Basic Information and History

This is not just a car – it is a creative tribute to 1920s racing. The unique 1929 FIAT 321C (actually 521C) – better known as "Flying Fiona" – is a rolling work of art, hand-built and sculpted to capture the spirit of classic Italian race cars and hot rods. The model itself is rare – and this particular example is truly one of a kind, as authorities mistakenly registered the car as a "321C," making it the only one in the world!

The car is officially registered as a modified vehicle, model year 1929, with a newly built body by the current owner and a modified chassis. Under the hood sits a Chevrolet 230 straight-six – an engine that delivers the right sound, the right feel, and that little extra thrill you expect from a surviving late-1920s racing machine.

The chassis began its life in Örebro in 1929 as a passenger car. Already in 1936, the original vehicle was scrapped and purchased by the grandfather of the then-owner to be converted into a trailer for the tractor. There it sat, untouched, on the same farm for over 70 years until the current owner discovered it around 15–16 years ago. By that time, no traces remained of the original engine or body.

With great passion and artistic drive, "Fiona" was rebuilt from the ground up over a ten-year period – everything is either restored or newly fabricated to give an authentic, patinated, and well-used racing feel. The paint is intentionally aged to create the illusion of a heavily used race car. The current odometer reading is 27,766 km (total mileage since 1929 unknown).

The car is used regularly and has become something of a local celebrity at car events, having even won awards at Elmia. It is definitely not for those who want to remain discreet – but a natural companion for anyone who wants to turn heads and celebrate automotive history in a personal and creative way.

Flying Fiona carries the motto: WHEN PASSION MEETS INSPIRATION, AN OBSESSION IS BORN.

Equipment and Options

1. Newly built body (hand-shaped) by the current owner
2. Modified chassis for improved strength and balance
3. Chevrolet 230 straight-six
4. Racing-inspired bodywork with intentional patination
5. Wicker driver’s seat (with some wear and patina)
6. Hand-picked interior details in classic style
7. Extra cushion for long drives
8. Small glass windshield (cracked for authentic vintage look)
9. Consistently aged and modified details for an authentic racing feel
10. Partially modified electrical system (brake light malfunctioning, fuse trips when activated)

Condition

Body and Exterior:

Professionally repainted a few years ago, then consistently faux-patinated for an authentic racing look. Dents, scratches, cracks, and minor rust are all part of the artistic expression. Door panels and entry areas are deliberately "worn" for the right feel. Glass: only a small deflector windshield (cracked).

Interior:

Intentionally worn and patinated. Wicker driver’s seat shows some damage; other parts are assembled from selected vintage elements. No headliner. Controls are functional, surfaces intentionally worn.

Tires and Wheels:

Rear tires are worn and should be replaced before further driving. Front tires also worn from spirited use. Front wheels are slightly oval and should be straightened/balanced for comfort above 110 km/h; one is welded. Rear wheels feel okay during driving.

Mechanics and Function:

Chevrolet 230 straight-six – not fully rebuilt but with new ignition and starter motor. Engine has always had a slight ticking from one of the valve lifters; seller is unsure if this is normal for this engine. Minor oil seepage. Brakes fully replaced five years ago (occasionally need adjustment). Rear axle completely rebuilt; gearbox not rebuilt. Steering rack has started to develop play. Electrical issue with brake light. Only the speedometer and oil pressure gauge are connected; other instruments have never been hooked up and their function is unknown. All warning lights, including high beam and charging lamps, work correctly. The car lacks a horn and muffler – these were only installed for inspection.

Service History

Last service performed in July 2024. No previous service records or receipts exist, as the entire car is an ongoing restoration and build project. Brakes were fully replaced five years ago. Last passed inspection in June 2022.

Summary

Flying Fiona is not for those seeking catalog originality – but for anyone who celebrates history, creativity, and automotive artistry. This award-winning, hand-built, and personally interpreted vehicle was created from the remains of a 1929 FIAT and transformed into a raw and bold tribute to 1920s racing dreams.

With its newly built body, modified chassis, incorrectly spelled model designation, and Chevrolet 230 straight-six under the hood, she is as much a statement of personality as a car. Here, you get a vehicle that lives and breathes the 1920s – in her own, unmistakable way.