AUSSIE GROUP J RACER TO BE AUCTIONED IN THE USA

Combining a Fiat chassis with a de Havilland aircraft engine, the Gipsy Fiat is a relatively recent creation, but is inspired by the classic aero-engined racers of the 1920s, like 'Chitty Bang Bang', 'Babs' and the Parry-Thomas special.

Powerplant is a 1929 de Havilland 'Gipsy Major' 6.2 litre 4 cylinder, an air-cooled inline engine used in the famous Tiger Moth biplane and a number of other de Havilland light aircraft throughout the 1930s.

A C1920s Fiat 501 donated its chassis, shortened and underslung in this application, along with the steering, while the gearbox is from a 1927 Buick, with a 1929 Chrysler providing various other components. Suspension is parallel leaf spring front and rear with Hartford-style friction disc shock absorbers.

All running gear is pre-1930, which made the Gipsy Fiat eligible for CAMS (Confederation of Australian Motor Sport) Group J competition upon its completion.

The Fiat radiator surround has been combined with a custom open body, which includes a 'bubble' fairing for the offset driver's position, with the whole lot finished to an impressive standard. 'Repurposing' the running board guards to wrap over the engine cowling is a particularly clever detail.

Fully documented by CAMS, the Gipsy Fiat was raced for a number of years at historic race meetings like the Philip Island Classic, Historic Winton and others at Sydney's Eastern Creek track.

After being campaigned in Australia for some years, the Gipsy Fiat was sold to a buyer in the USA for an undisclosed sum in 2011. In the US, the Gipsy Fiat was apparently exhibited at vintage aircraft museums and exercised on vintage aircraft show days.

Described as a major drawcard every time it competes at historic race meetings, the car comes with its historical log book and is in compliance with all rules and regulations for worldwide vintage racing.

The 130hp Gipsy motor has been completely rebuilt. The car also comes with the original care and maintenance manual and complete detailed instructions for the care and running of the car.

Offered at No Reserve, the Gipsy Fiat is also being sold on a Bill of Sale, which means it isn't road registerable.

Barrett-Jackson's massive Scottsdale, Arizona, auction runs from January 12 to 19, 2014. The Gipsy Fiat is scheduled to cross the blocks on Thursday, January 16. Maybe the Gipsy Fiat will come 'back home' this January!

For further details, go to: www.barrett-jackson.com