the side pillars and frame intact, giving it the name “Transformabile” (Italian for “convertible”).
Under the hood, the Bianchina Transformabile was equipped with a 479 cc, two-cylinder air-cooled engine borrowed from the Fiat 500. Initially, this engine produced 15 horsepower, which was modest but sufficient for a car designed to navigate city streets and short trips. Despite its small engine, the car’s light weight allowed it to reach speeds of around 90 km/h (56 mph), making it suitable for urban driving and even brief highway excursions. As the years went on, the engine was upgraded to a 499 cc version with 18 horsepower, providing a slight boost in performance.
The design of the Autobianchi Bianchina Transformabile was a key factor in its popularity. It featured a more refined and upscale look compared to the Fiat 500, with chrome accents, two-tone paint options, and a distinctive, elegant body shape that set it apart. Its stylish exterior was complemented by a neatly designed interior, with better materials and more attention to comfort than the more utilitarian Fiat. The dashboard was simple but functional, with the essential controls and instruments positioned for ease of use.
The Bianchina Transformabile was aimed at urbanites who wanted more than just a functional car—they wanted something with a sense of fun and style. The semi-convertible roof added a level of sophistication and enjoyment, making it perfect for those looking to enjoy city drives with a touch of sunshine. The car’s compact dimensions, chic appearance, and convertible roof made it a hit among young professionals and fashionable city dwellers, particularly in Italy.
Over the years, the Transformabile evolved with minor updates to its mechanics and design, but it remained true to its original concept: a small, stylish, and fun car. Today, the Autobianchi Bianchina Transformabile is a beloved classic, cherished by collectors for its charm, rarity, and its representation of the optimistic post-war era in Italy.